Your complete college checklist: Year-by-year guide to getting ready

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Key takeaways about college planning

Start planning early to avoid last-minute stress.
Follow this year-by-year checklist to stay organized.
Prep for major moments like the SAT/ACT, FAFSA^®, and Decision Day.
Explore colleges, career interests, and scholarships before senior year.
Use tools like Scholly Scholarships and Scout College Search to make planning easier.

Start planning early with this college checklist

College planning can feel like a lot, but breaking it into yearly steps makes it manageable. This checklist takes you from your first year of high school to your first year on campus. You’ll know what to do—and when—so can stay confident you're on the right track.

Freshman year of high school: Lay the foundation

Ninth grade is the right time to start building habits that will help later. This year is about getting comfortable with high school expectations while discovering your interests. Focus on doing well in class and finding things you enjoy outside of school.

Meet with your counselor to plan a four-year course schedule based on your goals.
Build strong study habits—grades start counting for real this year!
Join clubs, sports, or volunteer programs that spark your interest.
Explore career options through electives or shadowing.
Learn the basics of college planning, including key tests like the PSAT and SAT.

Pro tip: Start a “college folder” in your email or Google Drive to save report cards, awards, and volunteer records.

Sophomore year of high school: Explore and grow

This is the year to dig deeper. You’ve settled into high school and now you can challenge yourself in class and beyond. It's a great time to think about your future and what kind of college experience you want.

Checklist:

Take the PSAT to get a feel for standardized testing.
Enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) or honors classes if you're ready.
Stay active in activities and clubs and try leadership roles.
Research different college types (big vs. small, urban vs. rural, etc.).
Start a resume or activity list for when you apply to colleges or scholarships.

Pro tip: Use a spreadsheet or notes app to track your academic and extracurricular progress.

Junior year of high school: Serious prep begins

Junior year is a big one. You’ll begin standardized testing, build your college list, and narrow down the direction you want to take. Don’t wait until senior year—what you do now sets the stage for everything that follows.

Checklist:

Take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall to get considered for National Merit scholarships.
Start prepping for the SAT or ACT and schedule your test.
Start your college search. Explore colleges by size, location, costs, and more with Scout College Search by Sallie.
Visit colleges in person or online to see what the vibe is like.
Create a list of colleges and majors you're considering.
Talk with your family about how you'll pay for college.
Start college essay drafts during the summer.

Pro tip: Use a shared Google Calendar with your family to track test dates, college visits, and application deadlines.

Senior year of high school: Apply and decide

This is when it all comes together. Senior year moves fast, and deadlines come quicker than expected. By fall, you should be applying to colleges and financial aid. Spring brings decision letters, scholarship offers, and your final college choice.

Checklist:

Decide which colleges you're applying to.
Request letters of recommendation as early as possible.
Submit SAT/ACT scores (if required).
Write and polish your college essays.
Decide if you want to apply to any schools early action or early decision.
Complete and submit your college applications.
Prepare for college interviews if required.
Submit the FAFSA^® as soon as it opens, usually October 1.
Apply for scholarships (use Scholly Scholarships to find ones that fit you best).
Review acceptance letters and financial aid packages.
Make your choice by May 1 (College Decision Day) and submit your enrollment deposit.

Pro tip: Don't just wait around to hear back from schools. Check out ways you can get ready for college and your future.

Summer before college: Get ready for the transition

This summer is about preparing for your new adventure. You'll shop, pack, and maybe work a summer job, but it’s also a chance to mentally prepare for life on your own. Use this time to get organized, rest up, and spend time with family and friends.

Checklist:

Buy dorm supplies, tech gear, and class essentials.
Register for college orientation and select your fall classes.
Connect with your roommate and discuss shared items.
Review tuition bills and confirm your financial aid award.
Make sure your student account is settled by the school's deadline.
Learn basic adulting skills like laundry, cooking, and budgeting.

Pro tip: Make a college packing list early, and shop in stages to avoid last-minute stress.

Freshman year of college: Settle in and thrive

College life kicks off fast, but don’t worry—every first-year student is adjusting, too. Orientation, Welcome Week, and campus events help you find your place and meet people. Stay on top of classes, explore new interests, and keep checking in with your goals.

Checklist

Attend freshman orientation and Welcome Week.
Join at least one club or student organization.
Look for a part-time job if you need to. Apply for work-study jobs if that's part of your financial aid.
Meet with your academic advisor to plan spring courses.
Check deadlines for spring registration and campus housing.
File the Renewal FAFSA^® to get aid for sophomore year.
Explore study abroad, internships, or campus jobs for summer or next year.

Pro tip: Get to know student support services—tutoring, mental health, and advising are all there to help you succeed.

Key deadlines to know

Add these key dates to your calendar early and set reminders so you stay ahead.

October 1: FAFSA^® opens
October–November: Early application deadlines
January–February: Regular application deadlines
May 1: College Decision Day
May: AP Exams
Spring–Summer before college: Orientation and class registration:

Pro tip: Check each college’s website for their specific deadlines—they can vary a lot.

College checklist FAQs

When should I start planning for college?

It’s best to start during your freshman year of high school. You’ll have more time to explore and prepare without feeling rushed.

How many colleges should I apply to?

Most students apply to 6–10 schools—a mix of safety, match, and reach schools. Here's what that means:

Safety is where your grades and test scores are stronger than what they usually admit, so you’re very likely to get in.
Match is one where you line up with the average accepted student, giving you a solid chance.
Reach is more competitive—maybe your dream school!—where even strong students might not be guaranteed admission.

Do I need to take the SAT or ACT?

Many colleges are test-optional, but some still require scores. Check the testing policy for each school on your list.

Stay on track with Sallie

Wherever you are in your college timeline, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead. Use our resources to make smart choices, find financial support, and feel confident about your future.