What High School Seniors Need to Do at the End of Senior Year for College Admissions

As senior year winds down, it’s easy to shift your focus to graduation parties, summer plans, and the excitement of college life ahead. But before you toss your cap in the air, there are a few important steps every senior needs to complete to stay on track for college success.

Here’s what you need to do at the end of senior year to finish strong:

1. Commit to a College

By May 1 (National College Decision Day), most students must notify their chosen college of their decision.

• Submit your enrollment deposit on time.

• Officially accept your offer and carefully read any next steps the college sends you.

• If you're on a waitlist somewhere else, still commit to one school while you wait.

  
  

2. Send Your Final Transcript

Colleges require a final official high school transcript showing your graduation and final grades.

• Request it from your school counseling office.

• Make sure it gets sent before your college’s deadline (usually early summer).

  
  

3. Thank Your Supporters

Take the time to personally thank teachers, counselors, coaches, and anyone who helped you through the admissions process — especially those who wrote letters of recommendation.

A simple note or email goes a long way and shows your appreciation.

4. Complete Financial Aid Requirements

Even after you submit the FAFSA, colleges may need additional paperwork:

• Respond quickly to any verification requests.

• Accept or decline financial aid packages through your college portal.

• Complete any required forms for loans, grants, or scholarships.

• If you received scholarships from outside organizations, make sure to notify your college about them and give the organizations an address to send the funds.

  
  

5. Prepare for Housing and Orientation

Most colleges require you to:

• Submit housing applications and roommate requests.

• Explore Instagram accounts for the Class of 2029 specific to your college.

• Sign up for orientation programs that happen over the summer.

• Look out for Freshman Checklists in your portal or email.

• Complete any health forms (vaccination records, health insurance waivers, etc.).

• Check your new college email regularly so you don’t miss important updates!

  
  

6. Stay Focused in Class

Even after you’ve been accepted, colleges can rescind offers if your grades drop significantly.

• Finish your classes strong.

• Pass all required courses.

• Stay involved and show that you’re ready for the next step.

  
  

7. Register for Placement Tests (If Needed)

Some colleges require placement exams for math, English, or foreign languages.

• Sign up for and take these tests as soon as your college tells you to.

• Your scores may determine which courses you’ll take in your first semester.

  
  

8. Review and Accept Your Financial Plan

Work with your family to:

• Review tuition bills and payment plans.

• Confirm how you’ll cover costs (scholarships, savings, loans).

• Budget for college essentials like textbooks, travel, dorm supplies, and meals.

  
  

9. Celebrate — But Stay Safe

You’ve worked hard to get here. Celebrate your achievements, but make smart choices during graduation parties, senior trips, and summer activities.

Remember: your college journey is just beginning!

10. Start Preparing for College Life

• Learn basic life skills (laundry, cooking, budgeting).

• Get your technology ready (laptop, chargers, software).

  
  

Congratulations, Class of 2025! - The future you’ve worked for is right around the corner!