What High School Seniors Should Be Doing Right Now for the College Admissions Process

Senior year is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming when college applications enter the picture. Staying ahead of the game can reduce stress for both students and their families. There are key steps that every high school senior should take right now to stay organized, reduce stress, and put their strongest applications forward.

1. Finalize Your College List

By fall of senior year, your college list should be finished. Make sure you have:

• A balanced mix: reach, match, and likely schools

• Financial awareness: schools that fit your budget or offer strong aid

• Fit criteria: size, location, majors, culture, and opportunities that matter to you

As acceptances begin to come in, continue to refine.

2. Keep Track of All Deadlines

Every school has its own deadlines—early action, early decision, priority scholarship, honors college, and regular decision. Create a simple spreadsheet with:

• Application deadlines

• Required materials (essays, test scores, portfolios)

• Recommendation requirements

• Financial aid deadlines

  
  

3. Complete Your Supplemental Essays For Applications Not Yet Sent

Many colleges require additional essays—sometimes just one, sometimes several. Right now:

• Look up the supplements for each school on your list

• Group similar prompts to reuse material when appropriate

• Write strategically to show why you’re a great match for each school

These essays often carry just as much weight as your main personal statement.

4. Set Up and Monitor Your Portals and Email 

• After applying to each school, an email with be sent with instructions to set up a school-specific portal

• Monitor your portals to see if any documents or information is missing from your application

• Check your email daily for important messages from colleges

• Your portal is where you will receive most admissions decisions

  
  

5. Follow Up On Letters of Recommendation

Teachers and counselors get overwhelmed with requests, so we recommend asking teachers at the end of junior year. As a Senior, make sure to:

• Follow up with teachers and your school counselor and let them know if you are applying to any schools for early action or early decision

• Keep track of recommendation letters on your school system if they have one: Naviance, Scoir, Xello etc.

• Write a thank-you note to any teachers who wrote a letter for you

A thoughtful recommendation can highlight strengths you might not mention yourself.

6. Keep Your Grades Strong

Senior-year grades matter—sometimes a lot. Colleges will look at:

• Your first-semester transcript

• Your overall senior-year course rigor

• Any significant changes (good or bad) in academic performance

Stay consistent, and avoid “senior slide.”

7. Prepare for Financial Aid

Financial planning should happen alongside your applications. Seniors should:

• Gather documents for the FAFSA - It is now open for the Class of 2026

• Understand each school’s financial aid process

• Look for local and national scholarships

• Check priority scholarship deadlines—many come early

Understanding the financial side now can prevent surprises later.

8. Visit or Revisit Colleges (If Possible)

Fall is a great time to attend:

• Campus tours

• Open houses

• Virtual info sessions

• Department-specific events

These experiences can help clarify your final choices—and give you material for “Why This College?” essays.

9. Stay Organized and Take Care of Yourself

The admissions process is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep:

• A checklist

• A calendar

• A weekly routine for application work

  
  

And just as importantly—get sleep, eat well, and stay connected with friends and family. You’ll perform better when you’re balanced.