Stay on Schedule

The following schedule is a compilation of suggestions from the book Free $ For College For
Dummies by David Rosen and Caryn Mladen (2003).   The timeline is just a framework; you 
should fill in more details as you learn more about what your specific colleges need.  Don't 
panic if you haven't accomplished your goals in the suggested period!  Unless a definite 
deadline has passed, you can still get it done.

Summer Before Your Senior Year

• Decide which scholarships you will apply for and make a list of what is needed for each
• Make a folder of scholarship items "...including your applications; bio and resume;
       various essays; cover letters; sample recommendation letters; documentation proving
       your ethnic heritage, disability or other significant factor; and compile your (and
       your family's) financial information.  Where appropriate, prepare your portfolio, athletic
       video or other entrance materials."
• If you're hoping for an athletic scholarship, consider attending camps and clinics to get noticed.
• Check on residency requirements if you need in-state status.  Many states require that
       you live in the state for at least one year to qualify.

Senior Year - First Semester

• Take AP courses and, if necessary, retake the ACT and SAT tests.
• Ask your sources for letters of recommendation for scholarships or applications.  Keep your 
       scholarship deadlines in mind; some are due at the first of the term.
• Request college applications; you will apply in October or November.  When you apply, 
       request financial aid.  Also apply for departmental scholarships.
• If you're considering early decision, be sure you have discussed financial aid options with 
       those schools. 
• You should hear from college coaches if you're going to get an athletic scholarship.
• Deadline for ROTC applications is November 15; you should hear back by January 1
• Don't forget to have your income taxes done as early as possible in order to be ready to
       apply for FAFSA
• If you're a male, register for Selective Service when you reach 18.

Senior Year - Second Semester

• Fill out your FAFSA form as early as possible but no earlier than January 1st.  Tennessee's
       deadline is May 1st, the federal deadline is June 30th.  There is no need to wait on 
       income tax submissions, you can estimate your income and then make corrections on 
       your SAR later.
• Send needed materials to your college financial aid offices.
• Apply for all private scholarships by February 15th.  Confirm that the applications arrived.
• Take AP and CLEP exams
• You should receive acceptances from your colleges.  Don't reply until you receive your
       financial aid packages from each school, then make your choice and notify the school.
       Accept awards right away and at least a week before their deadline.  Notify the colleges
       you did not choose that you won't be attending.
• Send thank-you notes to everyone who helped you and to any organizations that gave you
       awards or scholarships.  You may also want to thank some organizations that considered 
       you but did not give you an award.