The Parent's Complete College Planning Checklist
Everything you need to do, grade by grade, deadline by deadline.
Start a college savings conversation with your family
Explore extracurricular activities and interests
Set up a GPA tracking system
Research college types: community, state, private, trade
Take the PSAT for practice
Visit at least 2 college campuses
Begin volunteering or community service
Create a preliminary college list (10-15 schools)
Register for SAT/ACT and prep courses
Narrow college list to 8-10 schools
Request letters of recommendation
Start college essays and personal statements
Attend college fairs and information sessions
Research scholarship opportunities
Submit FAFSA on October 1st
Complete all college applications by deadlines
Apply for scholarships weekly
Compare financial aid award letters
Submit enrollment deposit by May 1st
Complete housing applications
Download the Full 47-Point Checklist (PDF)
Get the complete checklist with deadlines, tips, and a printable tracker you can stick on the fridge.
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