College Timeline

11th Grade: Fall
Begin research on colleges and universities. Discuss career aspirations and college plans with parents.

11th Grade: October
Consider taking the PSAT test. Those that test in the top 5% in the nation qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. This test can also be taken as a pre-test for the SAT, or for practice with college admission tests.

11th Grade: Spring
Conduct intensive college research. Visit colleges when they are in session. Attend college visits at East and college fairs (i.e. Xavier College Fair & Wisconsin Education Fair).

11th Grade: April to June
Take ACT/SAT/AP exams. Meet with college reps that visit the high school.

Summer
Request college applications from private colleges. UW applications are available online. Prepare the first draft of your admission essay. 

12th Grade: Fall
Secure letters of recommendation. Finish application essay or personal statement. Meet with college reps that visit the high school. Visit colleges and interview when possible. Take required ACT/SAT/SATII tests. Check scholarship lists throughout the year. Ask colleges about scholarship competition days. Complete college application and follow mailing directions. Attend financial aid presentations.

12th Grade: January
Complete taxes and financial aid forms.

12th Grade: Spring

Make final campus visits. Review financial aid and scholarship awards. Call admission or financial aid offices if you have questions. Finalize your college choice. Register for CLEP and/or AP exams.

12th Grade: By May 1
Notify all colleges to which you have been offered admission of your final college plans.

12th Grade: May

Take CLEP and/or AP exams. 

Login to Parchment and order final transcripts to be sent to the college of your choice after final grades are posted.