COLLEGE BOUND ACTION PLANS
(Taken from http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/starting-points/index.html)
Use this Action Plan Builder to create a college prep plan just for you!
General Action Plan Information
Freshman:
Learn about Colleges
- Learn about college costs and how financial aid works.
- Use the College Savings Calculator to see how much money you'll need for college, whether you're on track to save enough, and what you need to do to reach your goal. Talk to your family about college financing.
- Visit colleges while they're in session.
- Find out about college firsthand from friends who are home for the holidays.
Prepare for Tests
- Talk to your counselor and teachers about taking SAT Subject Tests™ in your strong subjects this spring. Take Subject Tests such as World History, Biology E/M and Chemistry while the material is still fresh in your mind.
Sophomores:
Prepare for Tests
- Use the access code on your PSAT/NMSQT score report to sign in to My College QuickStart™. With this personalized planning kit, you can prepare for the SAT using a study plan based on your PSAT/NMSQT results and explore lists of suggested colleges, majors and careers.
- Talk to your counselor and teachers about taking SAT Subject Tests™ in your strong subjects this spring. Take Subject Tests such as World History, Biology E/M and Chemistry while the material is still fresh in your mind.
Learn about Colleges
- Learn about college costs and how financial aid works.
- Use the College Savings Calculator to see how much money you'll need for college, whether you're on track to save enough, and what you need to do to reach your goal. Talk to your family about college financing.
- Visit colleges while they're in session.
- Find out about college firsthand from friends who are home for the holidays.
Juniors:
Get Ready for the SAT
- Use the access code on your PSAT/NMSQT score report to sign in to My College QuickStart™. With this personalized planning kit, you can prepare for the SAT using a study plan based on your PSAT/NMSQT results and explore lists of suggested colleges, majors and careers.
- Prepare for the SAT by taking a free full-length official practice test. Then get a score and skills report. Learn which skills you need to improve. Be sure to sign up for The Official SAT Question of the Day™ for daily practice.
Schedule Your Spring Testing
- You can take either the SAT® or up to three SAT Subject Tests™ on one test day. Plan your testing schedule carefully if you want to take both, and register for two separate test dates. See the SAT schedule of test dates and register online for the SAT.
Seniors:
Review Application Details
- Most regular applications are due between January 1 and February 15. Keep copies of everything you send to colleges.
- Have your high school send your transcript to colleges.
- Contact colleges to make sure they've received all application materials.
Apply for Financial Aid
- You and your family should save this year's pay stubs to estimate income on aid forms that you'll file early next year.
- Submit your FAFSA as soon after January 1 as possible. Men who are 18 years of age or older must register with Selective Service to receive federal financial aid.
- Many priority financial aid deadlines fall in February. To get the most attractive award package, apply by the priority date. Keep copies of everything you send.
