Month-by-Month College Prep Timeline for Juniors and Seniors
The college admissions process isn’t a one-week sprint—it’s a marathon.
Starting early and breaking tasks into monthly goals makes the journey much smoother (and a lot less stressful).
Here’s your month-by-month guide for junior and senior year so you can stay ahead and feel confident.
📅 Junior Year
August – September
Meet with your school counselor to review graduation requirements.
Start exploring potential majors and careers.
Join or continue meaningful extracurricular activities.
Sign up for the PSAT/NMSQT (important for National Merit consideration).
October
Take the PSAT/NMSQT.
Visit local colleges or attend virtual tours.
Start a running list of schools you might apply to.
November – December
Review your first-quarter grades and set academic goals.
Research summer enrichment or internship opportunities.
Begin light SAT/ACT prep.
January – February
Take a practice SAT/ACT to set a baseline score.
Research test-optional policies for your target schools.
Start compiling a résumé of activities, awards, and leadership roles.
March – April
Register for SAT/ACT (spring or early summer test date).
Visit more colleges during spring break.
Explore scholarships that open early.
May – June
Take AP exams (if applicable).
Sit for the SAT/ACT if ready.
Finalize summer plans (internships, programs, volunteering).
📅 Senior Year
August
Finalize your college list (reach, match, safety schools).
Begin your Common App or Coalition App profile.
Draft your personal statement.
Confirm which schools have Early Action/Early Decision deadlines.
September
Request letters of recommendation.
Finalize personal statement and start supplemental essays.
Register for final SAT/ACT if needed.
Attend college fairs and info sessions.
October
Submit FAFSA and CSS Profile (as early as Oct 1).
Submit Early Action/Early Decision applications if applying.
Continue editing Regular Decision essays.
November
Wrap up Early Action/Early Decision submissions.
Apply for local and national scholarships.
Double-check all materials in application portals.
December
Receive Early Action/Early Decision results.
Submit final Regular Decision applications.
January – February
Send any updated transcripts or scores.
Apply for scholarships with spring deadlines.
Prepare for possible interviews.
March – April
Review and compare financial aid packages.
Attend admitted student events.
Make your final college choice by May 1.
May – June
Submit housing and deposit forms.
Thank teachers and mentors who helped.
Celebrate—you did it!
🧭 Final Thoughts from College Refocus
Following a timeline removes the guesswork from college prep.
Breaking the process into small, monthly tasks keeps you organized, confident, and ahead of the competition.
🎯 Call to Action
Want a personalized college prep calendar based on your goals?
📅 Book a Planning Session with College Refocus and get a month-by-month plan tailored just for you.