Check deadlines for college admissions applications and get them in early
December
Visit www.pin.ed.gov, register for a PIN, and have a parent do the same. Using this number makes the federal financial aid application process much quicker and easier.
Urge your parents to file their taxes as soon as possible.
February
Watch for the email that will let you know that your Student Aid Report (SAR) is ready.
Your SAR lists the FAFSA information you provided. Review it carefully for errors.
March
Rank your top college choices.
Your financial aid award letters will come soon.
Think about where you want to work this summer.
April
Make your final college decision.
Notify the colleges you have chosen not to attend.
Plan now for registration, orientation, and housing.
May
Line up a summer job.
Plan to save part of each paycheck for the costs of college.
June
Attend orientation and registration
Follow up with the college financial aid office to make sure all of your financial aid paperwork is complete.