Senior year is here, which means the excitement, and nerves, have already started to kick in. Even though many college applications don’t open up until late August/early September, it’s never too early to start checking items off your ‘to do’ list. Here are four things you should be doing during the fall semester of senior year:
Start researching scholarships
FAFSA isn’t the only way you can get financial assistance for college! Pick up a scholarship book or browse the web for scholarships you can apply for. There are millions of dollars up for grabs as long as you’re willing to put in the work and apply. Some of them don’t even require an essay, making it even easier to obtain money to offset the cost of college. You can begin your search here.
Ask for letters of recommendation
Do you have a favorite teacher or club advisor? Consider asking them to write you a letter of recommendation that you can submit with your college applications. These letters will give colleges a sense of who you are, why you’ll be successful at their institution, and how you’ll contribute to the school community. Be sure that whoever you’re asking knows you well so they can confidently speak to your positive attributes and add a personal touch!
Sign up for the SAT and/or ACT
Even if you took these tests during the spring semester, it doesn’t hurt to take them at least one more time in the fall if you’re looking to improve your scores. And if you didn’t take the exams during your junior year, then you’ll need to sign up for one of testing dates as soon as possible. The earliest SAT testing date is August 24, and the earliest ACT testing date is September 14. If you’re looking for extra practice and prep material, check out the ACT/SAT prep course we offer here.
Sign up for a college course
Enrolling in a college class enables you to get a feel for the coursework while earning credit that, in many cases, can be transferred to whichever school you attend next fall. ASU Prep Digital students can enroll in university courses through Arizona State University at a discounted rate (or for free if they’re a full-time Arizona high school student). Check out the course catalog and find a class that matches your interests or potential college major!
