Getting into college — and paying for it — involves a lot of moving parts. If you’re not sure where to start or when to tackle each step, you’re not alone. Here’s a breakdown of what to do and when to do it.
9th and 10th Grade: Build Your Foundation
College preparation starts earlier than most students realize. In 9th and 10th grade, focus on building strong study habits, getting involved in extracurriculars, and maintaining your GPA. These years lay the groundwork for a competitive application later.
Some students begin exploring colleges as early as sophomore year. Browse school websites, follow colleges on social media, and note programs or campuses that interest you.
11th Grade: Test Prep and Serious Research
Junior year is when preparation shifts into high gear. Register for and take the SAT or ACT — most students take their first attempt in the spring of 11th grade, leaving room for retakes if needed. Many colleges are test-optional, but strong scores can strengthen your application or open up merit scholarship opportunities.
Alongside test prep, begin researching colleges in earnest. Visit campuses in person or virtually and attend college fairs. Start thinking about the criteria that matter most to you: size, location, academic programs, cost, and culture.
Some schools also offer optional or required interviews, so reach out to admissions offices to learn what each school expects.
Spring of 11th Grade: Start Scholarship Research
Don’t wait until senior year to look for scholarships. Many deadlines fall in early senior year or even late junior year. Research scholarships through your school’s guidance office, local organizations, and scholarship databases. Note eligibility requirements and deadlines so you’re ready to apply when the time comes.
Summer Before Senior Year: Finalize Your College List
Use the summer before 12th grade to finalize your list of schools. Aim for a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. If you haven’t visited campuses yet, try to squeeze in tours before fall. This is also a good time to start drafting personal essays and gathering letters of recommendation.
Fall of 12th Grade: Apply to Colleges and File the FAFSA
Most college applications are due between November and January, with early decision and early action deadlines typically falling in November. Submit your applications as early as you can. Rushing at the last minute increases the chance of errors.
You’ll also want to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it opens, which is typically October 1. The federal deadline typically falls on June 30 of the academic year, but many states and schools award financial aid on a first-come, first-served basis, so filing early gives you a meaningful advantage. You’ll need your tax information on hand, and also your parent’s, if applicable.
This is also prime time to apply for scholarships you’ve been researching. Keep a spreadsheet of deadlines and required materials so nothing slips through the cracks.
Winter and Spring of 12th Grade: Review Decisions and Financial Aid Offers
Admissions decisions typically arrive between December for early applicants and April for regular decisions. As acceptance letters roll in, so will financial aid award letters. Read each one carefully to get information about grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans you may be eligible for.
Also, be sure to compare offers across schools. If a package falls short, contact the financial aid office. Many schools will consider an appeal, especially if you have a competing offer or a change in financial circumstances.
May 1: Commit and Address Funding Gaps
Most schools set May 1 as the national commitment deadline. Once you’ve chosen your school, pay your enrollment deposit and complete any required housing forms.
If there’s a gap between your financial aid package and the cost of attendance, address it promptly. Federal student loans typically come with lower interest rates and more flexible repayment terms than private loans.
If federal aid doesn’t cover everything, private student loans can help fill the gap. ELFI offers student and parent loan options designed to help bridge the difference between financial aid and the total cost of attendance.
Each Academic Year: Renew Your Financial Aid
Financial aid doesn’t renew automatically. File the FAFSA again each year to maintain eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study. Scholarships may also have renewal requirements, such as maintaining a minimum GPA or submitting an annual application. Check the terms of each award so you’re not caught off guard.
Staying on top of renewals each year ensures your funding stays in place throughout your college career.
