College Planning Checklist
The college planning process is no doubt lengthily and complicated. As it takes a great deal of ambition, organization and punctuality, it is necessary to have a good understanding of the process. Read the checklists below to make sure you stay on track. From deciding on which college you or your son/daughter wants to attend, to getting an apartment, this article aims to take you through the process without forgetting any details.
 Did you know? It could cost a student LESS to go to a private school verses a public school? Each college and university has their own budget for grants. Most private schools offer more money for students they want to attend.
College Considerations
▪ location (near home, long-distance)
▪ cost (both in-state and out-of state, classes, fees, housing)
▪ available majors and areas of specialization
▪ distinctions and awards
▪ size and makeup of student body
▪ entrance requirements
▪ academic record of incoming freshmen and graduates
▪ extra-curricular and campus activities
▪ financial aid options and scholarships
Financial Aid Tips
▪ initially, don't rule schools out because of cost
▪ more expensive schools often give more financial aid
▪ research school-based scholarships and grants
▪ research options based on gender, major, ethnicity, etc.
▪ research scholarships, grants, and work study
▪ begin applying for scholarships as you send in admissions
▪ the FAFSA (Free Application For Student Aid) determines eligibility
▪ file the FAFSA as soon as possible after Jan 1 of your senior year
▪ 4-6 weeks after submitting, you will receive Student Aid Report
▪ SAR summarizes your info and Expected Family Contribution
▪ if you are asked for, you will need to submit W-2's and 1099's
▪ apply for student loans if still need assistance
▪ may receive your first bill for tuition before school starts
▪ ask about payment plans for first payment, rather than lump sum
▪ you will need to reapply for financial aid each year
Junior Year
▪ talk to your guidance counselor about entrance requirements
▪ review your current studies and plan for appropriate senior classes
▪ begin thinking about what majors and careers interest you
▪ decide on a list of schools that meet your personal criteria
▪ request detailed info rmation and applications for each school
▪ set up a "college info rmation" file for each school
▪ include checklists for each school's application requirements
▪ make copies of applications and file before submitting
▪ keep copies of all correspondence in college file
▪ schedule appointments for open houses and visits with college reps
▪ pick your first date to take the SAT / ACT (April, May, or June)
▪ plan appointments to visit your top two or three college campuses
▪ start working out a realistic college budget
▪ examine your funding sources and start researching financial aid
Senior Year
▪ request letters of recommendation from teachers, etc.
▪ begin working on your essay
▪ put together your personal and academic resume
▪ request transcripts from guidance office
▪ begin applying the day after Labor Day
▪ develop a time table of admissions deadlines
▪ obtain scholarship and financial aid info rmation (including FAFSA)
▪ mail off FAFSA form by January 1
▪ send out financial aid applications right after first of year
▪ schedule college and scholarship interviews as required
▪ add interview dates to your time table
▪ make your final selection and accept college and financial aid offer
▪ info rm all colleges of your decision
▪ talk to representative of chosen college about housing and classes
Before Leaving Home
▪ get copies of vital records (birth certificate, SS card, etc.)
▪ update your address book and list of birthdays
▪ get copies of medical / dental insurance, records, and prescriptions
▪ verify coverage and claim procedures if out of state
▪ check parent's homeowners insurance for coverage policies
▪ get copies of warranties for electronics, computer, and appliances
▪ open a checking account near campus and order checks
▪ set up a cell phone and / or long-distance plan
▪ set up internet and email address (if not provided by school)
▪ pack up off-season clothes to be shipped or picked up later
▪ pack clothes and living necessities for your new dorm / apartment
Dorm Necessities
▪ backpack or book bag
▪ bathroom supplies (towels, toilet paper, shower curtain, etc.)
▪ bedding (sheets, pillows, comforter, blankets, etc.)
▪ books and magazines
▪ camera and film
▪ cleaning supplies
▪ clock radio, desk lamp, and a fan
▪ closet supplies (hangers, belt rack, over door storage, etc.)
▪ clothing (including appropriate winter wear and rain wear)
▪ computer equipment (including ink cartridges, paper, and supplies)
▪ cork board and / or dry erase board
▪ decorating items (pillows, accent rug, pictures, etc.)
▪ desk organizer, school supplies, mailing supplies
▪ dictionary and thesaurus
▪ electronics (calculator, PDA, mini cassette recorder, etc.)
▪ extension cords and adapters
▪ first aid, sewing, and shoe care kits
▪ flashlight and extra batteries
▪ games (board, computer, video, etc.)
▪ kitchen supplies (dishes, cooking, and food)
▪ laundry supplies (basket, drying rack, detergent, iron, etc.)
▪ luggage
▪ microwave and small refrigerator with freezer
▪ phone card and lots of quarters for laundry
▪ stereo, TV, VCR, etc.
▪ telephone and answering machine
▪ toiletries and prescription medications
▪ tool kit
▪ trash can and bags
▪ umbrella
▪ wall calendar and portable planner
Looking for an apartment
▪ date of availability and requirements to reserve
▪ length of lease and penalties for breaking
▪ deposit and pet deposit
▪ rent amount, date due, and late charges
▪ utilities included
▪ rules about pets and subletting
▪ number of bedrooms and baths
▪ amenities (fireplace, balcony, laundry facilities, etc.)
▪ pool and recreational facilities
▪ appliances (dishwasher, garbage disposal, microwave, etc.)
▪ additional storage space
▪ safety features
▪ public transportation options
▪ feel of the neighborhood
▪ proximity to shopping, school, work, etc.
▪ internet and satellite dish hookup
Content provided in part by Online Organizing.
Read Related Articles:
The Basics of College Admissions
Financial Aid Basics
What is Need Based Financial Aid?
What is Merit Based Financial Aid?
Using a Professional for College Planning
How Financial Aid Works- a Real Life Scenario
The Facts on the FAFSA
How Do College Students Get Insurance?
College Planning Checklist
SAT Prep
Estimated Family Contribution
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