As juniors and seniors are approaching the peak of their high school careers, they have to start thinking of the future. For many, that involves the topic of college. To aid you in your application process, I have created a list of the top seven things one will need to successfully apply for college and financial aid.

1. Make a list of all the colleges you want to apply to. Be sure you know which ones have application fees and which ones don’t. Also keep in mind that applying for colleges can get really pricy, so only apply for a college if you can genuinely see yourself attending.
2. Be sure you know the dates for early admission. Some colleges offer this as an option for those wanting to be in higher consideration for admission and scholarships. It’s okay to not make the early admission deadline, but it could be a helpful factor.
3. Be sure to have your FAFSA filled out! Colleges will ask for it, and it would be convenient if you already had it completed during the application process.
4. Go ahead and get your transcripts. They’re $2, and you can get them in the main counseling office. Colleges will definitely ask for these, no matter where you attend.
5. Be constantly working on your applications. Filling these out is a long and tedious process that will feel never-ending if you wait and do it all in one go.
6. Keep a close eye on the date of the deadline.  DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE. If there’s anything you need to not procrastinate on, it’s definitely these.
7. Go ahead and turn in your application at the very least a week before the deadline. You’ll feel so much more at ease.

This process will end, even though it may feel never ending. When it’s all done, all you can do is take a deep breath and wait to hear the status of your admission. Good luck!