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Your senior year checklist

1. Get ready to apply

Set yourself up for success by learning what you need to know and getting ready to apply early.

• Attend informational events like college fairs: If you haven't already, plan to attend college fairs to learn about schools you're interested in.
• Visit school websites: Explore the IU Bloomington site to learn about life at IU, including academic opportunities, campus life, career preparation, and how to make the most of your time in Bloomington.
• Finalize your apply list: Compile the list of schools you want to apply to, including their application deadlines and requirements
• Research test requirements: Learn which schools are test-optional and which require test scores to apply. Then, take the SAT and/or ACT if you need scores or would like to have them considered.

2. Gather your materials and start your applications

Get a head start by working on your materials and applications as soon as possible.

• Request letters of recommendation: If you need letters of recommendation, ask for them early. Your recommenders may be receiving many requests.
• Gather all application materials.
• Write your college application essays early: Learn the essay requirements for the schools you're applying to and write them as early as possible. Then, revise them until they are the best they can be.
• Submit your applications as soon as you're ready: Some schools have early decision or early action deadlines that give Ï㽶ÊÓƵs the highest scholarship consideration.
• Fill out and submit the FAFSA: The application opens December 1. The FAFSA is an important part of scholarships at many schools, including scholarships at IU Bloomington.

3. Finish your senior year strong

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of planning for college, but you should remember to keep working hard in your senior classes as you wait for application responses.

• Keep up your good work in high school throughout the year: Your college of choice will want to see your final transcript after you graduate.
• Review credit opportunities: If you’d like to, take AP exams in the spring for the opportunity to earn college credit. If you’re interested in credits at IU, explore our website to learn more about advanced placement, course credit, and course exemptions, as well as .
• Note important deadlines: Know when to expect a response from each of the schools you applied to.

4. Make your college decisions and reserve your space

Consider your options to make the most informed decision possible.

• Compare costs: For schools you’ve been admitted to, compare financial aid packages and costs of attendance to understand your options.
• Visit campuses: If possible, visit schools you’ve been admitted to so that you can find the right fit.
• Choose your college: Pick the school that best fits your goals, and make a plan that works for you and your family. 
• Reserve your space: The final deadline for enrollment deposits is May 1. Please note that the IU enrollment deposit is nonrefundable and will be credited toward your first-semester tuition expenses.
• Make friends before you arrive: Start connecting with other admitted Ï㽶ÊÓƵs at events and through online platforms.