Your Senior Year Roadmap: Month-by-Month Guide to Staying on Track
Senior year is exciting, emotional, and honestly—overwhelming. Between college applications, scholarships, and trying to enjoy your final year of high school, it’s easy to feel stuck. This guide breaks everything down into small, manageable steps so you can move with confidence.
September: Start Strong
Create or finalize your college list
Meet with your school counselor
Brainstorm your personal statement
Organize deadlines in one place (Google Doc, Notion, or our K&E planner)
October: Financial Aid + Early Apps
Complete your FAFSA
Request recommendation letters
Draft and revise college essays
Begin submitting early applications
November: Final Push for Early Deadlines
Finalize every essay
Submit Early Action/Early Decision applications
Continue applying for scholarships weekly
December: Regular Decision Season
Submit all remaining applications
Double-check requirements on each portal
Prepare for midterms and winter break recharge
January: Get Organized Financially
Update FAFSA if needed
Apply for local and school-based scholarships
Request mid-year transcripts
February–March: Decisions Roll In
Read emails carefully
Compare financial aid packages
Make a pros/cons list for each school
April: Decision Month
Attend admitted student events
Ask questions about housing, support programs, and costs
Confirm your choice by the deadline
May–June: Celebrate + Prepare
Graduate!
Register for orientation
Send your final transcript to your chosen college
K&E Reminder: You don’t need to have everything figured out. Take it one month at a time—we’re rooting for you.
