When is the ideal time to begin the college application process?

The college application season often catches many students and parents by surprise. In the midst of games, school plays, homework, and all that goes along with being a high school student, we aren't ready to plan for college. After all, it's a year or so away! And yes, attending college is a year or so away, but the process of getting there starts much sooner.

In fact, college applications open before students even attend their first day of school as a high school senior! And, to apply when applications open, months of planning should have already occurred. This means that definitely by the start of second semester of junior year, students are actively preparing for their applications. A college list should be made, careers researched, campuses visited, recommendation letters requested, and essays written. Just the process of shaping a list of good-fit universities can take months.

Most college application deadlines are in the winter of senior year. The big Texas schools like Texas A&M and UT close the earliest, and if you are seeking to gain an advantage through early application options, all application materials must be submitted to many colleges as soon as October! The key to keeping your sanity (and peace in your family) is early planning.

Feel free to download my college planning timeline below to assist with your application process. Or, better yet, let me help! I am offering $100 off the Comprehensive Coaching Membership Plan to juniors who sign up by January. (And, it's not too late for seniors who have still not applied. I have a special package just for you.) Give me a call or email if interested.

gateway-timeline.pdf
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