High School Timeline
When planning their academic path at Chatfield Senior High, students need to know and understand the prerequisites and requirements for courses they wish to take, including whether special approval is required.
Before selecting a subject, students should check the course description with a teacher to be sure it fits their needs, interests, abilities and career goals.
Students should see their counselor if questions arise about college entrance requirements or vocational information. Be prepared to register for several alternatives, as the availability of classes can vary from year to year. And, consult with parents.
See below for important annual milestones for juniors and seniors.
Seniors
September and October
- Register for ACT or SAT tests if not already taken
- Narrow college or school choices
- Organize application materials noting admission and financial aid deadlines
- Check deadlines for college applications
- Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors and coaches
- Check on housing
- Begin exploring possible scholarships and note deadlines
- Visit the guidance resource center for scholarship information
- If not taken yet, take ACT or SAT tests
- Submit college/school application to counselor at least two weeks before the deadline. Be sure to request an official transcript by completing the blue transcript request form
- Start the financial aid process; go to www.fafsa.ed.gov
- Submit FAFSA online beginning Oct. 1
January
- Submit FAFSA online beginning Jan. 1
- Apply for any applicable scholarships
- Continue to submit applications
February, March and April
- Apply for any applicable scholarships
- Continue to submit college applications
Juniors
Fall semester
- Take PSAT/NMSQT in October
- Sign up for college visits
- Attend Junior College Planning Night
- Update Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP)
- Explore Naviance: Careers, Colleges, Scholarships
- Attend college fairs
- Visit colleges over school breaks
Spring semester
- Update Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP)
- Complete junior review with your counselor
- Continue to visit colleges
- Continue to attend college fairs
- Continue researching colleges for the right fit, including size, cost, location and majors