12th Grade College Counseling Timeline

Grade 12 (Senior Year) – College & Career Counseling Timeline

All support is provided by Mr. O through both group sessions during the CAS course (Semester 1) and individualized one-on-one meetings to ensure personalized guidance for every student.

August – December (Semester 1: Application Preparation & Submission)

  • Weekly college and career readiness lessons during CAS course
  • Research colleges and universities aligned with student goals
  • Create and complete Common Application accounts (students can apply to up to 20 colleges at no cost)
  • Brainstorm, draft, revise, and finalize:
    • Personal statement essay
    • Supplemental essays
  • Guidance on application types and deadlines:
    • Early Decision (legally binding)
    • Early Action (non-binding)
  • Key College Application Deadlines Supported:
    • November 1 & 15
    • December 1 & 15

Goal: All students submit early applications where appropriate.

January – February (Financial Aid Completion)

Students and families receive hands-on support completing financial aid applications:

  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
    • Determines eligibility for federal aid such as Pell Grants, FSEOG, student loans, and work-study
    • Pell Grant (2025–2026): Up to ~$7,395/year (does not need to be repaid)
  • Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency Grant (PHEAA Grant)
    • State-based aid for Pennsylvania residents attending in-state schools
    • Typically up to ~$5,000/year depending on need and school
  • CSS Profile
    • Required by some selective private colleges to award institutional aid
    • Helps colleges distribute their own need-based scholarships and grants

March – April (Scholarships & Decision Support)

  • Apply for internal and external scholarships and grants
  • Support families with financial aid appeal letters to request additional funding
  • Compare financial aid packages and college offers
  • Guide students through final college decision-making process

May 1 (National Senior Decision Day)

  • Students officially commit to their chosen college, university, or postsecondary pathway

May – Early June (Transition to College)

  • Support with:
    • Housing and meal plan selection
    • Orientation registration
    • Submission of required documents, including:
      • Final high school transcript
      • 504 Plans (if applicable)
      • IEP documentation (if applicable)