It's your last year of high school, and you're ready for the final stages of planning for college. Keep this list handy to help you survive  

senior year

  and get ready for college.

1. Campus visits help you narrow down your college list.
Nothing gives you a better picture of college life than a campus visit. Don't be afraid to take a second trip to help you make your final application decisions.

2. College interviews are critical.
Request an on-campus interview even if it's not required. Let your personality shine, and show the admission counselor you're serious about the school.

3. There's still time to hit your standardized test scores out of the park.
Register for the October, November, December, or January SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests or the October or December ACT to show colleges what you're capable of.

4. It's not too late to score a super scholarship.
You can apply for scholarships all the way through senior year and beyond. Don't stop your search until you reach success.

5. Writing your admissions essay should take more than one night.
Save plenty of time for brainstorming, writing, rewriting, and editing your masterpiece. You can even run it past your English teacher before you submit it.

6. Your guidance counselor is your new BFF.
Make regular appointments with your counselor, keep her updated on how you're planning for college, and reap the benefits of her college admissions expertise.

7. Good letters of recommendation make all the difference.
Give your letter writers at least three weeks to write a reference. Provide a stamped envelope and any personal information they'll need to write the best recommendation possible.

8. Applying early has its pros and cons.
On the one hand, you'll get it all over with quicker. On the other hand, your financial aid package might not be as sweet. If they know they've got you, they don't have to work as hard to woo you.

9. Application deadlines are worth plugging into your calendar.
Even if a college has rolling admissions, you should still submit your application sooner than later. Once the freshman class slots are filled, you're out of luck.

10. There's no financial aid without the FAFSA.
Bug your parents to complete their income tax forms ASAP, since you'll need those figures to fill out the FAFSA and submit it as soon as possible after January 1 of senior year.

11. You're allowed to appeal financial aid decisions.
Compare financial aid packages from the schools that accept you, and prepare to negotiate. The worst they can say is no, right?

12. Your grades still matter.
Don't let senioritis get the better of you. Colleges get copies of your senior year grades, so don't give them a reason to second-guess your academic stature.

13. The final decision is yours.
By May 1 of senior year, you'll need to choose a college and send a deposit. You will also need to notify other colleges of your decision.

14. A thank-you note goes a long way.
Plenty of people helped you get to this point in the college process. Let them know you appreciate their efforts, and leave the door open for a continued relationship.

15. This is your last year of high school -- enjoy it!
In the midst of all your planning for college, remember to make time for fun. Years down the road, you may not remember the stress you suffered, but you will always remember your friends.

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