Senior year is exciting, but it can also feel like a juggling act with scholarship deadlines, college applications, applying for financial aid, and the lure of senioritis. In this episode of Countdown2College, we talk with EducationQuest college planning specialist Rachel Freeman about key steps seniors should take this fall to prepare for life after graduation. Below, Rachel shares practical strategies to help seniors confidently navigate their final year.

Kickstarting the College Application Process

One priority is to start applying to colleges, whether it’s a dream school or a mix of options for backup plans. Applying to multiple schools ensures you have choices if plans change. Alongside applications, begin searching for scholarships early to avoid missing deadlines. And don’t forget to prepare for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens Oct. 1, 2025, to help secure financial aid for college.

Deciding on the Right Path

If you’re still unsure where or if you want to go to college, create a pros and cons list. Compare what you like and dislike about potential colleges and consider smaller schools or alternate paths. For those weighing college against entering the workforce or the military, make a similar list comparing the long-term benefits of each route. Seeing it in writing often makes the choice clear.

Staying Organized Through a Busy Year

Mark deadlines in your calendar at least a week in advance to give yourself a buffer. A spreadsheet or handwritten chart can help you track scholarships, award amounts, and remaining opportunities. Having everything in one place prevents missed deadlines and last-minute scrambles.

Finding Scholarships You Can Win

Before applying for any scholarship, read the requirements closely to ensure you qualify. Check with your school counselor for local scholarships, which tend to be less competitive than statewide or national awards. Don’t overlook smaller amounts, $500 scholarships can add up quickly and often have fewer applicants.

Retaking the ACT or SAT

Even at test-optional schools, scores can impact scholarship offers. Review each college’s requirements and note their score submission deadlines. If you decide to retake the exam, work backward from the last acceptable testing date to schedule multiple attempts.

Filing the FAFSA Early

The FAFSA is free to complete and is now easier than ever, thanks to IRS data imports. Filing typically takes only 10–15 minutes. The FAFSA opens Oct. 1, and while you don’t have to submit it on day one, doing it early increases your chances for first-come, first-served grants.

Comparing Financial Aid Offers

When evaluating offers, focus on the cost after gift aid but before loans to see your actual out-of-pocket expenses. Lay out your offers side-by-side, and remember that the most aid doesn’t always mean the lowest cost—total expenses can still vary greatly between schools.

Building Essential Life Skills

Self-discipline is key to success in college. Without parents or teachers checking in, you’re responsible for attending class, completing assignments, and staying on top of responsibilities. Build good habits now. Set alarms, reward yourself for staying on track, and keep your goals in mind.

Beating Senioritis

Think of senior year as a race, and push through to the finish line so all your hard work pays off. Staying focused until graduation ensures you maintain opportunities for scholarships and college acceptance.

Making the Most of Senior Year

Enjoy your final year of high school! While deadlines and decisions are important, this is also a time to make lasting memories. Lean on friends for support, share the workload, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Senior year can be one of the most rewarding times of your life, so make it count.