Work with your school counselor to ensure that you are upholding NMPED graduation requirements using your

NEXT STEP PLAN TEMPLATE 

Finish the year strong. The college or university you are planning to attend will require a copy of your final transcript, which includes grades from your senior year.

Take the right math class for your chosen path of study.

Add important due dates to your planner or calendar. You may want to include:

• College application deadlines
• Scholarship deadlines
• ACT/SAT test dates
• FAFSA (October 1 is usually the first day to apply!)
• College visit dates

Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, advisors, bosses, etc.

Submit your college applications with time to spare. Application fee waivers may be available. Check with your high school counselor for more information.

Check with colleges about their ACT/SAT requirements and whether improving your score may mean access to more scholarship money.

Confirm online, over the phone, or with a counselor whether a college requires a secondary application for scholarships.

Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

Even if you do not think you will qualify for federal financial aid, many colleges require the FAFSA for scholarship eligibility. If you are undocumented, consult with the school you plan to attend for aid information and read page 70 for more information.

Check with your counselor about FAFSA completion resources and if your school is planning to host a FAFSA night for families.

In the spring, review your award letters from the colleges you have been accepted to and add in any scholarship money you have received to calculate your out-of-pocket costs.

Continue to apply for scholarships.

Continue contributing to your 529 account at THEEDUCATIONPLAN.COM (see page 67).

Evaluate your loan options.

Visit the schools you plan to attend in person.

List the pros and cons of each school.

Consult with your family about your final decision.

Inquire about First Year Experience Programs and Summer Bridge Programs that might be available to you.

Accept any financial aid you have received from the college you will attend.

Turn in any official documentation, such as transcripts and test scores, to the college you plan to attend.

Submit your on-campus housing forms and deposit.

Apply for any on-campus programs, such as TRIO SSS, if you qualify. See page 71.

Enjoy graduation, and be proud of all you have accomplished! Participate in any senior send-off activities your school is hosting.

Participate in College Signing Day at your high school, if available.