COLLEGE PLANNING STEPS

​Feeling confused?  Follow these steps to college planning success!
Working on a resume?
​Click on the links to download the 
resume template1 or 
resume template2, 
Activities Chart, and References List. 
These steps will allow students to start their college planning process - please visit with a School Counselor for personalized support!

Begin searching for colleges.  This can be the most important step of the college admission process... GETTING STARTED!  This can begin as early as junior year or as late as fall of senior year. It important to research what each specific college and university requires and to pay attention to all deadlines for applying and financial aid.
  • Visit Oregon Goes to College for tips on things to consider as you're looking at schools and programs.
  • Click here to learn how to begin making a list of potential colleges and universities.​  
Compile your college resume.  This can be something that students start compiling as early as their freshmen year.  It will be continually updated throughout junior and senior year.  It is helpful to have when filling out scholarships, applications and requesting letters of rec.​
  • Click here to see an example of a typical Astoria High School student's college resume. 

Consider taking the SAT and/or ACT test.  Visit Student Services and review your specific needs for applications. Many schools and scholarships do not required standardized testing and are considered "test optional" or "test blind". Because of different requirements for schools and scholarships, it is important to consider carefully your need for a test such as the SAT or ACT.  AHS typically offers the SAT at the end of the your junior year and/or the beginning of your senior year. A variety of test dates and sites are available in addition to those offered at AHS. Find out when tests are offered and register here: SAT or ACT 
 
Apply to colleges. 
    1. Visit college websites to learn about their application process and deadlines. Take action and don't procrastinate!
    2. Click here to learn about CommonApp, apply to many schools using a single application tool.
    3. Need a letter of recommendation?  Be sure to plan ahead and give recommenders a minimum of 2 weeks notice. Providing recommenders with a Recommender Request Form and copies of your resume and transcript helps ensure you get the best letter possible. Be sure to thank your recommender!
    4. Review your application with a School Counselor or other trusted adult to make sure it's your best work.

Apply for scholarships.
    1.  Click here for a list of scholarships that have been advertised with the AHS Counseling Office.
    2.  Need a letter of recommendation?  Be sure to plan ahead and give recommenders a minimum of 2 weeks notice. Providing recommenders with a Recommender Request Form and copies of your resume and transcript helps ensure you get the best letter possible. Be sure to thank your recommender!
    3.  Look at the financial aid and/or scholarship websites of the schools that you're planning to attend. Be sure to check your email and other relevant accounts for communications regarding financial aid. 

Apply for Financial Aid.
    1.  Click here to get information about filing the FAFSA.
    2. Click here for more information about Oregon Promise and OSAC.

Don't forget to ask for help along the way -- contact the Student Services Office when yo​u have any questions, need a proof reader, or just want to make sure things are on track!