12th Grade

Road Map to College - 12th Grade

Ready, Set, Go

You are now a senior! I am sure time has flown-by and crawled at the same time. This is the year where all the planning is now coming together. College visits, financial aid, scholarships and all your hard work and planning is coming to an end. The beginning of your future is right around the corner.

Tips

Apply for Admission

  • Now is the time to apply for three to five colleges or universities that you are interested in attending. Check the universities' website and brochures for specific application deadlines. Some deadlines are as early as October!

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

  • This is an important step for financial aid. You will need to complete the application soon after October 1st for the following academic year.

Establish an email account

  • Most colleges and universities will email you periodic updates on your application status. Having a separate email account that you can check often will help eliminate missing important emails.

Deposits

  • When you receive admissions offers remember to send in any required deposits. Deposits are normally refundable until a date determined by the school. Review the date for refundable deposits.

The Florida Department of Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA), administers a variety of state-funded grants and scholarships to assist Florida residents with the cost of their postsecondary education.

Scholarship Opportunities

When it comes to paying for college, put scholarships on the top of your priority list. There are many scholarships to explore regardless of whether or not you are a superstar student or athlete. Every little bit counts, so don't discount even seemingly small scholarships.

Tips

Start your search early

  • Give yourself plenty of time to devote to searching and applying for scholarships. Securing college money that doesn't have to be repaid is worth the time spent.

Contact your school counselor

  • Your school counselor should be able to give you direction on scholarships to apply for and tips on how to search for scholarships.

Look at organizations

  • Check with organizations you are affiliated with, either as a volunteer or member - some may offer scholarship opportunities.

Scholarships 101

Scholarships

Scholarship Search Sites