As the last year of high school starts, the preparation of applying to college begins. Although planning for college can be stressful, here are a few things that will help you survive senior year and get ready for college.

It’s never too late to score a super scholarship.

You can apply for scholarships all through senior year. They may require some effort, but every bit counts right? Don’t stop trying until you succeed.

Don’t Procrastinate!

As much as we all love to procrastinate, try to make time for college applications. Give yourself more than one night to write your admissions essay so you can brainstorm, write, add more, rewrite, proofread, and edit your masterpiece. This is a crucial part of your application, don’t ruin it for yourself.

Letters of recommendation make all the difference

Give those who are writing your letters at least two to three weeks to write a good letter of recommendation. Make sure to provide them with any personal information or even a stamped envelope to help make the process easier.

Application Deadlines

Remember to plug in the application deadlines into your calendar. Although some colleges may have a rolling admission, it’s better to submit your application sooner rather than later. Once all of the freshman slots are filled, you might be out of luck.

Grades still matter

Don’t let senioritis get to you! Colleges and universities will get copies of your senior grades; so don’t give them a reason to second-guess your academic stature.

The final decision is yours

You’ve gotten help from teachers, guidance counselors, friends and family, but at the end of the day, the decision is yours. By May 1^st of senior year, your choice of college must be confirmed with a deposit. Around this time, you’ll also need to notify other colleges of your decision.

A thank-you card is always nice

Ever since your freshman year, teachers and counselors have shaped you into whom you’ll be when you walk across that stage. They have helped you through your college process, so why not let them know you appreciate all their efforts, and try to stay in contact with all of these people who have made you the successful person you will be.

This is your last year of high school – enjoy it!

In the midst of college planning and applying, remember to give yourself a break and have fun. Stay involved and attend your senior events – Senior Social, Senior Brunch, Homecoming, and Prom. Years down the road you won’t remember the stress that you suffered but you’ll surely remember all the good times.