Back to school for high school seniors means more than just back to the books.

The fall of senior year can be a stressful time with prepping for standardized tests, finalizing college lists, staring at applications, writing and rewriting essays, begging for letters of recommendation, requesting transcripts. And oh yes — there’s homework, extracurricular activities, work, sports, family and hopefully, a social life, too!
There are five major areas of college admissions activity in the fall: organization, college search, testing, applications and financial aid. Here are some tips on managing the fall crunch.
• Organization: Review transcript to be sure all graduation and special diploma program requirements will be met.
Create files and/or organization system for each school you plan on applying to.
Arrange to have the official school transcripts sent to all colleges to which you are applying.
Student athletes should check in with their counselors regarding recruiting procedures.
Attend college information workshops offered at school.
Track all deadlines for testing (listed below) and applications including Early Action and Early Decision.
• College search: Meet with your counselor to update your list of options.
Research your college choices in greater depth using the Internet; attend college fairs.
Narrow your search and finalize your list. Make sure you have a combination of “Reach,” “Target” and “Sure Thing.” Be sure you identify two “Sure Thing” schools that you are truly willing and able to attend.
Visit college campuses. Most school systems allow for senior absences for college visits. If possible, try to schedule them during teacher workdays.
• Testing/deadlines:
Take the SAT Subject Test(s) if recommended or required by colleges.
Start preparing for the October and November tests. On late registration dates, extra fees apply.
Oct. 6 — SAT I and SAT II
• Sept. 10 — Registration• Sept. 14 — Late registration
Oct. 27 — ACT
• Sept. 21 — Registration
• Oct. 5 — Late registration
Nov. 3 — SAT I, SAT II and language tests with listening
• Oct. 2 — Registration• Oct. 11 — Late registration
Dec. 1 — SAT I and SAT II
• Oct. 20 – Registration
• Nov. 8 — Late registration
Dec. 8 ACT
• Nov. 2 — Registration
• Nov. 15 — Late registration
• College applications:
Check out www.commonapp.org to see which of the colleges you are interested in accept the Common Application. Complete Supplemental Applications for Common Application colleges. Finish drafts of application essays. Have someone review them.
Students should approach teachers for letters of recommendation; be sure to send them thank-you notes.
Try to submit applications for state universities by early October — many have rolling admissions and notify applicants as applications are received and processed and don’t wait until February/March to make decisions.
• Financial aid: Contact the financial aid offices at each college of interest. See your high school counselor if you must file a CSS/Financial Aid Profile.
Apply for scholarships. CMS students can check out: www.scholarshipplus.com/charmeck
 
Lee Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte: lee@collegeadmissionsstrategies.com; www.collegeadmissionsstrategies.com