Apply to College
There so much more that goes into this than the college application! At DATCU, we want you to feel more comfortable about your path to college.
Good college planning can help reduce stress
Good college planning can help reduce stress
Keep your timeline in mind as you go through high school
Follow these tips that apply to each year in school
Feel more in control and less anxious about your journey
For the places you'll go...
Whether it's university life or a small-college experience, here in North Texas or a thousand miles away, we'll always be your credit union home offering the support you need.
Freshman and Sophomore Year of High School
It's a great time to meet with your high school academic counselor about your college plans. Remember, colleges can view your grades on transcripts so now is the time to get focused.
Junior Year of High School
September
Have the college talk with your parents
Where do you want to go? What major? How much can you spend?
October
Take the PSAT
It can give you an idea of where you fall in the college applicant pool. Plus, your score may make you eligible for national scholarships.
November
Consider how you'll pay for college
Take a look at different types of loans and scholarships. From the exceptionally tall to the llama enthusiast, there's a scholarship opportunity for everyone!
December
Take the ACT/SAT
These tests are crucial to figuring out which schools are a good match for you. Consider taking practice tests and even a prep course to ensure that you get your best score possible.
March
Make a file for each school
Check out college fairs and visit campuses. Then compare information about each school's academics, financial aid, and campus life.
Senior Year of High School
August
Start your essays
With your top schools in mind, start drafting your work and be sure to leave yourself time for edits, edits, and more edits.
September
Secure letters of recommendation
Reach out to teachers, coaches, and employers who would be happy to write you a glowing review. Don't forget to send them a thank you note afterwards!
October
Apply for financial aid
Some student aid programs award funds on a first-come, first-served basis so don't wait too long to submit your FAFSA. Consider re-taking standardized tests. You can also re-take your SAT and try to raise your scores.
November
Stay on top of deadlines
Don't let the date for early application sneak up on you. Many schools have different application deadlines; make sure you know when everything is due.
January
Apps are due
January 1 is the universal deadline for most schools' applications, so make sure yours are in. If you applied early action, you could get your decision letter any day.
February
Mail's here
Keep an eye out for your college acceptance letters.
March
Watch for the financial aid offers
This is when you'll get financial aid offers from schools that have accepted you. Compare them to see which offers the best financial aid package.
April
Decision time
After deciding where you'd like to go, make sure to stay on top of communications from your school. Deposits, forms, and housing apps are all due prior to leaving in the fall.
May
Make a budget
Talk with your parents to figure out how much you'll expect to earn and pay while at school. Having a budget will start you on the journey toward financial responsibility.
Summer
Final to-do items
This is the time to attend orientation, register for your classes, and make sure the tuition bill is paid. It's also the time to have fun – and have an amazing time!
FAFSA is a registered service mark of U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid.
©2023 sallie Mae Bank. Sallie Mae, the Sallie Mae logo, and other Sallie Mae names and logos are service markes or registered service marks of Sallie Mae Bank. All other names and logos used are the trademarks or service marks of their respective owners. SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries, including Sallie Mae Bank, are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States of America. W220002B0723
©2023 sallie Mae Bank. Sallie Mae, the Sallie Mae logo, and other Sallie Mae names and logos are service markes or registered service marks of Sallie Mae Bank. All other names and logos used are the trademarks or service marks of their respective owners. SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries, including Sallie Mae Bank, are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States of America. W220002B0723
