✅ Decision Mode: Your Senior Year Guide From Application to Decision
From the moment you start senior year all the way through your first day on campus — this is your guide. Use the tools and resources here to apply, decide, and transition with confidence.
📝Just Getting Started
Start here if you are in the early stages of senior year — figuring out where to apply and how to plan
📘 Read My Latest Blog
📝 Senior Year Countdown
📝 On Track Playbook
💻 Applied & Waiting
Completed your apps? Check out this section to get your money right before decisions come in.
🎓Got Accepted? Here's What's Next
You got in! Now let’s make sure you pick the right school and show up ready
📝 Get Accepted Student Checklist
Decide & Transition
Get ready to make the decision of a lifetime & get tips to ease the transition
🔎Got Questions? Ask Me
🎓 Frequently Asked Questions
This summer is more important than most families realize. Use this time to finalize your college list, start working on your personal statement, and kick off your scholarship search. Understanding your cost of attendance before senior year hits makes the entire college application process less stressful.
FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — it’s how the government determines your financial aid eligibility. It opens October 1st every year and you should apply as early as possible. Many schools award financial aid on a first-come, first-served basis so waiting is never the move.
Before you celebrate too hard — don’t commit anywhere until you’ve compared every financial aid offer carefully. Look at the full cost of attendance, not just the tuition number. Use the free College Comparison Tool on this page to make the smartest financial decision for your family.
You have more options than you think. You can appeal your financial aid offer, apply for additional scholarships, or explore payment plans. Don’t accept a package that doesn’t work for your family without exploring every option first.
First, handle the practical stuff early — housing forms, orientation registration, and tuition payment deadlines. Make sure your student knows how to manage their email, budget their money, and ask for help. A smooth college transition starts with a solid plan before move-in day.