Senior year doesn’t have to be stressful—really! If you stayed on top of things during junior year and the summer, you’re already in great shape. At this point, you should be wrapping up your college essay (edited and polished), updating your resume, and getting your Common App as close to done as possible.

Those supplemental essays? Drafted and in the final editing stage. You’ve got this!

Make sure you’re still checking in regularly with your college counselor. They’ll help keep you on track with deadlines, essays, test info, and everything else college-related.

Your classes and grades still matter this year—big time. Keep challenging yourself with courses you can succeed in, and aim to finish strong. First quarter grades go to every school you apply to, and mid-year grades go to colleges that haven’t made a decision yet. Your final transcript gets sent to the school you decide to attend.

Still involved in clubs, sports, or other activities? Awesome—don’t stop now! Senior year is the perfect time to step up and take on a leadership role in something you love.

Also, be sure to follow up with any teachers writing your recommendation letters. A quick reminder and a big thank-you go a long way!

Let your counselor know where you’re applying: Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), Regular Decision (RD)—they need to know it all. And ask them to give your apps a final look before you hit submit.

Transfer everything from your resume into your Common App activities list. Keep it clean and up to date.

If you’re applying for financial aid, don’t forget to submit the FAFSA (opens October 1st!) and, if needed, the CSS Profile.

Stay on top of all application deadlines—seriously. Try to submit everything at least two weeks early and always have someone proofread your apps before they go out.

Once you submit, set up your applicant portals and double-check that your materials (test scores, recs, transcripts, etc.) have been received.