Preparing for school

Know what you want to do after graduation? Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years? Getting there can mean getting ready now.

Female student planning

No matter your education or career goals, it's helpful to begin preparing early. Sometimes, depending on what you want to do, you may even need to prepare as early as high school or junior high.

Need help catching up?

If you're worried you haven't given the matter any thought, it's not too late.

Do you already have a good idea of what you want?

Perhaps you can start selecting schools to apply to.


Ready for May?

Juniors

Select senior year classes that meet college requirements.

Start visiting colleges.

Take the SAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement (AP) tests, if necessary.

Line up a summer job.

Meet with your high school counselor if you are considering a military academy or an ROTC scholarship.

Seniors

Send your official transcripts.

Respond quickly to requests and return necessary forms.

Notify your financial aid office of additional funding you'll get (scholarships, loans, etc.).

Learn about borrowing responsibly.

Consider a cosigner to help you get your student loan.

If you get a student loan, borrow only what you absolutely need to cover the cost of your education.

Save some of your graduation money for school.


© 1995–2008 Sallie Mae, Inc. All rights reserved. Our trademarks | Terms of use | Protecting your privacy | Avoid online fraud

SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States of America.