It’s August and college will begin soon. If you’re planning to go to school in September, you’ve been spending the summer getting prepared.
But there are probably things you still need to do. Watch your email daily to keep up with your college’s last-minute requests. Also sign up for text reminders, if your college offers them.
Enjoy the anticipation of these last days of summer. Classes will be starting soon!
Our College Enrollment To-Do List
This handy checklist covers it all. Read on to make sure you haven’t missed anything important.
1. Everything for Admission
Make sure you’re in the system and getting all notifications. Did you get all of your required placement exams done?
2. Orientation
Learn how the college works and what you’ll need to do before classes start. Be sure to attend as many orientation events as you can for your school, your major, and any special programs you are part of.
3. Accept financial aid
Look through your financial aid package and meet with a counselor to decide how you will pay. You may get loan counseling and need to sign payment agreements. Make sure everything is in order.
4. Pay up
You may be using a mix of grants, scholarships, and loans. Or perhaps you’re paying out of pocket with savings or a payment plan. Figure out how you will be paying your college bills this year.
5. Finalize housing and food
Students living on campus will need to register for housing and a meal plan. Look for options that fit your budget.
6. Handle health
Submit your immunization records and arrange for health insurance. Be sure to turn down the school’s insurance by the deadline if you’ll be covered under your family’s plan.
7. Register for classes
Watch your email for instructions on getting in touch with your academic advisor and finalizing your classes. You may have registered for classes during summer orientation. Make sure you got the classes you requested.
8. Ask for advice
Wondering which classes to take first in your major? How to get academic help? Best clubs to join? College staff are happy to help.
9. Confirm Your move-in date
What do you need to know about moving in, if you plan to live on campus?
10. Confirm your first day of classes
You wouldn’t want to miss your official first day of college!
Kim Nauer is founder of this website and a higher education expert at the Center for New York City Affairs at The New School. She is a graduate of UConn and the Columbia Journalism School, which were cheap in the old days. Her advice: Don’t overpay for college. There are always options.