Advice for Seniors
Advice for Twelfth Graders
Twelfth grade should be your year to follow through and hit the ground running.
Seniors now take a hands-on approach to their college and university application process. They meet regularly in a series of group sessions that take place twice a month and address such topics as the college essay, teacher recommendations, the UC and CSU applications, sending test scores to colleges and universities, communicating with colleges and universities, and dealing with the stress of the application process. Special events scheduled in the senior year include Senior Family College Counseling Night, UC Application Workshop, Financial Aid Workshops, and College Exploration Day. Students are encouraged to make individual appointments with their counselors early in the senior year to further discuss their college list and application strategy. Time management becomes increasingly important for a first-semester senior with the additional responsibilities of completing applications, interviews, college essays, and deadlines. The application process culminates in January with the final submission of applications and financial aid documents. Colleges and universities typically release decisions beginning in mid-March. Students must decide where they are attending and notify the college or university by May 1. Final transcripts will be sent to colleges and universities by the end of June.
- Continue to challenge yourself academically. Your course load should reflect your commitment to academic excellence!
- Stay active as a role model at our school! Continue to demonstrate leadership, persistence, and service to your community. Continue to hone your talents and creativity.
- Register for the SATs and/or ACTs. Click here for SAT registration information, or here for ACT registration information!
- Re-take your SAT and/or ACT exam(s) in the fall. Relax and do your best! (Colleges and universities will accept any scores up to and including the December administration.)
- Manage your time effectively. Be aware of dates and deadlines, and don't spread yourself too thin!
- Stay organized. Keep close track of all your college and university materials and create a system of organization that works for you!
- Participate in College Exploration Day in mid-October. Explore local colleges and universities with your classmates!
- Check our upcoming events page for opportunities to attend college-related events in the Los Angeles area.
- Attend college and university presentations. Meet the college and university representatives who will be reviewing your application and welcome them to Milken! (Click here for more information and to see who is visiting our campus.)
- Apply to your colleges and universities in time for your deadlines!