SENIOR YEAR -- SPRING

Tips:

• Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form if you qualify. You'll need it to be eligible. It doesn't bind you to take a loan, but it will let you get one if needed.
• Fill out school-specific financial aid forms. Money is good.
• Keep looking and applying for scholarships.
• Visit schools on your list that you haven't seen yet. Avoid the college blind date!
• Attempt to not freak out while you wait for news from your schools.
• Celebrate the thick envelopes!
• Make your decision, stick with it and send in the appropriate forms. Then go buy a school sweatshirt. Congratulations!

Expert Advice:
"We've seen a trend where seniors will take the easy way out. They don't understand how important senior year grades can be. Those grades can make or break an application. You're not allowed to have senioritis until after the prom!"

-- Dale Marini, Associate Director of Admissions for Loyola Marymount University