July
Congratulations – you’ve finished your junior year and will be a senior soon. Now is the time to begin thinking seriously about college. Do you know what you want to study? Or where you might like to go? Write down your thoughts to help you begin your journey.
The summer before your senior year is a great time to visit college campuses.
Check out our visit opportunities
August
On August 1, . The Common App is an application used by over 900 colleges and universities nationwide, including Mount Saint Mary's University. Fill it out once and use it to apply to the schools in which you're interested. August is a good time to create your Common App account and start adding schools to your list.
PS - The Common App is not the only way to apply. You can also submit our !
September
This month, college representatives will likely start visiting your school. Check-in with your counselor and attend the information sessions of the colleges that interest you.
This is also a good month to start asking for letters of recommendation from your counselor and teachers. These likely won't be due for a couple months, but it's a good idea to give your recommenders plenty of time to work on this for you.
Take some time this month to learn more about the schools you're considering. Explore visit opportunities, research on school websites, and follow them on social media. Instagram accounts are a great way to see a more authentic and unfiltered view of life on campus.
October
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) typically opens on October 1. This means it's time to apply for financial aid. Last year, the FAFSA timeline was a bit different; we will provide you with updates when they come in from FAFSA.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or FAFSA, for short) is the best way to make sure you're considered for need-based aid and, in some cases, merit aid, too. You only fill out one FAFSA and then send it to the schools you're considering.
P.S. - The Mount's FAFSA school code is 001243.
Many schools also host Open House events in October. Open Houses are a great way to experience a campus. Often, you'll have the opportunity to meet with faculty and current students in addition to connecting with the Office of Admission.
Save the date for our Fall Open House on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at our Chalon campus.
November
It's time to complete your applications! Many schools (including the Mount) have Early Action deadlines. Ours is December 1 - apply early for priority consideration. Plus, you'll hear back sooner and can start making plans.
December - February
Remember, applying early has its benefits. Continue to work on your applications and complete your FAFSA. Plus, when you apply early, you don't have to worry about completing your applications over winter break!
Apply by January 15 to be considered for Direct Entry to the Nursing Program.
These months are also a good time to explore outside scholarships.
You might also start receiving financial aid offers in January. Take advantage of financial aid appointments to make sure you and your family understand your offer.
Save the date for our January Admitted Students Event on Sunday, January 26, 2025 at our Doheny campus.
March
If you applied by the regular decision deadline, you should have your admission decision by this point. Now it is your turn to make some decisions - explore the schools you're considering. Reach out to current students, schedule a campus visit, sit in on a class.
April
Many schools will host receptions and events for admitted students - and the Mount is no exception! This is a time to celebrate YOU and help you make your final college decision.
Save the date for our Admitted Student Open House on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at our Chalon campus.
May
May 1 is National Decision Day - and for many colleges it's the date you have to let them know you've chosen to attend their school. Submit your deposit and celebrate National Decision Day.
June
Congratulations! You've graduated high school and you're ready to tackle what comes next!
If that's the Mount, welcome to our community! Make sure to check your for important next steps - and check out the #MountBound page for additional information, including:
- Signing up for New Student Orientation
- Meeting your advisor and registering for classes
- Signing up for on-campus housing
- Connecting with your new classmates
- And MORE!
As a high school student, sometimes it can be overwhelming to think about college and what is needed to feel prepared and ready for this next chapter in your academic career. To better prepare you for college, we have put together suggestions as you begin your college search.