<p>Hi! Sorry if this thread is in the wrong forum but I'm just so stressed out about college. I have barely any idea where I want to go, and I'm so confused regarding when to fill out apps/write essays/get recs/apply for scholarships&financial aid. I'm also one of those people whose family doesn't make enough money to pay for a college that costs > $30000 but my family makes enough to not be eligible for a lot of financial aid. Anyone have any advice regarding when to do everything? It's appreciated :]</p>
<p>In most cases you will need to have completed applications into your guidance dept by December 1 unless you are planning to apply ED. The application for FAFSA I believe is not available until after January 1. Most high schools have a college planning night or more in both spring of junior year and fall of senior year. What you should be doing now is deciding on your list of what schools to apply to, deciding whether or not you will be re-taking SAT or possibly ACT and asking teachers or others for recommendations. You can request a meeting with your guidance counselor if having difficulty deciding where to apply. Certainly in NY you should spend time reviewing the SUNY schools and understanding their application process. You should be working on your resume/list of extra-curricular activities and working on your essays.</p>
<p>You look at schools costing under $30K or those that offer merit aid.</p>
<p>Your state schools should be a consideration and for merit aid see the very good thread on top of the financial aid board.</p>
<p>I’am also fustrated, difficult to find a school you may get accepted into and get good financial aid. I don’t want to take out large loans, especially knowing I plan to attend graduate school.</p>