Seniors

It’s your time to shine

Well done, high school seniors! You’ve almost made it through your high school experience, and now you’re ready to start a brand new adventure. A grander adventure. A life-changing, friends-making, I-never-knew-that-was-even-possible adventure.

Your college application year

Your senior year is a busy time. We put together the following timeline of things to do during the fall and spring of your senior year to help you keep on top of it all.

Set yourself up for success by learning what you need to know and getting ready to apply early.

  • If you haven’t already, attend informational events like college fairs to learn about schools you’re interested in. You can also explore our website to learn about life at IU, including career preparation, academic opportunities, and life in Bloomington.
  • Finalize a list of the schools you will apply to—and compile a list of their deadlines and application requirements.
  • Research which schools are test-optional and which require test scores. Then, take the SAT and/or ACT if you need scores or would like to have them considered.

Get a head start by working on your materials and applications as soon as possible.

  • If you need letters of recommendation, ask for them early. Your recommenders may be receiving many requests.
  • Gather all application materials.
  • Write your college application essays early. Then, revise them until they are the best they can be.
  • Submit your applications as soon as you're ready—some schools have early decision or early action deadlines that give students the highest scholarship consideration.
  • Fill out and submit the FAFSA—the application opens October 1. The FAFSA is an important part of scholarships at many schools, including scholarships at IU.

Finish your senior year strong as you look forward to admissions decisions.

  • Keep up your good work in high school throughout the year—your college of choice will want to see your final transcript after you graduate.
  • If you’d like to, take AP exams in the spring for the opportunity to earn college credit. If you’re interested in credits at IU, explore our website to learn more about advanced placement, course credit, and course exemptions, as well as college credit transfer.
  • Know when to expect a response from each of the schools you applied to.

Consider your options to make the most informed decision possible.

  • For schools you’ve been admitted to, compare financial aid packages and costs of attendance to understand your options.
  • If possible, visit schools you’ve been admitted to so that you can find the right fit.
  • Choose your college and make a plan to works for you and your family. Consider work-study and loans if necessary.
  • Reserve your space! The final deadline for enrollment deposits is typically May 1—for fall 2024, the deadline has been extended to May 15. Please note that the IU enrollment deposit is nonrefundable and will be credited toward your first-semester tuition expenses.
  • Start connecting with other admitted students at events and through online platforms.

We’re here for you

At IU, we’re here to make the admissions process as easy as possible. If you have questions or need help, reach out to your personal admission counselor or contact us.

Meet your admission counselor