12th Grade Information & Resources

12th Grade: Executing Your Post-High School Plan

Application and Decision Completion:

• College Applications:
  • Attend college fairs, and visit schools to which you are planning to apply.
  • Finalize your college list.  
  • Take SATs/ACTs again if necessary.
  • Attend the College Essay Workshop for essay assistance.
  • Ask/remind teachers about letters of recommendation.
  • Meet with your counselor to discuss your college process and what you still need to complete.  
  • Submit all remaining applications, including supporting documents, by deadlines.
  • Monitor application portals for updates and requests.
  • Notify the Counseling Office of admissions decisions received.
  • If waitlisted, follow college instructions for expressing continued interest.
• Make Your Decision:
  • Carefully evaluate acceptance offers and financial aid packages.
  • Commit to your chosen college, trade school, or other program by the required deadline.
  • Notify other institutions of your decision to decline their offers.
• Trade School/Military/Work:
  • Complete all trade school applications and placement test requirements.
  • If going into the military, complete all enlistment requirements.
  • If going directly to work, complete all job applications, and prepare for interviews.

Financial Aid and Planning:

• Complete the FAFSA & Necessary Finanicial Aid Forms:
  • Ensure the FAFSA is completed and submitted.
  • FAFSA is a graduation requirement for the Classes of 2025, 2026, & 2027.
  • Complete the CSS Profile if required by the college(s).
  • Review and compare financial aid award letters from colleges.
  • Secure any necessary student loans.
• Scholarship Pursuit:
  • Continue applying for scholarships and grants.
  • Check Naviance, Google Classroom, scholarship clearinghouse sites, and the HTHS Local Scholarship Booklet (distributed in March of senior year).
  • Thank scholarship providers.
• Budgeting:
  • Create a post high school budget.

Transition and Preparation:

• College Transition:
  • Attend college orientation or program information sessions.
  • Arrange for housing, transportation, and other logistical needs.
  • Connect with future classmates or colleagues.
• Trade School/Work Transition:
  • Prepare for the start of your program or job.
  • Arrange for any needed supplies or equipment.
• Life Skills Development:
  • Focus on developing essential life skills (budgeting, cooking, time management, etc.).
  • Ensure that all necessary documentation, such as drivers license, and social security information is in order.
  • Males 18 years of age, register for Selective Service.

Academic Responsibilities and Graduation:

• Maintain Academic Standards:
  • Maintain good grades and attendance throughout senior year.
  • Remember colleges to which you are applying will see your mid year senior grades.
  • Complete all required coursework for graduation.
  • Ensure all graduation requirements are met.
• Final Transcripts and Test Scores:
  • Ensure final transcripts and test scores are sent to your chosen institution.
• Graduation Participation:
  • Participate in graduation ceremonies and activities.

Counseling and Support:

• Regular Counselor Meetings:
  • Continue meeting with your school counselor for guidance and support.
  • Address any remaining questions or concerns.
• Utilize School Resources:
  • Take advantage of any remaining resources and support offered by the school like the Summer Common Application Workshops. College Essay Workshop, Colleges Visiting HTHS, Financial Aid Night, Camden County College/HTHS Events

Personal and Professional Growth:

• Resume/Portfolio Finalization:
  • Finalize your resume or portfolio for future use.
• Networking:
  • Continue building and maintaining professional relationships.
• Reflection:
  • Reflect on your high school experience and prepare for your next chapter.