If you are college‑bound this fall, you have most likely already attended new student orientation. After you attend orientation, it's up to you to stay connected with your college or university. One of the best ways to do that is through social media platforms. Check with your school's s student life department since Facebook groups are quickly becoming the most popular way to stay connected. There is likely a “Class of 2023” Facebook page for your university which allows you to connect with fellow incoming freshmen and talk about what you'll be studying, where you will be living, comparing class schedules, and discuss which activities in which students are planning to participate. Sometimes you can even meet your roommate through your school's Facebook group! And speaking of roommates, look to see if your school offers roommate profile questionnaires (which you might find on your portal) or if you can simply request your roommate. Each college or university will operate a little differently, so if you are not sure, ask!

Some colleges, like Keene State College, will post “how to” or “next step” information on their website. The University of New Hampshire (UNH) posts helpful information about moving in. Make sure to check your school’s website for all the information you need for a successful move to campus!

It's also important to finalize your financing plan this summer before classes start as well. If you plan to accept your Federal Direct Student Loan, make sure to complete your Master Promissory Note (MPN) as well as the required Entrance Counseling. If your family needs assistance determining your financing options, call us at the Center for College Planning (CCP) at 888.747.2382, ext. 119 to meet with one of our college counselors for a FREE 60‑minute meeting.

High School Seniors ‑ do you know the SAT test is being offered this August? The following seven high schools are hosting the SAT on Saturday, August 24th: Alvirne High School, Bow High School, Concord High School, Exeter High School, Goffstown High School, Kennett High School, Manchester Memorial High School, New Hampton School, and Stevens High School. Register for the August 25th SAT by Friday, July 26th (late registration is available online until Wednesday, August 15th) to take advantage of this additional summer test date.

Did you know that research shows that studying with Official SAT^® Practice on Khan Academy^® for 20 hours is associated with an average score gain of 115 points on the SAT? And nearly 40 percent of all test takers reported using Khan Academy's free SAT practice. Learn more about the benefits of Official SAT Practice here.

For more information about the SAT, and to register for any upcoming SAT test, visit collegeboard.org.

Will you be applying to college this fall? There is no need to retype your information for every college on your list. Using The Common Application, you complete one online application (and perhaps supplemental forms for each of your individual colleges) and electronically send this application to all of your participating schools. You will be able to view your application progress on your dashboard and will receive alerts when important deadlines are approaching.

The Common Application is accepted by more than 750 colleges and universities. Participating schools accept the Common Application in place of their own institutional application. Using this form saves time and simplifies the application process. For more information about the Common Application, including the essay prompts for 2018-2019, see our Application Components page here.

You can create your Common App account whenever you are ready and it will be available for you this fall as you start to apply to college. Get a jumpstart on your application this summer to make your senior year a little less hectic!

Questions about using the Common App? Call us at 888.747.2382, x119!

Over 400 colleges and universities will require applicants to file the CSS Profile^TM form as part of the financial aid process. The CSS Profile form is required by many private colleges and universities to determine an applicant's eligibility for non‑government financial aid, such as the institution's own grants, loans, and scholarships.

If you are applying Early Decision or Early Action this fall, you may need to complete thisthe CSS Profile form early in the financial aid process. While the form for the 2020‑2021 academic year will not be available until October 1, 2019, it's a good idea to mark on your calendar now! Check this helpful list to see if your school will require the form.