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Application tracker

Tasks, essays, and your four-year timeline — organized in one place.

40%
Complete
5
Total tasks
2
Done
2
In progress

Upcoming tasks

Timing shown is approximate. Verify deadlines with each school.

Research Target Colleges
Create a balanced list of reach, target, and safety schools
Aug–Oct, Senior yearIn progress
Draft Common App Essay
Write first draft of main Common Application essay (650 words)
Sep–Oct, Senior yearIn progress
Take SAT/ACT
Complete standardized testing
Junior yearDone
Request Teacher Recommendations
Ask 2–3 teachers for letters of recommendation
Spring–Summer, Junior yearDone
Campus Visits
Visit schools and attend information sessions
Oct–Nov, Senior yearIn progress

Essays

Common App Main EssayDraft

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

Common Application
Nov–Jan (varies by school)
Stanford — Intellectual VitalityDraft

The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning.

Stanford University
Jan (verify with Stanford)

Application timeline

Freshman Year
Fall
Build Your Foundation

Focus on academic performance and exploring interests

  • —Take challenging courses
  • —Join clubs and activities that interest you
  • —Build relationships with teachers
Freshman Year
Spring
Continue Building

Maintain strong grades and deepen involvement

  • —Reflect on first-year experiences
  • —Consider summer opportunities (camps, jobs, programs)
  • —Take on leadership roles in activities
Sophomore Year
Fall
Increase Rigor

Challenge yourself academically and take on leadership

  • —Take PSAT for practice
  • —Explore honors or AP courses
  • —Deepen commitment to key activities
Sophomore Year
Spring
Build Your Profile

Continue strong performance and meaningful involvement

  • —Plan summer activities (job, program, project)
  • —Meet with school counselor
  • —Start SAT/ACT preparation

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