Planning Guide for Grades 7–12

Getting Started (PDF)
Important terms, types of colleges and degrees, two-plus-two programs, types of admissions, college admissions criteria, the four-year high school plan.

Paying for College (PDF)
Options, types of financial aid, saving for college, sources of financial aid, financial aid forms, FAFSA4caster.

Exploring Careers (PDF)
Self-exploration checklist, VT Guidance Central, Vermont Career Gateway, Start Where You Are.

Grades 7and 8 (PDF)
Student task list, parent/adult task list.

Grades 9 and 10 (PDF)
Student task list, parent/adult task list, academic preparation.

Grade 11 (PDF)
Student task list, parent/adult task list, standardized tests.

The College Search (PDF)
Factors to consider, college fairs, questions to ask at college fairs.

Grade 12 (PDF)
Student task list, parent/adult task list, the college visit.

Applying to College (PDF)
Admissions categories, applications timeline, the application process, choosing a college major, the gap year.

Checklists and Worksheets (PDF)