By Eric Bennett, College Countdown Editor, ScholarShare 529

June 17, 2025

Parents, here’s an important message for your rising seniors: This summer is not just for relaxing. Your teen should get things done. Help your student finish as much college application work as possible before senior year starts.

Tasks to complete before senior year:

  1. Family Discussion – Have a conversation about everyone’s expectations for college options. Has the current situation changed where your student is willing to attend? Have financial matters affected their choices? Ensure everyone is on the same page.
  2. Decide on Testing – Many colleges are continuing test-optional policies. Decide if your student wants to take or retake the SAT/ACT this fall. If strong scores are achievable and they have time to prep, taking the test could be beneficial. Otherwise, use the summer to strengthen other parts of their application. Know the testing policies for each college on their list.
  3. Letters of Recommendation – Many colleges require at least one letter from a high school teacher, usually from an 11th-grade core class. Encourage your student to ask for recommendations this spring or early summer. Reassure them that even if they only knew the teacher virtually, colleges want to hear how they adapted to new learning styles.
  4. Open a Common App or Coalition App Account – Have your student start filling out their application. Even if their college list isn’t final, they can complete the common sections over the summer (e.g., biographical info, school and coursework, activity list).
  5. Write the Personal Statement: Your student will need one main essay for the Common/Coalition App. Encourage them to start writing it now so they can focus on supplemental essays in the fall. Aim to have the personal statement finished before school starts.
  6. Narrow Down the College List: Your student may need to finalize their college list without visiting all campuses. Use virtual tours and events to research colleges. Aim to start senior year with a shortlist of colleges that meet their criteria and spread across the selectivity spectrum. The goal is a balanced list they’re excited about.

Completing these tasks over the summer will make the fall much easier for your Senior and give them more time to enjoy their final year of high school. Encourage them to get excited about next year. Working on things within their control is a positive reminder that the future is bright and they’re moving forward.

About the author: 

Eric Bennett is the editor for College Countdown, a website maintained by ScholarShare 529 for families with college-bound kids. Eric has over three decades of experience in higher education managing recruitment and marketing, financial aid, and student development at three universities from Georgia to California to New York City.