Timeline for Prospective Students

Applying for Financial Aid

Here is a timeline that will keep you on track during the most hectic time of your life...YOUR SENIOR YEAR!

July/August

Start Early! What do you have to lose? You have some time this summer so use it to your benefit. Visit and research prospective colleges.

September

Back to school! Even though this is your last year at high school. You have a lot to accomplish! Develop a mind set to start planning for college. Try and get your college work done early so you can enjoy your last year in high school!

October

Attend college fairs! They are really informative and also allow you to learn about different schools.

November

Start to apply for colleges. This takes a lot of time and effort because of the numerous application and essays to complete. Also, start to think about how you are planning to pay for college.

Make sure to keep track of all deadlines!

Visiting college’s is a great way to decide whether or not a college is right for you. Set up college visits through your guidance counselor or thought the college itself.

December

Your PMC financial advisor will be your best friend from here on out! Start asking questions about scholarships and how you are eligible. Research Pine Manor Scholarships.

Start collecting vital documents such as forms of identification, W-2 forms, bank statements and tax returns. These forms are needed in order to fill out the FAFSA. If you have these forms now, it will be easier to fill the FAFSA out on time.

January

FAFSA MONTH! Complete your tax returns in preparation for completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once all tax returns are filed, you should complete and submit your FAFSA as soon as Jan 1. Also, check with Pine Manor College about additional financial aid forms you may need to submit. The priority deadline for PMC is May 1st!

February

Fill out and submit the financial aid forms required by the colleges to which you’ve applied. Check with your guidance counselor for any updated scholarship information, and contact any organizations that have not yet responded to your submitted scholarship applications.

This is usually when local scholarships are offered. Check with your guidance counselor and begin filling out applications and writing essays for these scholarships. Any money you can receive if very beneficial.

March

If you filled your FAFSA online, you can review your information through your Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy and to make any necessary changes. If you filed the FAFSA by paper, check the mail for your SAR.

Follow up with the PMC’s financial aid office to make sure they have received all of your paperwork.

April

Keep your eyes on the mail! This month is usually the time when financial aid award letters begin to be sent to you. Look over each award letter carefully and fully determine and compare the package that best fits your needs. Also watch for deadlines—you may be required to sign and return a copy of your financial aid award letter in order to receive the aid. This is also the time to supply additional information that PMC needs to complete your financial aid process.

May

If student loans are part of your award package and you need them to cover college costs, discuss that option with your family. Check with your college’s financial aid office prior to filling out and submitting your loan application(s) so that you can follow their preferred process.

June/July/August

After careful thought and consideration, choose the college you wish to attend. Plan with your family how you are going to pay for college. Choose the best options for you and your family.

It also helps to work during the summer. You will need money for living expenses and often to buy books when attending school.