High School Seniors, Here is the Short List for College Prep + Accommodations
Hey High School Seniors, this one’s for YOU!
First off, congratulations. Seriously. You’ve made it to senior year—a year that’s all about opportunities, big decisions, late-night essays, and a lot of “lasts.” Whether you’re excited, nervous, or both, you should feel proud of how far you’ve come. And now… it’s time to look ahead.
What You Should Be Doing Right Now
Here’s your senior year checklist to stay on track:
- ✅ Take the ACT/SAT (if you haven’t already).
- ✅ Narrow down your college list—choose schools that fit your goals and your vibe.
- ✅ Visit campuses to see what feels like home.
- ✅ Finish those essays.
- ✅ Wrap up the Common App.
Deadlines You Can’t Miss
Different schools = different deadlines. Here’s the cheat sheet:
- Early Action: Nov 1 or Nov 15
- Early Decision: Nov 1 or Nov 15
- Early Decision II: Jan 1
- Regular Decision: Jan 1 (for most schools)
- Rolling Admissions: Year-round, until spots fill
- Community College: Up to the start of—or even a few weeks into—the semester
Pro tip: Put these dates in your phone now. Future You will thank you.
Accommodations: What You Need to Know
A great way to start understanding resources and accommodations at potential colleges is to research them. What are typical accommodations the college might grant? Can you have a conversation with the Disability Resource Center to do an informational meeting to understand how they work with students? Do they have a writing center or tutoring center on campus? What other resources are available?
Here’s how to do it:
- Start online: Go to your college’s website and search for “accommodations,” “disability services,” or “student support.”
- Find the process: Each school has its own steps and forms.
- Gather your documents: This usually means your IEP, 504, or medical documentation.
After You have been Accepted
- Contact the office: Schedule a meeting with Disability Services.
- Have the conversation: Share what works for you and what support you need.
Important Note:You don’t have to tell professors your diagnosis. You just share your accommodations with them once you’re officially registered.
Feeling Stressed?
That’s normal—college prep can feel like a full-time job. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone. If the process feels overwhelming, or you want expert support, Focus Collegiate is here to help. We are now enrolling for Summer Cohort, Collegiate Virtual, and Fall 2026. Contact us for more information.
So, take a breath, stay organized, and remember—this is the start of something amazing. You’ve got this, Class of 2026!