High School Timeline
When planning their academic path at Arvada West, it is important for students to know and understand the prerequisites and requirements for courses they wish to take, including whether special approval is required.
Before selecting a subject, check the course description with a teacher to be sure it fits your needs, interests, abilities and career goals. See your counselor if questions arise about college entrance requirements or vocational information. Be prepared to register for several alternatives, as the availability of classes can vary from year to year. And consult with your parents.
See below for important milestones for juniors and seniors.
Seniors
September and October
- Register for ACT or SAT tests if not already taken
- Narrow college or school choices
- Organize application materials noting admission and financial aid deadlines
- Check deadlines for college applications
- Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors and coaches
- Check on housing
- Begin exploring possible scholarships and note deadlines
- Visit the guidance resource center for scholarship information
- If not taken yet, take ACT or SAT tests
- Submit your application to your counselor at least two weeks before the deadline. Be sure to request an official transcript by completing the blue transcript request form
- Start the financial aid process; go to www.fafsa.ed.gov
- Submit FAFSA online beginning Oct. 1
January
- Apply for any applicable scholarships
- Continue to submit applications
February, March and April
- Submit FAFSA online beginning Jan. 1
- Apply for any applicable scholarships
- Continue to submit college applications
Juniors
Fall semester
- Take PSAT/NMSQT in September
- Sign up for college visits
- Participate in Future Day
- Attend Junior/Senior Night
- Update Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP)
- Explore Naviance: Careers, Colleges, Scholarships
- Attend college fairs
- Visit colleges over school breaks
Spring semester
- Update Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP)
- Complete junior review with your counselor
- Continue to visit colleges
- Continue to attend college fairs
- Continue researching colleges for the right fit, including size, cost, location and majors
Contact Us
- 303-982-1303