The single most common piece of advice I hear from high school seniors after they’ve completed their applications is “I wish I had started this earlier.” So for all of you early birds who have already researched colleges, visited campuses and even completed your essays take a break, this isn’t for you.

Now, for the remaining 99 percent, here’s what needs to get done:

September/October

Register for the SAT, SAT Subject Tests and/or ACT. (See test dates and registration deadlines under College notes below).

Meet with your guidance counselor to:

Review your college list to be certain it is balanced with Reach, Target and Safety colleges.

Confirm that all graduation requirements will be met.

Determine your updated class rank (if your school ranks)

Register at each of the colleges where you plan to apply. Get user names and passwords and write them down.

Finalize brag sheet/resume.

Prep for SAT/ACT tests.

Determine if early decision/early action or regular decision is available/appropriate for each college, clarify deadlines and what must be submitted by what date.

Attend any college night programs offered by your high school.

Determine which colleges, if any, require essays, letters of recommendation, SAT subject tests, etc. and keep track of information.

Request transcripts from high school guidance office.

Send ACT/SAT scores to colleges on final list.

Visit as many colleges on your list as possible.

Work on rough drafts of college essays brainstorm responses to specific essay prompts.

Research scholarship opportunities (need-based and merit-based aid).

Provide recommenders with appropriate forms and deadlines.

November/December

Collect financial information and pick up FAFSA forms from guidance office or the library.

Finalize essays and request edits from parents and/or teachers.

Proof applications and submit electronically.

Attend financial aid workshops offered at high schools and libraries.

Continue to research scholarship opportunities make a timeline with scholarships deadlines and specific requirements.

Follow up with recommenders to confirm letters of recommendation have been completed and sent.

Follow up with colleges to be certain that all of the parts of the application have been received: scores, high school transcript, application/essay(s)/ supplements, letters of recommendation, counselor recommendation.

Most colleges have an “application status check” link on their Web sites, and many colleges will notify students via e-mail if pieces of the application are missing.