UB Undergraduate Admissions: High School Students

Two students walking on South Campus in the spring.

Tips for Prospective Freshmen

No matter what point you’re at in high school, it is never too early to begin thinking about college. At UB, we recognize that choosing the right college or university is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. But it doesn’t have to be a mystery. The timeline below should give you an overview of the steps you should be thinking about as you prepare for college. And if you ever have any questions, be sure to contact us—we’re here to help!

Sophomore Year

Fall Semester: Explore and discuss college options and begin to visit colleges and college fairs.
September: Register for the PSAT.
October: Take the PSAT. It is offered at most high schools.
Spring Semester: Make sure that you have selected the most appropriate courses for junior year.

Junior year

Throughout the year: Explore colleges in more depth and make campus visits when possible. Also begin to look into scholarship opportunities.
September: Register for the PSAT if you didn’t take it as a sophomore.
October: Take the PSAT if you haven’t already taken it.
December: PSAT results arrive.
Spring semester: Register for and take the ACT and/or the SAT.
Spring semester: Start to visit the colleges you are interested in.
Late spring semester: Carefully select courses for senior year, making sure you meet all requirements for graduation.
Summer months: Consider one of the summer programs colleges offer for outstanding juniors.

Senior year

Early fall semester: Sign up for and take the ACT and/or SAT (these are the preferred test dates for fall admission to UB).
Fall semester: Complete your applications—different colleges may have different deadlines and procedures, so be sure to stay on top of things.
December: Last SAT and ACT test dates (recommended for fall admission to UB)
January: Complete and submit in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
End of fall semester: Make sure all applications are completed and sent.
Spring semester: Make your choice!
May: If you are enrolled in any Advanced Placement courses, be sure to take the appropriate AP exams.
Summer: Enroll in the college you have chosen (and be sure to attend orientation!).

Last updated: September 10, 2009 9:45 am EST