SAAS College Advising: Wrapping Up Your College Process – Important Next Steps

Dear 12th Graders and Families,

Congratulations! You have worked incredibly hard throughout this college process, and we are so proud of your dedication and achievements. As you approach the final stretch of your college journey, we know this time can bring a mix of emotions—excitement, relief, uncertainty, and even some difficult decisions. We are here to support you every step of the way.

To help guide you through the final stages, we have created a Final Steps for Wrapping Up Your College Process checklist, which includes important information on decision-making, financial aid, waitlists, and more. This resource will help ensure that you meet all deadlines, communicate with colleges appropriately, and make the best decision for your future.

View/Download the Checklist Here

Key Considerations

• Review Your Offers Carefully: Consider academics, support services, financial aid, and campus environment when making your choice.
• Stay on a Waitlist Only If You’re Truly Interested: If you remain on a waitlist, be proactive by sending an update to the college and securing a spot at another institution in the meantime.
• Meet all Deadlines: It is your responsibility to follow the appropriate steps to confirm your enrollment and respond by the college’s deadline.
• Submit Only One Enrollment Deposit: Double-depositing is unethical and can result in losing both acceptances.
• Notify Colleges You Are Not Attending: Declining other offers opens spots to other students.
• Stay on Top of Financial Aid: If you are waiting for financial aid offers, reach out to colleges directly to check for updates.
• Maintain Strong Academics: The college you plan to attend and any college where you let us know you are pursuing a waitlist will review your final transcript, and significant drops in grades could impact your admission.
• Plan for a Smooth Transition: Register for housing, review orientation details, and start preparing for your next chapter.

Save the Date

“The Transition to College” – a virtual event on Tuesday, May 19 at 7:00 PM (Zoom link forthcoming) 

• Co-hosted by area independent schools, the event welcomes college guest speakers to discuss the challenges, supports, and questions surrounding student and family transition. One of our partner host schools is currently finalizing details. When available, we will provide access information on the SAAS online calendar.

We understand that finalizing your college decision is a big moment, and we encourage you to take the time you need to reflect, discuss your options with your family, and reach out to us if you need guidance. We are happy to support you through conversations about financial aid, waitlist decisions, or any other concerns you may have.

This is an exciting time, and we want you to know that no matter where you end up, you have bright opportunities ahead. We have seen time and again that students thrive where they feel engaged and supported, and we are confident you will find a place where you will grow and succeed.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your college advisor. We appreciate your hard work, and we look forward to celebrating your next steps with you!

All the best,

Seattle Academy College Advising

collegeadvising@seattleacademy.org

Visit our College Advising for 12th Grade Resource Online