Senior Year To-Do List
Preparing for College? Here are the Steps:
1. Determine which schools you should apply to!
- Consider minimum GPA and test score (SAT/ACT) requirements.
- Consider cost.
- Consider location.
- Consider school activities, such as sports and Greek Life.
- Consider demographic makeup and school culture.
2. Complete Residency Determination Service (RDS)
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The Residency Determination Service (RDS) is REQUIRED to apply to any public or private college in North Carolina. RDS proves you’ve lived in NC for at least one year so you can qualify for in-state tuition
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You must complete RDS with a parent or legal guardian — you CANNOT finish it without their information. Don’t delay — RDS is a key step in your college application process
3. Apply to college!
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CFNC – for North Carolina community colleges and universities
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Common App – for NC and out-of-state colleges and universities
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Worried about application fees? The Guidance Office has fee waivers available!
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Don’t forget to talk to the Senior Counselor to have your transcripts sent to the colleges you apply to!
4. Complete the FAFSA
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The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is how you apply for federal, state, and college grants — that’s money for college you don’t have to pay back!
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ALL eligible students should complete the FAFSA, even if you think you may not qualify for aid.
Both the student and a parent must create an FSA ID at studentaid.gov.
Once you both have an FSA ID, you can start your FAFSA and unlock opportunities for college funding
5. Apply for scholarships!
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While the FAFSA can award you federal, state, and college grants, don’t stop there — apply for additional scholarships too!
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Local scholarships give you a better chance since you’re only competing against other local students.
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Duplin County scholarships will be released in the Spring Semester.