File all federal financial-aid forms and apply for any state financial aid available. Talk to your guidance counselor about special forms your state might require. Have your high school send midyear grade reports to the colleges. Confirm that all your application materials, including transcripts, recommendations , and financial-aid forms, have been sent to your schools. Review college acceptances and compare financial-aid offers .
Some schools offer open-house weekends for prospective freshmen.
If you're having trouble deciding, consider attending one or more of these. Decide which college you'll attend, send your deposit, and notify other schools of your decision. World Report Inc. All rights reserved. Read our information page .