Application Guides/ Timeline

Note that LHS is a SEMESTER school, not just for the 2024-2025 school year, but even in the years that we operated on a trimester calendar. This means that on college applications, students should indicate that LHS is a SEMESTER school for all years.

• Create/ update your Brag Sheet. Click for Instructions to Create a Brag Sheet
   
• Finalize your college application list, organizing colleges into Reach, Target, and Likely categories. See How to Narrow Down Your College List
   
• Keep track of application requirements, deadlines and progress. Create your own spreadsheet or click to make a copy of the LHS College Application Checklist
   
• Keep a spreadsheet of all usernames and passwords
   
• Start (1) filling out college applications and (2) drafting college essays. Many applications open on August 1. See College Application Links & Information for application formats, essay prompts, and application opening dates/ deadline information.
   
• Take or retake the SAT or ACT, if needed. See SAT & ACT Course Registration & Preparation Resources 
   
• Familiarize yourself with the financial aid process so you will be ready to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act application (CADAA) when the application opens on December 1, 2024 (projected date). See Financial Aid Application & Links for more information.

• If needed: ask teachers (or confirm with those who have previously agreed) if they will write recommendations for you. See Recommendations - When to Ask & What to Provide
   
• Continue working on your applications and essays. See College Application Links & Information for application formats, essay prompts, and application opening dates/ deadline information. 

You've submitted your applications...now what?

• Complete the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act application (CADAA) when the application opens on December 1, 2024 (projected date). Fill out by March 3, 2025 (this date is subject to change) to be considered for the Cal Grant. See Financial Aid Application & Links for more information. 
   
• Scholarships - Check the LHS Scholarship Page regularly for scholarships that have been posted with the College & Career Center.  Also, investigate other scholarships to which you may apply. This might include scholarships at the institutions to which you applied (check their financial aid webpages) and community or professional organizations that you/ your family is involved in.