As the excitement of receiving college acceptance letters settles in, the next big challenge for families is preparing for the transition to college life. To make sure everything is in order and nothing is overlooked, we’ve created a detailed checklist for students who are matriculating this fall. Whether you’re in the East Bay, South Bay, or beyond, this guide will help ensure your senior is fully prepared for their first year of college.

1. Pay the Enrollment Fee

Deadline: As soon as the acceptance is confirmed (typically by May 1st, National College Decision Day).

Once your student has decided on the college they’ll be attending, paying the enrollment fee is the first step in officially committing to the school. This fee is typically non-refundable but secures their spot for the upcoming academic year. Make sure this is handled promptly, usually by May 1st, to avoid any last-minute stress.

2. Decline Other Offers

Deadline: Immediately after committing to one school, ideally by May 1st.

After making the big decision, it’s time to notify other schools about your student's decision. Declining offers from other schools (or letting them know they won’t be attending) should be done as soon as possible, ideally by May 1st, to ensure that other students can take advantage of the spots available.

3. Check Housing Deposit Deadline

Deadline: Check the housing portal immediately after accepting the offer (deadlines vary by school, often by May/June).

Many colleges require a housing deposit to secure on-campus housing. This deadline varies by institution, but it’s important to check the housing portal immediately after accepting your offer. This ensures your student will have a place to live when the school year begins, especially since some housing options fill up quickly.

4. Review Financial Aid/Scholarship Details

Deadline: Within 2-3 weeks after admission to ensure everything is in order.

It’s crucial to confirm all financial aid and scholarship details shortly after admission. This includes reviewing loan offers, grants, and any awards your student has received. Missing any required forms or actions could delay disbursement and cause unnecessary stress as the semester approaches.

5. Sign Up for Accepted/Admitted Student Visitation Days

Deadline: Within a month after admission, as spots fill quickly (preferably by May/June).

Admitted student visitation days are a great opportunity for your student to get familiar with the campus, meet other incoming students, and finalize their decision-making process. Register early as these events fill up quickly and are typically scheduled within a few months of admission.

6. Register for Orientation/Move-In

Deadline: As soon as the registration opens, typically in June-July.

Orientation and move-in dates are important milestones in your student’s college journey. Many schools open registration for these events in the summer. Check your college’s website and register as soon as possible to ensure your student gets their preferred move-in date.

7. Follow Your College on Social Media/Join Group Chats

Deadline: ASAP after admission to connect with incoming students and find a roommate.

Social media groups and college-sponsored platforms are excellent ways for your student to connect with their future classmates. By following the school’s official social media accounts and joining group chats, they can get to know their peers, learn about campus events, and even find a roommate.

8. Check Your College Email Regularly

Deadline: Start immediately after acceptance to stay on top of important communications from your college.

Once your student is admitted, their college email becomes the primary mode of communication for all important updates. Make sure your student checks their email regularly to stay on top of deadlines, documents, and other critical information.

9. If Greek Life is a Thing, Pay Attention to Dates

Deadline: Check early (some activities may begin before the school year, often prior to freshman orientation in August/September).

If your student is interested in joining Greek life, it’s essential to check the specific recruitment dates for sororities and fraternities. Many schools have events and recruitment processes that start before orientation, so it’s important to plan ahead.

10. Start Pulling Together Legal Documents/Make an Important Documents Folder

Deadline: By June/July (ensure all forms like medical release, power of attorney, and emergency contacts are in order).

Be sure your student has a folder with all necessary legal documents, including medical releases, power of attorney, and emergency contact forms. These are crucial for medical or legal emergencies and should be organized and submitted to the school by summer.

11. Look Into Renters Insurance

Deadline: By August. If living off-campus, secure insurance early. For on-campus, check if the school requires proof of coverage.

If your student will be living off-campus, it’s a good idea to start looking into renters insurance to protect their belongings. Many colleges also require students to have renters insurance for on-campus housing, so check the school’s requirements early.

12. Order Textbooks/Supplies

Deadline: Mid-July to August – order early to save money and ensure you have everything needed for the first day of class.

Ordering textbooks and supplies early can save money and reduce the stress of last-minute shopping. Many schools have textbook rental programs or digital options, so research the best ways to secure materials for your student’s courses.

13. Set Up a Bank Account or Arrange for Banking Services

Deadline: July/August if needed for living expenses and school-related costs.

If your student needs to open a new bank account, or if they plan to handle their finances independently, now is the time to set that up. Many students prefer to open an account with a bank that has a local branch near their college, or use online banking services for ease of access.

14. Check Vaccination and Health Record Requirements

Deadline: By August – ensure immunizations are up-to-date and any required health forms are submitted.

Most colleges have specific health requirements, such as vaccinations, that must be met before students can register for classes. Make sure all medical forms are submitted well in advance, and that your student’s immunizations are up-to-date to avoid delays.

Conclusion

The college admissions process doesn’t end with an acceptance letter. In fact, there’s still much to do in the months leading up to your student’s first day of classes. Following this checklist will help you stay organized and ensure your student is fully prepared to begin their college journey. If you’re in the East Bay or South Bay areas, StrivePath is here to guide you through the transition with personalized academic planning, college admissions support, and strategies for success. Let us help you navigate this exciting chapter with confidence.