Summer’s coming to an end and the kids are headed back to school. For those of you with High School Seniors, I’m sure you are feeling the pressure to ensure your kids are set up for success. There are so many things to take into consideration and many items that need to be added to your budget to ensure your family doesn’t endure financial stress.

I’m sure if your child is graduating and considering joining the military or moving on to college in a different city or state, you already have a lot on your mind, but luckily leading up to graduation you can make this last year memorable. You will need to be organized and ensure your student stays on top of all the important milestones as well. I highly recommend buying a hardcopy calendar as many things will be due at different times throughout the year.

Here is a quarterly breakdown that you may find helpful:

Fall

• Visit campuses
• Finalize list of potential schools
• Take standardized tests
• Ask for recommendation letters
• Meet with counselors
• Submit financial aid forms as needed

Winter

• Complete applications & stay on top of deadlines

Spring

• Watch for mail notifications
• Prep for last standardized tests
• Continue searching for scholarships

Summer

• Save for college expenses
• Continue applying for scholarships

You need to ensure you budget and set expectations for the following expenses:

• Senior Photos
• Class Ring
• College Application Fees
• Yearbooks
• Prom 
• Graduation Cap and Gown
• Graduation Outfit & Invitations
• Graduation Party
  • Hot Tip – Grab after New Year’s clearance sales of all of the 2025 items for super cheap!

Early preparation is key to ensure your family and graduate get to the finish line with the least amount of stress. Enjoy the year and make lots of memories while you can.

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