The month before you head to college can be quite stressful. After all, you have a lot on your plate! This before-college checklist can help you track all of the tasks you need to get completed so you can be sure you’re first week at college (and your entire semester) is stress-free and enjoyable!
Packing List
Did you know that many college students, especially freshman, are guilty of over-packing? Make a list of your necessities first before adding items you can live without but would like to have with you. You’ll want to ensure you have enough space in your dorm while having all the things you need for daily life.
Attend Orientation
Many colleges and universities have orientation in the month leading up to freshman year. Don’t skip this! It will cover important forms and information you need to attend. Additionally, you’ll learn a ton about your new school–anything from resource centers to interesting student organizations will be displayed. Check it out!
Fill Out All Forms
It’s likely your college will send you forms to fill out to attend in the fall. Don’t put these off. Get them in as soon as possible to avoid any hiccups.
Review Health Insurance
Colleges require students to have health insurance. You’re most likely on your parents’ plan still, so make sure you understand their coverage. You may also want to pick out a new doctor or dentist if you’re going far away from home.
Keep Applying for Scholarships
Even if you have your financial aid figured out and your tuition paid for, it’s never too late to apply to scholarships. In fact, you should continue to search for them throughout your entire education.
Review Finances
From scholarships to financial aid to your savings, now is the time to go over your finances and expenses. Is everything paid off with the school?
Talk to Roommates
If you’re going to have a roommate and you don’t quite know them yet, the weeks leading up to move in day are an excellent opportunity to get to know them. Try talking to them through email or social media, and consider discussing each others’ plans for the dorm. You’ll want to know what they’re like, understand their sleeping habits, and hopefully become friends!
Learn New Skills
Have you been putting off learning how to do laundry? Or dishes? Or cook? Now is the perfect chance to get those skills under your belt. Ask your parents how to do the laundry or how to cook up a quick meal. You’ll be thankful during college and after!
Have Fun
While you definitely have a lot to tackle in the next four weeks before move in day, don’t forget to have fun. You want to take time to hang out with your family, friends, and loved ones. Consider taking a trip or just doing what you truly enjoy during this time period.
Create Your Own Before College Checklist
College is big step in life, and it can be stressful as well as scary. Completing these different things now though can make the difference come the fall semester.
| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
5.50%-16.12%* Variable
3.99%-15.61%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
|
|
5.54% - 15.70% Variable
3.99% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
 |
5.00% - 17.99% Variable
3.49% - 17.99% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.00% - 13.75% Variable
3.99% - 13.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
5.66% - 14.72% Variable
3.69% - 14.56% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
3.70% - 8.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 16.85% Variable
3.69% - 16.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
5.00% - 14.22% Variable
3.69% - 14.22% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
