Rising seniors should create a plan NOW for the college admissions process.  Creating a plan allows you to prioritize tasks to ensure that all applications are completed by their deadlines.  Early decision and early action applications are due November 1st, with other school deadlines following anywhere from November through January.  It is important to understand when each application is due and plan accordingly.  Keep in mind that many large public universities practice "rolling admissions", which means that applications are reviewed on a first come, first decided basis.  Your child will want to apply when there are the most spots available.  Do not leave applications to the last minute--it shows.