The Graduation Checklist

Figuring out life after high school can feel like a lot, especially if no one's walked you through it before. This checklist breaks it down by grade level, so you always know what to focus on next. If your school partners with Career Compass, your coach can walk through any of this with you in person. Not sure if your school partners with us? Email careercompass@careercompassla.org.

6-8

Grades 6-8

Building the Foundation

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It's not too early. The habits and choices you build now shape what options are open to you later.

6-8 Explore different careers and interests, even ones you've never heard of Keep your grades strong. Louisiana's TOPS scholarship looks at your full high school record Get involved in at least one club, sport, or activity you actually enjoy Start a simple list of things you're good at and things you like doing Find out if your school has a Career Compass coach, and say hi

9-10

Grades 9-10

Building Your Path

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This is when your course choices start actually affecting your options after graduation.

9-10 Understand your diploma pathway options with your counselor or coach Take the PSAT if your school offers it Take the PreACT if your school offers it, a low-stakes way to see where you stand before the real ACT Start researching careers connected to your interests Ask about Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities like job shadows Review your Individual Graduation Plan (IGP) with an adult at least once this year Keep your grades on track for TOPS eligibility

Grade 11

Junior Year: Get Serious

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Junior year is when planning turns into action. This is the year to start narrowing things down.

11 Take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall Take the SAT or ACT at least once Meet with your Career Compass coach to talk through college, workforce, or military plans Start a list of colleges, technical programs, or military branches you're interested in Visit campuses or attend virtual info sessions if you can Ask a teacher who knows you well if they'd write you a letter of recommendation next year Look into Work-Based Learning or internship opportunities for senior year Create a free account at studentaid.gov so you're ready for the FAFSA

BEYOND

Beyond Graduation

Staying On Track

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Graduating is a huge milestone, but the first year after is where a lot of plans get tested. This part matters too.

Stay connected with your Career Compass coach through Beyond Graduation support Renew your FAFSA each year if you're continuing your education Check in on your enrollment status every semester Reach out if things get off track. That's exactly what your coach is there for

Pick Your Path

The checklist above covers the big picture. Here's what to focus on depending on where you're headed.

College

Take the SAT or ACT
Complete the FAFSA
Apply for TOPS and the Louisiana GO Grant
Submit applications to your chosen schools
Compare financial aid offers before deciding
Confirm enrollment and housing

Workforce & Technical

Research technical colleges and credential programs
Ask about TOPS Tech eligibility
Look into Work-Based Learning and apprenticeships
Build a basic resume with your coach
Apply directly to your program of choice
Confirm start dates and required certifications

Military

Talk to a recruiter from the branch you're interested in
Take the ASVAB
Understand physical fitness requirements and start preparing
Gather required documents, like your birth certificate and Social Security card
Ask about enlistment timelines
Talk to your coach about how military service fits your longer-term goals

Financial Aid, Quick Reference

The programs students ask about most.

TOPS

Louisiana's tuition award for eligible in-state students.

mylosfa.la.gov →

FAFSA

Required for federal aid, grants, and most scholarships. Opens October 1.

studentaid.gov →

Louisiana GO Grant

Need-based state aid on top of TOPS or other awards.

mylosfa.la.gov →

Scholarships

Our curated list of real scholarship programs worth applying to.

See Scholarship Picks →

Quick Questions

When should I start preparing for graduation in Louisiana?

As early as 6th grade, though it's never too late to start. Career Compass works with students from 6th through 12th grade, and the earlier you start exploring your options, the more choices you'll have later.

When does the FAFSA open?

The FAFSA typically opens October 1 each year for the following school year. Filing early can help with certain aid that's awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Do I have to go to a four-year college after graduation?

No. Louisiana students have three main paths after high school: college, workforce and technical training, or military service. Career Compass helps students plan for all three, not just college.

Want to walk through this with a real person?

If your school partners with Career Compass, your coach can help you work through every step of this checklist in person, for free.

Get in Touch

The Louisiana Graduation Checklist