You'll need to double-check to ensure you're eligible to register for classes before the registration period opens. Library fines, overdue immunizations and other issues may interfere with registration, so log into your student account to ensure you're ready to sign up for classes. You'll also need to make sure financial aid is taken care of, so fill out your FAFSA early and check with your school's financial aid office to see if anything's missing.
Going back to school after a break often means getting up and going to bed earlier, in addition to working longer days. Gradually shifting your schedule can help your body avoid the shock of a sudden schedule change. Try going to bed 30 minutes earlier every night until you're on track to start school. If you work in addition to going to school, you'll need to check with your boss well in advance of the first day to ensure your work schedule won't interfere with classes. You might need to give two weeks' notice, for example, if you're shifting from full-time to part-time or if your school schedule means you'll only be available at certain hours.
Back-to-school time might not mean you need to buy crayons and binders anymore, but you'll still need the basic necessities to get through class -- notebooks, pens, pencils, a backpack and textbooks. Check your course syllabuses to see what supplies you need, and order your textbooks before school starts so you don't fall behind in the early weeks of the semester. You may also want to stock up on basic house or dorm supplies such as groceries so that you don't have to waste the first weeks of school scrambling to get the basic things you need.
The stress of adjusting to school can be overwhelming if you've spent a leisurely summer traveling or spending time with friends. Making a time budget can help you stay on track. Review your course syllabuses and schedule to determine how much time you'll be in class and estimate how much time you'll need to spend studying and working on homework. Then incorporate time spent working at your job and transportation to determine if your school schedule is feasible. Getting into a scheduling groove can help you adjust more readily. For example, if you know you devote Tuesday nights to studying, then you might be able to dedicate Wednesday nights to relaxing with friends.