While some people may think preparing for college their senior year is early enough, it is best to be overly prepared and start as early as freshmen year of high school.
Some tips to help prepare for college:
- Work on your GPA
- Consider taking AP/ CLEP courses
- Figure out what extracurricular activities to take
- Work on building relationships for recommendation letters
- Research universities and try to visit the campus in person
- Take the SAT and ACT
- Apply for outside scholarships
- Start applying to colleges
Freshman and Sophomore of High School Years
During your freshman and sophomore year is a good time to take review where you are currently at and where you need to go. In other words take some time to figure out what you are interested in, what experience you have, and where you can make improvements both educationally and socially. Doing this will really help you when finding and applying to colleges later on.
You should focus on:
- Academics: This is the most important part of preparing for college. If you have not really put much effort in the past now would be the time to start. Look at what your current GPA is and if you already have an idea which college you want to attend start to look at what GPA they look for to get admitted. This would also be a good time to meet with your academic counselor/advisor to see what advancement classes you can take to boost your GPA.
- Extracurricular Activities: Join as many clubs, sports, or community service programs that you can. College like to see a well rounded background. When possible run for office in these organizations. Not only will this help you for college but it can also help you network and gain work experience for future job applications as well.
- Standardized Testing: Start taking practice test for SAT and ACT to see where you are at currently. Once you have done this you can identify areas for improvement or start looking for tutors.
Junior Year of High School
Your junior year is crucial in the college application timeline:
- Courses: Continue taking rigorous courses and consider dual-enrollment options if available. Also look at taking CLEP tests (if your college accepts them.)
- Standardized Testing: Take the SAT or ACT in the spring of your Junior year. If needed use the summer to prep for retakes in the fall of your senior year if needed.
- College Research: Start compiling a list of colleges that interest you. Consider factors like location, size, programs offered, and campus culture.
- Letters of Recommendation: Begin identifying teachers or mentors who could write your letters of recommendation. Approach them early, ideally in the spring.
Senior Year of High School
Your senior year is the final stretch in your college preparation journey. Here’s what to focus on:
- Applications: Start working on your college applications early. Pay special attention to your personal statement and supplemental essays.
- Financial Aid: Research and apply for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it becomes available normally in October. Also reach out to schools to see if they use any additional application to award aid.
- Campus Visits: If possible, visit the campuses of your top-choice schools. This can help you make a more informed decision and may demonstrate interest to the college.
- Final Decision: After receiving acceptance letters, carefully review your options and make your final decision before the deadline, typically May 1st.
Time will move fast and can feel overwhelming. while you prepare for college please don’t forget to enjoy high school. Take time to slow down and try new things. Make sure to not take on this task alone. Get help from teachers, counselors, parents, mentors, and if you feel like you don’t have anyone please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
This is amazing info as a parent looking to help guide my highschool child navigate this crazy next step. Keep the info coming please!