Fall

Spring

You will receive the results of your PSAT. Read your score report and consult your school counselor to determine how you might improve on future standardized tests.

• Register for the March SAT Reasoning Test or the April ACT with Writing if you are enrolled in Pre- Calculus. If not, plan to take the SAT Reasoning Test in May or the ACT with Writing in June. For step-by-step instructions, read the How to Register for the SAT guide.

• Register for the June SAT Subject Tests. June of your Junior Year is the best time to take the SAT Subject Tests. You should take 3 subject tests in your strongest subjects. For example, if you speak Spanish, you should definitely take the Spanish Subject Test. If you are planning on taking math, take the Math Level 2. Not all SAT Subject Tests are given on every test date. Check the calendar carefully to determine when the Subject Tests you want are offered.

• Prepare for the SAT Reasoning Test or ACT by signing up for a prep course, using the College Board's SAT Preparation Center .

• See the ACT/SAT Concordance Table to see if your SAT or ACT score is higher.

Begin to make a preliminary list of colleges you would like to investigate further. Surf the Internet and use the college resources in the guidance office or career center.

• Meet with your counselor to discuss your preliminary list of colleges. Discuss whether your initial list of colleges meets your needs and interests (academic program, size, location, cost, etc.) and whether you are considering colleges where you are likely to be admitted. You should be optimistic and realistic when applying to colleges.

• Ask your parents for your Social Security number (required on many college applications). If you were never issued a Social Security number, contact the closest Social Security office as soon as possible to obtain a number or talk with your counselor to discuss this confidentially.

• Request admissions and financial aid information from colleges websites. There is no charge and no obligation to obtain general information about admission and financial aid.

When selecting your senior courses, colleges expect you to continue to challenge yourself academically.

Look into summer jobs or apply for special summer academic or enrichment programs. Colleges love to see students using their knowledge and developing their skills and interests.

• Get a jump start on summer activities-consider enrolling in an academic course at a local college, pursuing a summer school program, applying for an internship, working, or volunteering. If you work, save part of your earnings for college. 

• Begin visiting colleges. Many colleges have Preview Days, overnight stays, and campus tours. Call for information or look online.

Summer 

After school ends, get on the road to visit colleges. Seeing the college firsthand, taking a tour and talking to students can be the greatest help in deciding whether or not a school is right for you. Although it is ideal to visit colleges during the academic year, going in the summer will be valuable. Admission offices employ their students to give tours and answer questions from prospective students and their parents.

• Visit colleges, take tours, have interviews and ask questions. Make college visiting a family event. Involve your parents and siblings in every step of your application process. Choosing the right college is a tough decision; the opinions of those who know you best can provide helpful insight into which college is best for you.

• Continue to refine your list of potential colleges and universities.

Begin preparing for the actual application process:

• Write your personal statement

•  If you are an athlete and plan on playing in college, contact the coaches at the schools to which you are applying and ask about intercollegiate and intramural sports programs and athletic scholarships. Complete the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse form if you hope to play Division I or II sports. (This form cannot be mailed until you finish your sixth semester of high school.)