SEPT - NOV

• Get serious about your schoolwork if you haven’t already. Junior year grades are extremely important in the college admissions process, as is the rigor of your coursework.
  
• Take the PSAT, which is given ONLY in OCTOBER to prepare you for the SAT in the spring. Begin prepping for the SAT. Low-income students should bring their income tax form to their guidance office to show eligibility for fee waivers.
  
• Get involved with school and community activities - colleges are looking for this!
  
• If there is a class that you have done exceptionally well in and the teacher knows you, consider getting a recommendation as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the last minute.

JAN - JUNE

• Begin researching scholarships. It’s not too early!
  
• Schedule and appt with your college counselor to discuss college options.
  
• Register for the spring SAT or ACT. Most schools accept either test. You may want to take both the SAT & the ACT. The ACT examines knowledge obtained in school whereas the SAT is an aptitude test. Visit www.collegeboard.com to view dates and register for tests.
  
• Comprise a list of colleges that you are interested in attending. Make sure to keep in mind the characteristics of a college that are important to you - size, location, cost, academic rigor, majors, social environment and diversity. Make sure you have a least two safety schools.
  
• Discuss with parents/guardians their limitations on your college choices.
  
• Attend college fairs and gather information on schools that have majors that interest you.
  
• Start visiting schools. It is best to plan to be on campus while school is in session so that you can visit classes and talk to students and professors.
  
• Take AP tests, which will give you a chance to earn college credit. Visit www.collegeboard.com to view dates and get more information.
  
• Register for SAT II subject tests if applicable.
  
• For information on summer programs, please come to the guidance office.
  
• During the summer months, continue visiting schools.