Below is a timeline of key steps that high school students should take to ensure success in school and planning for college.

Sophomore Year

1. Make an appointment to meet with your school counselor. Ask if the courses you are taking are the best possible for college preparation.
2. Develop good study habits and time management skills.
3. Look at your interests in after-school activities.
4. Strongly consider taking the PSAT/NMSQT (as preparation for taking it officially in your junior year).
5. Browse through college materials. They are available at your school. Visit web sites of colleges you may want to attend.

Junior Year

1. Take the PSAT/NMSQT and your first round of the SAT Reasoning Test (SAT) and/or ACT Assessment.
2. Take SAT Subject Test where applicable.
3. Start thinking about what you might like to study in college.
4. Consider the kind of college you might like to go to. How much do size, location, academic programs, and social and cultural environment matter to you?
5. Review catalogs, newspapers and other materials from colleges that interest you.
6. Look into scholarships and other financial aid opportunities.
7. Make the efforts to attend college fairs and visit some colleges.
8. Maintain good grades and sign up for more difficult courses for your senior year.

Summer after Junior year

1. Read a lot! Keep writing, too. Review high school math.
2. Get a summer job to gain experience and help pay for college.
3. Begin to narrow your list of colleges.
4. Interview with college representatives, if appropriate.

Senior Year

1. Take your second round of SAT and/or ACT Assessment, if necessary.
2. Take SAT subject tests where applicable.
3. Continue to attend college fairs and visit colleges if possible.
4. Apply for financial aid and scholarships.
5. Take Advanced Placement Programs (AP) exams if appropriate.
6. Wait for admission decisions and financial aid awards. Decide which college to attend.

Summer after Senior year

1. Read on your own or from book lists provided by your college.
2. Work to gain experience and help pay for college.
3. Attend orientation activities offered by your college.

Get ready for college life!