AUGUST/SEPTEMBER

Here is a list of things that you can do RIGHT NOW, at your appropriate grade level, to prepare for college! It's a big, complex question, but I hope that the resources listed below are helpful to you. You can also "look ahead" -- what might you be doing this time next year?

Grades 9 + 10

College App & Admissions Timeline: Want to know what's coming, what you'll be doing in the next few years to prepare for college? This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade. This is a "long game" --- take note of what's on the horizon for you and your family, for now and later!
Activity Log: Get involved in a couple of clubs, sports or other extracurricular activities either at your school or in your local community. Keep track of your engagement on your SCOIR profile (or in some other tracking sheet!)
⭐How do I learn best? Take this quick quiz, and get study tips based on your learning style.
Challenge yourself academically: Take advantage of the course offerings, and don’t be afraid to ask about higher-level classes if you aren’t feeling challenged.
How to study effectively: Improve your study skills and build new habits with this free Coursera course.
⭐Be careful with your social media use: Any words or pictures you post are part of your permanent online record. If it’s something you wouldn’t want your grandparent to see, maybe don’t post it.

Study schedule: If you don’t have a plan in place, now is a great time to create one. Use a paper or online tool like The Shovel Study Planner to stay organized and help manage your time.
Take some time to prepare a bit for the PSAT -- you'll take it in October of your junior year at The City School! These practice tests are a great way to get experience with the content and timing of standardized exams. Doing some casual practice can help you prepare for these in the future.
Start exploring possible careers: There are so many possibilities out there. What sounds interesting to you? Start with your interests and see where your research takes you.

Grade 11

College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade. Take some time to look at what is coming up and what you can anticipate for the future.
The Shovel Study Planner: Get ready for a very busy fall with this simple, low-cost app for building an effective study plan and developing strong study skills.
PSAT: You'll take this assessment again in October. Strong test scores as a junior may qualify you for academic honors, including National Merit as well as programs and recruitment for Black, Latinx, Indigenous, rural, first-generation and low-income students. You can prepare for this test now, using Khan Academy's Official SAT practice!
Compass Guide to Admissions Testing: Start mapping out a standardized testing plan with the goal of taking the SAT or ACT at least once before the end of the school year.
Connect with college admission reps: Sign up for a few sessions with college representatives when they visit your high school this fall. Also check their websites for information on virtual information sessions and local events. Check out the calendar here for College Rep Visits at The City School!
Keep up with your College Guidance course activities! You're exploring a lot about yourself -- your career aspirations, talents, strengths, life goals, and more! Invest some high quality thinking time as you consider your options. If you need to experience things more hands-on, consider getting an internship, doing a job shadow, or volunteering with an organization doing work for a cause you care about!

Grade 12

This is a critical time for seniors. By this point, you should (we hope) have a close-to-final college list and be working on your college applications.

Letters of recommendation: This is a good time to check in with your recommenders to make sure they know your deadlines. And if you haven't already, read this guide and then ask your teacher(s) if they’ll write a letter on your behalf.
College applications are live, as of August 1: Start familiarizing yourself with the information you need to gather. Some of the most popular applications include The Common Application, Coalition Application, and the Common Black College Application.
How to Write a College Essay: Wondering how to get started on your college essays? This step-by-step guide and this video will walk you through the process.
How to Decide Whether to Apply Early Decision or Early Action: Get answers to the most common questions and make sure you understand the limitations and the financial implications. ED/EA deadlines fall as early as October 15th. Communicate with Mrs. CR as soon as possible if you plan to apply "early" like this!
FAFSA + CSS PROFILE: These two forms are critical to your financial aid process. All schools require the FAFSA; the CSS PROFILE is only required by some schools and scholarships. Submission windows open on October 1st.
Connect with college admission reps, either at your school, online or in your community. These sessions are important opportunities to let colleges know you’re considering attending their institution, which, in some cases, can help your chances.
Create a spreadsheet of requirements and deadlines: Keep track of application deadlines, number of required recommendation letters, scholarship deadlines, portfolio requirements, etc., all in one organized spot. AND THEN...make sure you update SCOIR to reflect your preferences, intentions, priorities, deadlines, and requirements!