TO DO: 

• Create your californiacolleges.edu account and explore site

• Take challenging classes in core academic subjects. Most colleges require four years of English, at least three years of social studies (history, civics, geography, economics, etc.), three years of mathematics, and three years of science, and many require two years of a foreign language. Round out your course load with classes in computer science and the arts.

• Get involved in school- or community-based activities that interest you or let you explore career interests. Consider working, volunteering, and/or participating in academic enrichment programs, summer workshops, and camps with specialty focuses such as music, arts, or science. Remember—it’s quality (not quantity) that counts.

• Ask your guidance counselor or teachers what Advanced Placement courses are available, whether you are eligible, and how to enroll in them.

• Use the U.S. Department of Labor’s career search tool to research your career options.

• Start a list of your awards, honors, paid and volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. Update it throughout high school.

• Check out KnowHow2Go: The Four Steps to College, which suggests some actions you can take as you start thinking about education beyond high school.

• Browse the College Scorecard to see what types of schools interest you. Big or small? Close to home or far away? Programs focused on engineering or art? Keep your preferences in mind as you talk with your parents and school counselors.

• Learn about budgeting your money.

• Explore reasons to consider college or career school, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your parents, school counselor, and older students as you prepare.

Source: https://studentaid.gov/resources/prepare-for-college/checklists/9th-grade