University Timeline

Class of 2020:

Welcome to your most important year of high school!

Universities make their assessment of the type of student you will be, if offered a place on their campus, based on your overall academic performance but especially during the 3rd year. For students applying to universities in the USA, many university deadlines occur before winter break; thus, your grade 11 marks will be the last complete year available for them.

Your ability to successfully complete year 1 of the Diploma Programme could have rewarding implications for your admissions prospects next year!

In the interim, please use the following timeline to pace yourselves through these next few months.

Fall

  • Earn the highest grades possible! This is the most important year of high school.
  • Continue your extracurricular activities from previous years/previous schools. Universities like to see well-rounded students. Pursue leadership positions where available.
  • Attend college fairs and QAD university visits. Speak with the university representatives when they visit, they will be a part of the decision making process!
  • Take the PSAT, and then prepare for the SAT in the Spring.
  • Use Khan Academy to prepare for SAT testing. Use ACT's Online Prep to get ready for their exam.
  • Come with questions and prepare to engage in the PSE sessions during TOK rotation days. These will occur every 3 weeks. You may view the curriculum timeline here
  • Get to know your DP teachers and your Counselor! They may need to write an appraisal to the university on your behalf next year.


Spring

  • Take both the SAT I and the ACT if you will apply to a university that requires one of them; repeat the exam that you performed the best on. Students who intend to apply Early next year, will need to complete testing by the end of this year.
  • Meet with the College Counselor for your required University Planning meeting; bring a parent or older sibling.
  • Visit university campuses during Spring break, if possible.
  • Continue attending QAD university visits. Speak with university representatives when they visit, they will be a part of the decision process!
  • Complete a detailed and thorough resume in preparation for letters of recommendation next year; this will be sent by the Counselor via Google docs.
  • Consider who you will approach about writing your recommendation(s) next year; see the College Counselor for guidance.
  • Prepare and perform your absolute best on your final exams; they are the catalyst for your predicted grades next year.
  • Take advantage of any summer immersion experiences available to you based on your interests.