Build a strong foundation.

• Focus on earning strong grades from the start; this will set you apart.

• Learn what your graduation requirements are.

• Get involved in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or other extracurricular activities.

• Explore your interests through classes and activities.

• Develop good study habits and time management skills.

• Example: Pomodoro Technique (Study for 25 minutes, pause for 5, repeat.)

• Meet with your school counselor to discuss your academic goals.

• Begin tracking your achievements, awards, and volunteer hours.

Explore and prepare.

• Continue taking challenging courses that fit your goals.

• Stay involved in extracurricular activities and start looking for leadership opportunities.

• Research colleges, trade schools, apprenticeships, and career paths. It may be whichever path you believe fits you best!

1. Learn about the different ways colleges provide financial aid, including institutional aid and private scholarships.

2. Research colleges that have support programs for immigrant, undocumented, or first-generation students.

• Begin preparing for standardized tests (SAT or ACT) if required by your target schools. Keep in mind that some colleges are test-optional.

• Attend college fairs, career fairs, or campus visits if possible.

• Start building relationships with trusted teachers, counselors, or mentors who can support you throughout the college application process.

• Continue documenting your activities, awards, and accomplishments.

Plan for your future.

• Take the most rigorous courses you can successfully manage.

• Narrow down your college or career options.

• Visit colleges or attend virtual information sessions.

• Begin seriously preparing for standardized tests (SAT or ACT).

• Free resources: Bluebook, Khan Academy, and YouTube

• Build your resume and begin brainstorming your personal statement.

• High school resumes should be one page long with education, experience, extracurricular, awards/honors, and skills or interests sections.

• Many people share their personal statement on social media. We suggest looking at this to get ideas and inspiration on what you may write, but avoid plagiarism.

• Research scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

  1. Make sure to research each college's financial aid policies individually, as they vary. 

• Ask teachers, mentors, or counselors if they would be willing to write letters of recommendation.

• If needed, connect with a college access organization or strengthen your relationship with a trusted advisor who understands your circumstances.

• Create a list of application deadlines.

Apply with confidence.

• Complete college, trade school, or apprenticeship applications.

• Finalize and submit your personal statement and required documents.

• Complete financial aid applications that do not require U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency.

• Examples: TASFA, Institutional Aid, or private scholarships.

• Make sure to check out our scholarship page for some options.

• Monitor your email regularly for updates from schools and scholarship organizations.

• Compare admission offers and financial aid packages.

• Select the institution of your choice!

• Finish the school year strong and maintain your grades up until graduation.

Congratulations!