Tips for Junior Year

 Take your SAT/ACT.  Consider taking practice tests and taking prep courses.  Research the colleges you are interested in to see if test scores are optional, or required.

Focus on academic success!  It is important to take challenging courses that help you be competitive for college admissions, however it is equally important to do the best you can, get the best grades possible, and raise your GPA.  (The transcript sent to colleges will often only include 9-11th grades until 12th grade transcripts are updated).

Visit colleges!  One of the best ways to get a feel for the environment and culture of the school, and decide if it is one of your top choices is to visit them!  Get a campus tour and speak with an admissions counselor.

Create a Common App Account.  Be sure to use a personal email address that is professional!  You will not have access to your school email after you graduate.

Brainstorm essay ideas.  Practice writing and get teacher edits and feedback.  See your school counselor for additional guidance.

Narrow your college list.  Focus on 4-6 top choices.  Have a "reach" school and a "safe" school choice.