Goals: Build strong academic habits and explore interests.

• Focus on earning strong grades—colleges look at all four years.
   

• Get involved in extracurriculars (clubs, sports, community service, arts) to discover passions.
   

• Start developing time management and study skills.
   

• Build relationships with teachers and counselors.
   

• Read widely to strengthen vocabulary and comprehension.
   

• Keep a record of accomplishments, awards, and activities.
   

• Explore career fields and note subjects you enjoy most.
   

Begin light test exposure—try a PSAT 8/9 or practice SAT/ACT questions to understand the format.

Goals: Develop interests into strengths and start academic planning.

• Continue challenging coursework (consider Honors or AP if available).
   

• Take the PSAT 10 for practice—no official score impact, but helps prep for junior year PSAT/NMSQT.
   

• Deepen involvement in a few activities; aim for leadership or tangible contributions.
   

• Attend college fairs or virtual sessions to learn about different schools.
   

• Research summer programs, internships, or volunteer work related to your interests.
   

• Meet with your counselor to discuss academic progress and course selection for junior year.
   

Begin researching potential careers and majors that match your interests.

Goals: Build your academic profile, take standardized tests, and begin college exploration seriously.

• Take challenging courses (AP, IB, or dual enrollment if possible).
   

• Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship.
   

• Take the SAT or ACT in spring (and retake in summer or fall if needed).
   

• Visit colleges (in-person or virtually) to get a sense of campus life and fit.
   

• Start developing a college list (reach, match, and safety schools).
   

• Begin brainstorming and drafting college essays over the summer.
   

• Ask teachers for letters of recommendation before summer break.
   

• Participate in research, internships, or academic competitions to strengthen your résumé.
   

Keep track of community service hours and leadership roles.

Goals: Apply strategically and prepare for the college transition.

• Finalize your college list by early fall.
   

• Complete the Common App, Coalition App, or individual college applications.
   

• Submit Early Decision/Early Action applications (usually due in November).
   

• Submit Regular Decision applications (typically due January–February).
   

• File the FAFSA and any required financial aid forms starting in October.
   

• Continue strong academic performance—colleges see your senior grades.
   

• Respond promptly to college requests for additional information.
   

• Compare financial aid offers and make your decision by May 1 (National College Decision Day).
   

Once enrolled, attend orientation and prepare for the college transition.

• After 9th: Explore volunteer work or enrichment classes.
   

• After 10th: Attend an academic camp or research program.
   

After 11th: Focus on essays, college visits, and finalizing test scores.