Preparing for the Next Steps

Take advantage of both virtual and in-person campus tours. Many colleges offer live virtual tours with student guides who can answer your questions in real-time. If possible, visit campuses in person to get a true feel for the environment. Pay attention to campus culture, facilities, and the surrounding community.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions officers with questions about academic programs, financial aid, or student life. Building a relationship with admissions can also demonstrate your interest in the school.

Begin categorizing schools into reach, match, and safety schools. This will help you focus your research and application efforts as you move into senior year.

Start by taking a diagnostic test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Based on your results, create a personalized study plan. Consider using test prep books, online resources like Khan Academy, or enrolling in a test prep course.

Register early for your SAT or ACT to secure your preferred test date and location. Be sure to make note of registration deadlines and avoid unnecessary late fees. It’s important for students to identify whether their prospective schools require the SAT or ACT, or if they are test-optional. Keep in mind that even if a school is test-optional for admission purposes, merit-based scholarships may still require a test score, so it’s a good idea to take the test regardless. Planning ahead will ensure you’re fully prepared for both admissions and scholarship opportunities.

Incorporate test prep into your weekly routine. Set aside time each week for practice tests, reviewing mistakes, and focusing on challenging areas. Aim to take the actual test at least once during your junior year, leaving time to retake it if necessary.

Engage in class discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and seek feedback on your work. This not only helps you learn but also allows teachers to get to know you better.

Start thinking about which teachers you might ask for letters of recommendation in your senior year. Building strong relationships now ensures they can write detailed and personalized letters.

Whether in clubs, sports teams, or student government, leadership roles demonstrate initiative and responsibility, traits that are valuable in college applications.

Review your list of colleges and ensure it includes a balanced mix of reach, match, and safety schools. For each school, double-check application requirements, such as essays, portfolios, and recommendation letters.

If you’re using the Common Application, start filling out your profile early. The Common App is a centralized online application platform that allows you to apply to multiple colleges and universities with just one application. You'll need to enter your personal information, academic history, and extracurricular activities. For schools that don’t use the Common App, be sure to familiarize yourself with their specific application process, as it may differ. Getting started early will give you plenty of time to gather all necessary materials and meet deadlines.

Your personal statement is a critical component of your application. Take time to craft a compelling narrative that highlights your unique experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Seek feedback from teachers, counselors, or mentors to polish your essays.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens on December 1st this year. Aim to complete it as soon as possible to maximize your chances of receiving financial aid. Some states and colleges have early deadlines, so don’t delay. Be sure to stay updated on any changes to ensure you submit your application as soon as it becomes available.

Use online tools like Fastweb, Cappex, and the College Board’s Scholarship Search to find scholarships that match your profile. While national scholarships found on these websites can be more competitive due to the larger applicant pool, they are still worth pursuing. Applying to as many as possible increases your chances of success, and even one award can make a big difference. 

However, don’t forget to explore local community scholarships, which are often offered by businesses, organizations, or foundations in your area. These can be less competitive and provide a better chance of winning. Additionally, many colleges offer merit-based scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, or special talents. For example, the University of Kentucky’s merit-based scholarship application is due on December 1st. Pay attention to all deadlines and apply to as many opportunities as possible to increase your chances of securing funding.

Even after submitting college applications, your academic performance still matters. Colleges will review your final grades, and a drop in performance could affect your admission status.

Balancing schoolwork, college applications, and extracurricular activities can be challenging. Use time management techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers, counselors, or family members for support. They can help you stay on track and manage your responsibilities effectively.