Chicago Academic would like you to have this brief timeline in mind when thinking about college admissions.
Yes, it does begin with Freshman year.
FRESHMEN:
-
Choose the most rigorous classes you are comfortable with. Colleges value students who challenge themselves.
-
Register for extracurricular activities that you enjoy. Join organizations, clubs and teams that you can help lead.
-
Consider after school volunteering and job opportunities that exhibit responsibility and contribution.
-
Get to know your favorite teachers. They may write you a letter of recommendation one day.
-
If in honors level biology, consider taking the SAT Subject test for that subject.
SOPHOMORES:
-
Take the PLAN Test to give you a good idea of how ready you are for the ACT exam.
-
Take the PSAT exam to measure your readiness for the SAT.
-
Try to take leadership roles in extracurricular activities. Colleges love leaders.
-
If in honors level chemistry or physics, consider taking the SAT Subject test for those subjects in the Spring.
-
Analyze results from PLAN and PSAT to determine areas of weakness for the ACT and SAT exams.
-
If National Merit Achievement is within grasp, begin preparing for the Junior year PSAT.
JUNIORS:
-
Register for any AP classes you can score a B or higher in.
-
Take PSAT exam to achieve National Merit Scholarship and determine readiness for ACT.
-
Begin test prep instruction for ACT (or SAT, if PSAT predicts success) in the fall.
-
Take February ACT exam in order to get a jump on the college application process.
-
Research and visit possible colleges. Get a sense for the best fit for you.
-
Take the April ACT and/or the Prairie State Exam, which includes an official ACT.
-
Take the appropriate AP at SAT Subject exams in May.
-
Possibly retake the ACT in June.
SENIORS:
-
In the summer, find a meaningful job, volunteer opportunity or internship to exemplify your maturity and seriousness.
-
Prepare your college applications and essays.
-
Register for any AP exams you can score a B or higher in. Colleges love hard working, serious seniors.
-
Retake ACT or SAT in the fall if needed.
-
Apply to universities for either early or regular admission.
-
Complete your FAFSA in order to apply for scholarships and financial aid.
-
Choose a school to attend based on what best suits your values and expectations.
-
Graduate!