High School Sophomore Timeline and Checklist
How to start preparing for college in your sophomore year of high school.
The countdown to college has begun. The primary focuses of your sophomore year should be: keeping your grade point average up (What is a GPA?), getting involved in extracurricular activities and preparing to take standardized tests like the SAT or the ACT.
___ Evaluate your course load and find out how much you know about college planning.
___ Register for and take the PSAT (pre-SAT) and/or PLAN (pre-ACT) tests.
___ Increase your commitment to extracurricular activities so you will stand out on your college applications.
___ Create a college calendar to keep track of important dates and deadlines.
___ Get familiar with college planning and the admissions process so you'll know what to expect before college.
___ Develop your standardized testing plan and take the tests you’re ready for.
___ Discover unique tips on how to organize your college prep activities.
___ Start your essay prep by writing often now, so you can reap the benefits later.
___ Capitalize on college planning resources and learn more about colleges and universities.
___ Consult your counselor to make sure you’re prepped for junior year classes.
___ Expand your knowledge about prospective schools by attending college fairs and information sessions.
___ Plan a solid summer filled with volunteering, internships and of course, fun.
___ Ask your counselor or teachers about AP testing to see if you're ready to take AP classes or sign up for the AP exam.
___ Talk with your family about creating a college budget.
___ Secure a summer job and build credentials while having fun!
___ Enroll in ACT or SAT prep over the summer while you still have free time.
___ Visit college campuses to see which types of schools appeal to you.
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