Junior Year

September – November

_____I have prepared an area in my home to keep only college materials. (I have organized these materials into separate files: financial aid information, SAT materials, college applications, college information.)

_____I have researched opportunities in my community to learn more about post-secondary education (college fairs, career counseling, etc.).

_____I have compiled a list of high school courses and activities I have completed so far. I have also included a list of my achievements, abilities and interests.

_____I have completed a list of areas where I need improvement and courses/activities I have left to take.

_____I have registered for and completed the PSAT/NMSQT. (This test is taken to prepare for the SAT and to increase eligibility for special honors and National Merit Scholarships.)

December – February

_____I received my PSAT/NMSQT scores in December. I interpreted the score report and identified areas needing improvement.

_____I reviewed my lists of interests and goals. I will use my lists to identify important college traits to be used in my college search.

_____I have begun to research specific scholarship opportunities through my high school guidance counselor, public libraries, local civic organizations and the Internet scholarship search services.

_____I have asked my guidance counselor for information about Advanced Placement (AP) and College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests.

_____I have started my college search by identifying colleges which match the traits I have listed most important. I have called or written to these schools to arrange visits and to receive college information and applications.

April – June

_____I have taken Advanced Placement Exams (given in May).

_____I have taken the SAT Exam (given in June).

_____I have identified and spoken to teachers, employers, and activity leaders who will write letters of recommendation to colleges for me.

Summer

_____I have found a summer job to earn savings for my college expenses.

_____My family and I have planned visits to colleges I am interested in.