As an 11th grader, you’re entering a pivotal year in your academic journey. The college application process is looming, and it’s essential to stay organized and proactive. Here’s a roadmap to help you navigate this exciting time:

Academic Focus

  • Maintain Consistency: If your values and priorities haven’t changed, stick to your extracurricular activities. However, if they have, don’t be afraid to try something new.
  • Deepen Interests: Explore and develop your passions within your chosen activities. Consider taking on a leadership role to enhance your skills.
  • Start Your College Search: Attend local college fairs and college admissions rep presentations at your high school.
  • Create a College List: Begin compiling a preliminary list of colleges based on your college match searches. Schedule family meetings to plan college visits throughout the year.
  • Prioritize Grades: Remember that junior year grades are crucial for college admissions.
  • Challenge Yourself: Continue to push yourself academically by taking AP or honors classes.
  • Self-Assessment: Take an aptitude or career assessment to gain insights into your interests and strengths.
  • Set Goals: Meet up with your counselor to discuss your college interests. Share your preferences and seek their recommendations.
  • Track Progress: Keep your activity log updated to showcase your involvement.

Athletics

  • NCAA/NAIA Registration: If you’re considering college sports, register for the NCAA Clearinghouse or NAIA Eligibility Center.
  • Understand NCAA Requirements: Familiarize yourself with NCAA eligibility requirements to ensure your courses align.
  • Inform Your Counselor: Let your counselor know about your athletic aspirations.

Testing

  • Consult with our Tutors: If you’re unsure about which tests to take or when, our tutors can help you or talk to your counselor.
  • Take a Practice Test: The best place to begin is with a practice test. Establish a baseline score with a practice ACT/SAT and create a testing timeline.
  • Test Only If: You’re currently enrolled in Algebra II. Even then, wait until December to take a practice test. The math section on the ACT is about 50% Algebra II content.

Stay on Track

  • Keep studying: Adhere to your ACT/SAT testing timeline and study schedule.
  • Register for Senior Year: Ensure a strong senior year course load, but keep in mind, just because you can take every advanced class available doesn’t mean you should. It’s important to find the right balance between what will challenge you and where you’ll be successful.
  • Visit Colleges: Sample different types of schools to find the best fit.
  • Build Your College List: Consider your values and research when creating your college list.
  • Research Scholarships: Explore scholarship opportunities.
  • Request Letters of Recommendation: Obtain letters of recommendation from one or two junior year teachers.
  • Research Applications: Understand the application requirements for each school.
  • Create a Common App Account: The summer before your senior year, you can create an account and explore the application to see what questions you’ll be asked. Complete general components before the application opens on August 1st.
  • Organize Information: Create a spreadsheet to track admission requirements, deadlines, and interview information.

      Remember to stay organized, proactive, and passionate throughout this process. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the college application journey successfully. If you need help with the process, please let us know. Our college counselors will help make the process more seamless.