Junior year can be stressful; it’s the year for competition between fellow students. Whether you’re a top 10 percenter or below the 50 percentile, there are a list of things that can help you make sure you are on the right track to college. Senior life can be just as hectic with college just around the corner. Take this checklist into consideration as you begin to prepare for the next chapter in your life.

Junior Year

1. Start your year off by talking to your counselor
2. Develop a resume of your accomplishments, achievements, etc.
3. Consider signing up for clubs and team sports
4. Register to take the PSAT/NMSQT Test
5. Set up a savings plan for summer earnings.
6. Start/continue your college search.
7. Make note of registration deadlines and prepare for the upcoming SAT I and SAT II tests and the ACT assessment.
8. Meet with your counselor to ensure you are on track for your college course selection
9. Discuss college finances with your parents
10. Ask your counselor about summer opportunities on college campuses
11. Start searching for college applications and start applying!

Senior Year

1. Consider the colleges and universities that interest you and investigate what they have to offer
2. Search for grants and scholarships
3. Consider applying for Federal Student Aid
4. Sign up for College visits
5. Update your resume of activities, awards and community involvement
6. Prepare college applications, and write your essays
7. Get your letters of recommendation
8. Review your test scores closely before you send them out to colleges
9. Submit applications by November (Make a copy of all papers)