Nine Things 11th Graders Should do to Prepare for College

We’ve already shared eight things that 10th-graders need to be doing this year and now we’re giving you nine things that 11th-graders should be doing before their senior year.

1. Register for the SAT or ACT exams.

You can take one or both, but be sure to do it this spring. This will give you a chance to study and retake the test in the fall if you don’t make the score you need for the colleges you want to apply to.

2. Start exploring careers.

Some of your peers may know exactly what they want to do for a career, but rest assured, the majority don’t and even if they think they do, plans will likely change. However, if you are more like the majority, this is a great time to start checking out different careers you may find interesting. Don’t be afraid to talk to your parents, their friends, your counselors, or other adults who you think may be able to give you some insight.

3. Take AP exams.

Any 4s and 5s you score will look great on your college applications. These are the scores that show your future college that you are ready for college-level coursework.

4. Begin working on your college list.

You should be visiting college websites and campuses as often as you can and beginning to have an idea of what you are looking for in a school. Let your high school counselor and your parents help guide you with this list. Also, contact the schools you’re most interested in and schedule official visits for the summer.

5. Continue learning a foreign language.

A language can be difficult and tempting to quit when you’re struggling, but stick with it. Foreign language fluency is a huge plus on your college applications.

6. Read. Read. Read.

We can’t say it enough. Carve out at least 30 minutes each day for reading. It’s truly one of the most important things you can do to increase your language, writing, and critical thinking skills. Carve out at least 30 minutes each day for reading.

7. Begin searching for scholarships.

It may seem too soon for this, but it’s not. Searching and applying can be time-consuming, so the sooner you start the more chances you have of being awarded. Also, keep in mind that there are many scholarships that have deadlines before you start your senior year.

8. Make the grade!

This is the last full school year that will show up on your college applications since you’ll be applying in the fall. Make it count! If your freshman and sophomore grades weren’t as good as you’d like, this is your chance to show colleges that you’re ready.

9. Find a summer job or internship.

This is important for many reasons. You’ll have the opportunity to explore your interests, gain knowledge for your future career path, learn responsibility, earn money that you could put toward college, and the list could go on and on.

We want you to make the most of this time in high school and to be prepared when you head off to college. If you need help preparing for the SAT or ACT, we can help. Schedule a free consultation today.