What Should High School Juniors Do To Prepare for College Applications?

With the arrival of junior year, you’re officially an upperclassman! Now is the perfect time to start seriously thinking about college and devising a strategic plan for researching and applying to various institutions. Let’s explore the steps you should take to set yourself up for success as a high school junior.

Get Ready for Standardized Exams

Some colleges once again require SAT or ACT scores as part of their application process. Colleges accept either test without preference, so your first step should be determining which test suits you best. Consider taking a mock ACT and a mock SAT (or the PreACT and the PSAT) to compare your scores. Use an ACT to SAT concordance table to see if there is a significant difference. If one test stands out, focus on preparing for and taking that one.

If your scores are similar, think about which test format you prefer. Both tests have undergone some changes, so what an older family member or friend may have experienced has likely changed. For a description of the recent changes to the SAT this year, be sure to read The New Digital SAT: A Guide for Students and Parents. Also, the ACT has just announced some changes to the test beginning Spring 2025, so make sure you understand these changes when deciding which test you will take.

Once you’ve chosen your test, create a preparation plan. Will you take an ACT or SAT prep class? Hire a private tutor? There are also excellent free resources available online as well as prep books on Amazon or your local bookstore.

Next, decide when you’ll take the test. Consider your current math class and extracurricular schedule. Ideally, you should complete at least a semester of Algebra II and Trigonometry before testing. If you’re taking this class during junior year, it might be best to test in the second semester. If your schedule is packed, like participating in a sport with a busy fall season, consider testing later in the year. 

Choose Classes and Activities That Match Your Interests

Even though you’re still in high school, selecting courses that align with your potential major and career interests is crucial. However, you must first focus on core classes (english, math, science, social studies, world language) since colleges view those as the most important. When there is room in your schedule, fill it with electives that support your interests. Also, review your extracurricular activities and look for opportunities to advance in those areas. Seek leadership roles, work experiences, club memberships, sports, and anything else that would help an admissions counselor understand your interests and character inside and outside the classroom.

Explore Your Interests

If you are still determining your career interests, think about them or reach out to us for assistance! North Shore College Consulting can help with major and career exploration, using various self-assessment tools to identify options that fit your interests. In many cases, entering college undecided is also perfectly fine, and we can assist you in creating a path as an undecided major.

Start Compiling Your College List

Once you’ve identified potential majors or career paths, research schools that match your interests. Consider the location — do you want to stay close to home or explore a new state? Would you prefer a college in a bustling city or a quaint college town? Think about school size, ranging from a few hundred students to over 30,000. Determine where you’d fit best. If you’re interested in Greek life, research schools with active sorority and fraternity systems. These are just a few questions to help you pinpoint what you want in a college.

Start with a broad list of schools and narrow it down as you learn more about each one.

Arrange College Visits

With your list ready, it’s time to visit some schools! Check which schools offer in-person tours and which provide virtual options. If you plan on bringing a parent or guardian, ask for their help. For multiple school visits, develop a detailed plan. Also, check out our college visit guide for additional planning information.

Think About Recommendation Letters

Junior year is an excellent time to consider who to ask for recommendation letters. Most colleges require one to two letters from junior year teachers who teach core subjects (english, math, science, social studies, and world language). Start building relationships with these teachers early in the year. By the end of junior year, reflect on which classes you excelled in and with which teachers you had a good rapport. These are likely the teachers you’ll ask for recommendations. Some teachers prefer writing these letters over the summer, so ask before junior year ends! We typically recommend after spring break, but your school or teachers may have different rules, so make sure you know what is allowed at your school.

Research Scholarships

Numerous scholarships are available for students excelling in academics, sports, and more. Start your scholarship research now! Look for local scholarships in your area and national scholarships online. Begin early to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.

Plan for Next Summer

Although summer 2024 is winding down, it’s not too early to think about summer 2025! Look into activities or jobs for the next year that can enhance college applications and, more importantly, provide invaluable real-world experience.

Create a Common App Profile

Yes, you can start your Common App during your junior year! While you won’t officially apply to schools yet, you can create a profile, sign in, and familiarize yourself with the application process. On August 1st, 2025, your information will roll over to the 2025-2026 application year, allowing you to begin applying using the Common App.

Utilize a College Counselor

The college search and application process can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Rely on experts to guide you through the process. We assist students from start to finish, including preparing a solid application, finding colleges that are the right fit, and submitting the final application. And if you aren’t looking for comprehensive services, but you still need help, we also offer individual services to support you in any part of the college preparation or application process. For more information, contact us at info@nscollegeconsulting.net.

Preparing for college as a junior may seem daunting, but with careful planning and the right resources, you’ll be well on your way to success!