Tip #3. Make a Plan!

Planning is crucial in making the college testing experience as comfortable as possible. Creating a clear schedule for when you are prepping, when you are testing, and when you are applying, will make you more effective and make every one's lives easier.

Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Freshman

1. Begin thinking about a college prep plan

Sophomore

1. PSAT


2. SAT Subject tests (if taking applicable honors/AP courses.)

Junior

1. PSAT in October (if it has not been taken.)


2. Speak with college counselor and attend College Nights


3. SAT/ACT should be taken in the fall, and again in the spring.


4. Begin exploring colleges that are of interest, and scheduling college visits in the spring.

Senior

1. Create a master calendar of all college application and financial aid deadlines and due dates.


2. Collect letters of recommendation and high school transcripts.


3. If necessary, take SAT/SAT/SAT Subject tests in the fall.


4. Determine whether you are applying for Early Admission, if not your college choice must be decided and financial aid package accepted by May 1.

Remember, things will come up along the way that may force you to alter your schedule slightly, but once you have a clear road map worked out a small detour won't break yours stride towards college admission.