7th - 8th Grade
| Develop interests in the humanities, arts and sciences. |
| Cultivate a passion for a particular subject area, hobby, or activity. |
| Travel and explore different places. |
9th Grade
| Challenge yourself with honors courses in math and other subjects. |
| Volunteer outside of school. |
| Participate in student government, athletics, clubs or organizations. |
10th Grade
| Take the PSAT / NMSQT Test in October. |
| Maintain good grades. |
| Pursue your passion. |
| Take the A.P. Exams or SAT II, if appropriate in May / June. |
| Apply for a Social Security Number, if you do not have one. |
| Obtain Photo Identification. (Required for taking the SAT). |
| Explore summer opportunities (e.g. work, study, travel, test preparation). |
| Visit colleges and universities. |
11th Grade
| Attend college meetings with college and university representatives at school. |
| Develop a college file system. |
| Take the PSAT / NMSQT in October. |
| Schedule Individual College Meetings with college guidance counselors from January to May. |
| Attend Junior Parents College Night. |
| Register for Advanced Placement classes in April. |
| Attend local College Fair sponsored by the National Association for College Admission Counseling. |
| Consider taking the SAT I / II in May or June. |
| Research summer opportunities (e.g. work, study, travel, test preparation). |
| Visit colleges and universities. |
12th Grade
| Request college applications and catalogs during the summer. |
| Create a list of 10 to 15 schools to apply to. |
| Visit colleges and universities during the summer. |
| Register for SAT I / II and/or ACT tests in August. |
| Obtain UC and CSU applications as soon as available. |
| Write your college essay in September. |
| Attend Senior Parent College Evening in October. |
| Request Letters of Recommendation from faculty in November. |
| Return Secondary School Report Forms with stamped
addressed envelopes to college counselors by November 10th. |
| DEADLINE for University of California and California State University Applications: November 30th. |
| Complete transcript request forms if needed. |
| Photocopy and postmark all applications. |
| File Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. |
| Register for Advance Placement Exams. |
| Inform college counselors of all admission decisions by May 1st. |