High school seniors and parents/guardians are either starting to relax a bit or beginning to panic as graduation is about 4 months away! As we navigate through another year of Covid-19 complexities, the timeline of college admissions: applying, acceptance, decision, enrollment – remains nearly the same as in previous years.
Students who applied using regular decisions will receive their admissions letters normally by March 1 or so. If you are still undecided or waiting to hear from admissions offices, don’t worry – it’s still ok to not know where you’ll attend.
In the meantime, here are some suggestions to keep in mind:
Seniors
- Keep up your grades. Many colleges require your school counselor to send mid-year reports (semester grades) and will want to see consistency in academics. Now, if you’re struggling to maintain a “B” in AP Statistics and end your year with a “C” that’s not a deal-breaker. In rare circumstances, admission offers can be revoked and scholarships rescinded if grades drop dramatically.
- Check your email daily for messages from potential colleges you’ve applied to and/or been accepted. Important information such as scholarship applications and DEADLINES are sent this way.
- Stay away from disciplinary actions – don’t get in trouble at school! Your administrators and teachers may be potential recommenders for scholarships and other opportunities you aren’t even aware of yet. Avoid getting on their “bad” side.
- Continue to find joy and fun this year. Life isn’t always about competition, planning, studying. Find time to relax, reach out to friends and family, and stay healthy.
Juniors
- Continue to work hard at your studies. Remember academics are still important.
- Register for either the SAT or ACT or both. Spring and early summer are the best times to sit for standardized tests. Yes, many colleges continue to keep test-optional policies for Fall 2023 admission, but why limit yourself? Unless you aren’t a good test-taker, prepare to do your best. Some majors at various schools still require scores such as engineering, nursing – especially if they are direct-admit programs.
- Look into any summer programs you may be interested in. Stop in or send an email to your college counselor or school counselor as a resource.
- Your counseling office at school is another place to look for internship opportunities. Getting real-world experience in the workplace looks great on your resume and college applications.
- If you need help to pay for college, try looking for a part-time job. As COVID restrictions are loosened with employers having safeguards in place, jobs are plentiful. In-person or virtual work is also a terrific addition to your applications. Are you good at math? Writing? Check online tutoring businesses for openings.
Sophomores
- Refer to the junior list above, except start preparing for the ACT & SAT exams to take next year. There are many free test-prep resources available:
- Maintain at least “B” averages in your courses.
- Pursue leadership positions in any clubs or organizations you belong to.
Freshman
- Ask for help from your teachers if you are struggling with any of your courses.
- Create a study schedule and stick to it.
- Join any clubs or community organizations to get involved outside of academics.
- When registering for next year’s courses, take the most challenging courses available while maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA. If you’re not strong in science, stay away from AP science courses. You’re better off earning a “B” in a college-preparatory course, than risking a “D” in an AP class.
- Inquire about Advanced Placement options, dual enrollment courses at a community college, Cambridge AICE and International Baccalaureate courses/diploma options.
Yes, that’s a lot of information! For college admissions assistance, refer back to this as needed and don’t try to do it all at once. If you need assistance with college planning, consider attending one of our college prep sessions or contact us for personalized guidance. It’s never too early to start. Good luck and stay healthy!
