What Colleges Look For:
There are several things that college admissions officers look at when selecting students for admission. The following are some of the most important criteria:

• Academic Record
• Grade Point Average (GPA)
• Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT)
• Class Rank
• Extracurricular Activities
• Letters of Recommendation

Starting on the Right Foot:
Depending on your current class standing in high school, you have certain things that you'll need to be doing. The earlier start you have, the more time you have to make certain you're well prepared for the transition into college.

Here are some things to consider:

High School Freshmen:

• Start looking at what type of classes that you're taking and take classes that will challenge you and that you enjoy. Develop good study habits now to start building a strong GPA.
• Find out what high school classes will be required for college admission.
• Take part in extracurricular activities.
• Begin planning for your education expenses and paying for tuition. The cost of a college education will vary depending on the school and it's best to start planning now. Talk with you family about paying for college and think about ways to making money (summer jobs, baby sitting, etc).

High School Sophomores:

• Begin taking college prep classes. Plan on talking with your high school guidance counselor for advice on what classes to take.
• Practice taking standardized tests. Most likely, you'll have to take the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and/or the American College Testing (ACT) Assessment to apply for admission. Practice now to familiarize yourself with the test and become comfortable with the types of questions that are commonly asked.
• If you haven't participated in any extracurricular activities yet, get involved now!
• Sign up for the PSAT. The Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test is good practice for the SAT.

High School Juniors:

• Keep taking those college prep classes. It's important to remain focused on challenging yourself and taking classes that will prepare you for college. Look into take Advanced Placement (AP) classes that may also give you college credit.
• Take the standardized tests. In the fall, take the PSAT and this will help prepare you for the SAT. You should plan on taking the SAT and/or ACT in the spring of your junior year.
• Keep at those extracurricular activities!
• Start looking at college choices. Make a list of some of the schools that you're interested in and find out more information. Check out their websites and plan visits to their campus if possible.

High School Seniors:

• Avoid senioritis! Stay focused on your classes and maintain those good grades.
• Retake the SAT and/or ACT if you want to improve your scores.
• Start gathering admissions applications and narrow down your choices. Ask teachers and/or other sources for letters of recommendation.
• Apply for college admission and financial aid.
• Once you know where you've been accepted to, it's now time to make the big decision. Congratulations!

Printable Timeline