06/18/2025
Here’s a comprehensive College Preparation Checklist for Parents: Junior to Senior Year—designed to guide families through each phase of the college admissions journey:
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✅ Junior Year (11th Grade)
Fall (Sept–Nov)
• Attend school’s college planning night
• Schedule meetings with school counselor
• Research potential colleges with your child (create a list)
• Encourage involvement in extracurriculars or leadership roles
• Register for PSAT (October) – qualifies for National Merit
Winter (Dec–Feb)
• Review PSAT results and discuss SAT/ACT strategy
• Create an SAT/ACT test prep schedule or consider a prep program
• Start building a college resume (activities, honors, jobs)
• Discuss career interests and potential majors
Spring (Mar–May)
• Register for spring SAT/ACT
• Visit local colleges during spring break
• Begin building college list (reach, match, safety)
• Encourage student to ask teachers for letters of recommendation early
• Research summer programs or internships
Summer (June–Aug)
• Tour colleges (schedule info sessions and tours)
• Continue SAT/ACT prep and take test if not done
• Begin brainstorming Common App/college essay topics
• Encourage reading and learning to build vocabulary and writing
⸻
✅ Senior Year (12th Grade)
Fall (Sept–Nov)
• Finalize college list and deadlines (Early Action/Decision vs. Regular)
• Register and take final SAT/ACT (if needed)
• Begin/complete Common App and supplemental essays
• Collect and submit letters of recommendation
• Submit FAFSA and CSS Profile (opens October 1)
• Request transcripts and track application submissions
• Attend college fairs and virtual events
Winter (Dec–Feb)
• Follow up on college applications and confirm submissions
• Watch for Early Decision/Action results
• Apply for scholarships (local, national, school-based)
• Review financial aid offers from colleges
• Schedule alumni or admissions interviews if required
Spring (Mar–May)
• Visit admitted colleges (admitted student days)
• Compare financial aid packages and calculate net cost
• Help your child decide and submit enrollment deposit by May 1
• Celebrate decision day and notify other colleges
• Send final transcript to selected college
Summer (June–Aug)
• Review housing, orientation, and health forms
• Plan dorm shopping and travel
• Prepare your child for independent college life (banking, laundry, etc.)
• Discuss budget and money management
https://www.y2academy.com/
(856) 888-2123