College Readiness by Grade Level
From the College Essay Guy
This college admissions timeline tells you what tasks to prioritize each year of high school in order to prepare for college.
Inside, you’ll find tons of resources for finding out how long the admissions process takes, when you should begin preparing (hint hint, now), and even when to take those pesky standardized tests.
9TH GRADE TIMELINE
Do the Values Exercise to determine what’s important to you.
Take a personality assessment to learn more about your strengths, challenges, and communication and learning style.
Explore and engage with extracurricular activities (e.g., clubs, sports, community service, fine and performing arts, work, and other in-or out-of-school activities) that align with your values and strengths
Create an activity log to track all your extracurricular activities, summer experiences, academic honors, and other achievements.
Develop your time management and study skills.
PSAT: Some high schools allow you to take the October PSAT as a freshman.
Take an interest assessment to explore possible college majors and careers.
Plan your high school classes using insight from the bullet above.
Meet with your school counselor to explore clubs, classes, and discuss course selection. Start building a relationship with them by doing this regularly.
Parents: Start exploring how to pay for college.
Athletes: Familiarize yourself with the NCAA and NAIA athletic recruiting requirements.
Plan a summer experience that helps you explore a passion or interest.
Summer reading: Expand your vocabulary and your world.