What High School Juniors Should Be Doing to Prepare for College

27 July 2025

Junior year of high school can feel like a whirlwind—standardized tests, tough classes, extracurriculars, and the looming thought of college applications. If you're in your junior year, this is the perfect time to take charge of your future. The steps you take now will make your senior year (and your college journey) much smoother.

So, what should you be doing right now to ensure you're on track for college? Let’s break it down into actionable steps that will put you ahead of the game!

1. Start Researching Colleges

Choosing the right college is like picking your next home for the next four years—exciting, right? But where do you even begin?

- Create a list of potential colleges based on your interests, majors, and career goals.
- Look into the size, location, campus culture, and financial aid options of each school.
- Visit campuses if possible—nothing beats experiencing a college atmosphere in person!
- Attend virtual tours and college fairs to get a feel for different schools.

This is your chance to dream big and explore all possibilities. Think about what kind of environment makes you feel the most motivated and happy!

2. Keep Your Grades Up (They Still Matter!)

Your junior year grades are the most important for college applications. Colleges look at your transcript to see if you're maintaining steady progress.

- Stay on top of assignments and aim for the best GPA possible.
- If you're struggling in a subject, ask for help—tutors, teachers, and study groups can be lifesavers!
- Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or dual enrollment courses to show colleges that you're up for a challenge.

You don’t have to be a straight-A student, but showing effort and improvement can make a big difference!

3. Prepare for Standardized Tests

If you're planning to take the SAT or ACT, now is the time to prep. These tests can impact college admissions, scholarships, and more!

- Take a diagnostic test to see where you stand.
- Sign up for prep courses, online resources, or study groups to improve your score.
- Register early for test dates to avoid last-minute stress.

Not sure which test to take? Some students do better on the SAT, while others excel at the ACT—take a practice test for both to find your best fit!

4. Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities

Colleges don’t just look at grades—they want to see what makes you unique! Your activities outside the classroom help tell your story.

- Join or take leadership roles in clubs, sports teams, or volunteer organizations.
- Focus on quality over quantity—stick with activities you’re passionate about.
- Consider internships or summer programs related to your field of interest.

Passionate about art? Start a portfolio. Love science? Join a research project. Your interests make you stand out!

5. Build Strong Relationships with Teachers

Your teachers will be writing your recommendation letters, so it’s important to build genuine connections with them.

- Participate in class discussions and seek help when needed.
- Show initiative and dedication in your coursework.
- Ask teachers (especially those in subjects you enjoy) for guidance on college and careers.

Remember, teachers love to support students who show effort and enthusiasm—so don’t be afraid to engage with them!

6. Start Thinking About Your College Essay

While you won’t be submitting college applications just yet, it’s smart to start brainstorming your college essay topics.

- Reflect on stories or experiences that define who you are.
- Keep a journal of ideas or write rough drafts to see what sticks.
- Read example essays for inspiration, but make sure your story is authentic and personal.

Your essay is your chance to let colleges hear your voice—make it count!

7. Research Financial Aid & Scholarships

College can be expensive, but don’t let that scare you! There are tons of scholarships and grants available to help.

- Research merit-based and need-based scholarships from colleges, organizations, and local businesses.
- Keep an eye out for scholarship deadlines (some open as early as junior year!).
- Talk to your school’s guidance counselor about financial aid options.

The sooner you start searching for scholarships, the better your chances of securing free money for college!

8. Create a College Timeline

Junior year flies by, so staying organized is key. Make a timeline to keep everything on track:

- Fall: Research colleges, build your resume, and start test prep.
- Winter: Take standardized tests, look into scholarships, and start essay brainstorming.
- Spring: Visit colleges, meet with counselors, and ask teachers for recommendation letters.
- Summer: Finalize your college list, work on applications, and continue scholarship hunting.

This will help you avoid last-minute stress and stay ahead of deadlines.

9. Explore Potential Majors and Careers

While you don’t need your life figured out yet, it helps to start exploring your interests.

- Take career quizzes to see what matches your skills and passions.
- Shadow professionals or do internships in fields that interest you.
- Research what degrees align with careers you’re curious about.

Your interests might change, and that’s okay! Just start discovering what excites you.

10. Take Care of Your Mental Health

With all the stress of junior year, don’t forget to take care of yourself.

- Get enough sleep, exercise, and downtime to avoid burnout.
- Talk to a friend, teacher, or counselor if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
- Practice time management so you don’t feel buried in deadlines.

College prep is important, but so is your well-being. A strong mindset will help you tackle any challenge that comes your way!

Final Thoughts

Junior year is a pivotal moment in your high school journey, and while it can be overwhelming, remember that you’re not alone. Take it step by step—research colleges, keep up with academics, engage in activities you love, and take care of yourself.

Your hard work now will pay off in the future, and before you know it, you’ll be sending out college applications with confidence!

Stay motivated, stay curious, and believe in yourself—you’ve got this!