050 - College Prep by Year

Confession: I am so completely overwhelmed and stressed out about the college prep process for my Junior. I've already missed a few deadlines. I had SO much anxiety when I applied for my own college as a teen that I shut down, and did not even apply for a single scholarship. Even though I had great grades! Arrrrggghhh! I want to go back in time and give teen Penny a stern talking to. And a hug.⁠ Listen in to get a rundown of what tasks need to be done in which year, starting in 9th grade. If your teen is older than that and you haven't done anything--don't panic. It's okay. We've got you covered. Take a deep breath. Eat some chocolate. And tune in to hear what we've learned.⁠ Middle school - Grade 10 Get to know yourself - explore your options Start saving! Develop strong study and time management habits Become involved Junior Year Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their requirements Create a master list or calendar with your checklist and the deadlines Go to college fairs Make an account with Common App Register for the ACT/SAT Start looking for scholarships Senior Year Update your master list or calendar Complete scholarship applications Stay involved, seek leadership roles if possible Re-take ACT/SAT if needed Apply to your chosen colleges Ask counselors and teachers to submit the required documents (transcripts, letters of requirement) Visit college campuses Notify the school of your commitment and submit any  required financial deposit Resources: www.my529.org www.studentaid.gov Dawn Rosenberg McKay, Should I Go to College, www.thebalancecareers.com/should-you-go-to-college-525564 My Future, https://myfuture.com/ College Application Timeline: 12th Grade, https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/get-in/applying-101/timeline-12-grade