high school - Great College Advice https://greatcollegeadvice.com College Admission Counseling Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:04:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/758df36141c47d1f8f375b9cc39a9095.png high school - Great College Advice https://greatcollegeadvice.com 32 32 What Senior Year Courses Should You Take? https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/what-courses-should-a-high-school-senior-take/ Thu, 04 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10561 Use this guide to design your ideal senior-year course schedule and make informed decisions.

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Senior year is the final chapter of a high school transcript — and admissions officers read it closely. The courses chosen for 12th grade demonstrate ambition, consistency, and college-readiness. A well-constructed senior schedule does more than meet graduation requirements; it reinforces the student’s narrative since freshman year and can tip the balance in competitive admissions.

A common mistake is treating 12th grade as a reward for surviving junior year. After intense 11th-grade testing, college visits, AP exams, and application research, coasting is tempting. But colleges that see fall semester grades before deciding want to know if students maintained standards under pressure. A sudden drop in rigor or performance sends the wrong signal at the worst moment.

Use this guide to design your ideal senior-year course schedule and make informed decisions, so you can achieve both graduation and college admissions goals.

Why Senior Year Course Selection Is a Primary Admissions Lever

Course selection is not a background detail in the admissions process — it is one of the most direct signals a student sends to an admissions committee. Colleges are looking for evidence that students have challenged themselves appropriately and made thoughtful choices that are well-suited to their abilities. Takeaway: Smart, well-matched course selection matters more than just taking the hardest courses.

This matters. A student with six APs and three Bs and two Cs hasn’t shown readiness but poor self-assessment. A student with four challenging, interest-aligned courses and four As has shown what selective colleges want: challenge, competence, and judgment.

Senior year course selection also impacts the weighted GPA, which gives context for the unweighted GPA. Some schools weigh harder courses more, including honors, AP, or IB. Understanding weighted vs. unweighted GPA helps admissions officers compare rigor across schools.

The Rigorous Balance Framework: AP, IB, and GPA Protection

The central tension in senior-year course planning is between taking the hardest available courses and maintaining the grades that make them worth taking. The answer is not to choose one over the other — it is to calibrate.

The Core Principle: Hard Courses, Good Grades

The best path is to take the hard course and get a good grade. The higher the challenge and the higher the grade, the more seriously the most selective colleges will consider the applicant. That said, each student is different, and sometimes it makes perfect sense for even a highly capable student to calibrate their course load based on a whole host of considerations.

For students applying to the most selective universities, the standard is clear: if you have progressed through a subject at the honors or AP level, the expectation is that you continue at that level. Completing AP Calculus AB in the junior year, then switching to a standard elective in the senior year, raises questions. Conversely, choosing a rigorous, appropriately leveled course after struggling in a subject shows valued self-awareness.

How Many AP or IB Courses Is the Right Number?

There is no universal answer, but the framework is consistent: the number of rigorous courses should match the student’s demonstrated capacity to perform well in them. Key takeaway: The quality and fit of the course selection outweigh sheer course quantity when it comes to senior-year rigor and admissions impact.

For highly selective schools, students are expected to challenge themselves at the highest levels offered. For those applying more broadly, some institutions focus less on maximum rigor and weigh other factors.

IB vs. AP: A Structural Comparison

IB Diploma students work within a set rigorous framework. For students at schools offering both AP and standard courses, AP selection requires more planning.

AP is a specific, higher-level curriculum developed by the College Board and taught at some high schools. IB is an advanced curriculum offered by some high schools under the global auspices of the International Baccalaureate organization. The table below compares the two frameworks across the dimensions most relevant to senior year planning.

AP Program IB Curriculum
Curriculum structure Individual courses selected by student Integrated diploma program with required components
College credit potential Varies by school and score Varies; Higher Level courses most commonly accepted
Flexibility High — student selects which AP courses to take Lower — diploma candidates follow a defined subject group structure
Transcript signal Demonstrates subject-level rigor Demonstrates broad academic rigor and international curriculum
Best fit Students with clear subject strengths to showcase Students seeking a cohesive, globally recognized academic framework

The Major-Alignment Strategy: Electives as Admissions Signals

Senior year electives are not filler; they reinforce academic identity and show a genuine interest in a field. Admissions officers view course selections in light of a student’s stated interests and intended major. Electives that align with the intended major strengthen the application narrative.

STEM-Bound Students

A student applying to engineering or computer science who takes AP Calculus BC, AP Physics C, and a statistics or data science elective shows subject depth and preparation. Choosing an unrelated elective instead of math or science creates a gap in the narrative.

The fourth year of math is key for STEM applicants. Taking calculus shows preparation and avoids leaving a visible transcript gap. For elite programs, calculus is a key academic signal.

Humanities and Social Science Applicants

A student interested in political science, law, or public policy benefits from AP Government, AP Economics, AP History. These courses demonstrate both engagement and analytical writing skills needed for college-level humanities coursework.

For pre-law or social science, a fourth year of English is essential, and the level matters. AP English Literature or Language shows readiness for college-level reading and writing.

Arts and Interdisciplinary Applicants

Arts, design, or interdisciplinary students should use their senior year to deepen relevant coursework while maintaining academic breadth. Some may pursue a capstone project to show skill in independent research or creative work. Aim for passion, depth, and competence in core subjects.

The Fourth Year of Core Subjects: Why It Matters

One of the most consequential decisions in senior-year planning is whether to continue core academic subjects — math, science, a foreign language, and English — into the fourth year. The key takeaway: For most college-bound students, pursuing a fourth year in each core subject is critical to maximizing admissions opportunities. Make an intentional plan to enroll in these courses and discuss your options with your counselor to ensure you stay on track for your college goals.

Mathematics

Four years of increasingly rigorous math is the norm at selective colleges. Stopping at Algebra II or Pre-Calculus and skipping senior-year math signals a ceiling, hurting STEM applicants and missing an opportunity for humanities students to demonstrate quantitative skills.

Foreign Language

Selective colleges usually require four years of a single foreign language. Stopping after three years falls short. Continuing to year four—even if not the hardest level—shows commitment and skill.

Science

Students not on a STEM track often need three years of science. STEM applicants should complete four years, including an AP or honors lab science course in the senior year. The standard sequence is Biology, Chemistry, and Physics; AP science in senior year adds value.

English

Four years of English is standard and expected. The key senior year choice is level: AP English Literature or AP English Language is the stronger option if the student can excel.

Dual Enrollment vs. AP: Which Is Better?

For students seeking college credit or advanced coursework beyond what their high school offers, dual enrollment and AP courses are the two primary options. Carefully research each option in relation to your goals and target colleges before making your choice.

Dual Enrollment (also called Dual Credit) is a college course offered to high school students in alignment with their high school. Students are awarded credit by both the high school and the college.

Concurrent Enrollment is similar but may not count for high school credit or graduation requirements in some districts.

AP courses are a specific, higher-level curriculum developed by the College Board and taught at some high schools. College credit is awarded based on the AP Exam score, and the threshold varies by institution.

The table below compares the two options across the dimensions most relevant to senior year decision-making.

AP Courses Dual Enrollment
Credit awarded by College Board exam score (varies by school) Partner college directly
Credit transferability Varies widely; selective schools often require higher scores Varies; community college credits less accepted at selective schools
Admissions signal Strong — recognized rigor signal at all college types Moderate — signals initiative; less standardized across schools
GPA impact Weighted at most high schools Depends on district policy
Best fit Students targeting selective admissions who want a recognized rigor signal Students seeking guaranteed college credit or whose high school lacks AP offerings

The key distinction for admissions purposes: AP courses are a universally recognized signal of rigor. Dual enrollment demonstrates initiative and college-readiness, but the credit itself is less reliably accepted at selective four-year institutions. Students applying to highly selective schools should prioritize AP or IB coursework where available; dual enrollment is most valuable when AP options are limited or when the student has a specific college credit goal.

The Senioritis Safeguard: Why Second Semester Still Counts

Course selection matters through the entire senior year, not just the fall semester. The second semester of senior year is where many students disengage, and it is also where admissions decisions can unravel.

Colleges that admit students in the early rounds — Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision — send acceptance letters with an implicit condition: maintain your academic performance. A significant drop in grades or a sudden reduction in course rigor in the second semester can trigger a rescinded offer. This is not a theoretical risk. Admissions offices do review final transcripts, and a student who earned a first C after years of strong performance, or who dropped two rigorous courses after receiving an acceptance, will draw scrutiny.

Semester grades printed on the transcript are the ones that matter. The strategic implication is straightforward: the course schedule a student builds for senior year should be one they can sustain through June, not one designed to impress in September and abandoned by February.

For students who receive a deferral from an Early Action or Early Decision school, the second-semester transcript becomes an active admissions document. A strong set of senior year grades in rigorous courses is one of the most effective ways to strengthen a deferred application. Students in this position should treat the second semester as an opportunity to make the case that the deferral was a mistake.

Senior Year Supplemental Checklist: Testing and Applications

While course selection is the primary lever for admissions competitiveness, the fall semester of senior year also involves standardized testing decisions and application deadlines. These are secondary to academic performance but require coordination.

Some colleges may consider fall senior-year grades (or mid-term grades) as part of Early Action or Early Decision consideration. Students who are retaking the SAT or learning how to ace the ACT in September or October should do so without allowing test preparation to compromise their academic performance or extracurricular commitments. For students who could benefit from an extra 20 or 30 points, retaking the test can be worthwhile — the key is doing a little more prep without letting it consume time needed for schoolwork, extracurriculars, and other commitments. A small grade fluctuation in that context is not necessarily a disqualifying concern.

The principle is balance: senior year is not the time to become obsessive about test scores at the expense of the academic record that colleges will also evaluate.

Building a Senior Year Schedule That Works

The most effective senior year schedules share four characteristics: they continue core academic subjects at an appropriate level of rigor, they include at least one or two courses that reinforce the student’s intended major or academic identity, they are calibrated to the student’s demonstrated capacity to perform well, and they are sustainable through the end of the year.

Students should be engaged in mapping their own curriculum at every step. The ability to assess one’s own strengths, make strategic course choices, and follow through on those choices is exactly the kind of executive functioning that college will demand — and senior year is the last opportunity to demonstrate it on the high school transcript.

If you are navigating senior year course selection and want a counselor who can evaluate your specific transcript, target schools, and academic profile to build the right schedule, the team at Great College Advice works with students at exactly this stage. Book a consultation with us.

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]]> How Should 11th Graders Prepare for College https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/college-timeline-for-juniors/ Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:25:20 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=21711 Junior year is widely considered the most important year for college admissions. This comprehensive guide covers every critical decision.

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Table of Contents

Junior year is widely considered the most important year for college admissions. This comprehensive guide covers every critical decision—from academics and testing to college list building and application strategy—organized by season so nothing falls through the cracks.

 

Why Junior Year Matters Most

Junior year is the fulcrum of the entire college admissions process. It is the last full year of grades that colleges will see on your application. It is typically your most rigorous academic year. And it is when the abstract idea of “preparing for college” becomes a concrete set of deadlines, decisions, and deliverables.

“During 11th grade, college prep becomes a part of the student’s life alongside their academics. I often tell students that academics need to come first, because that is the most important piece that colleges look at. That said, we need to start making choices and doing research so that we are prepared for college visits, applications, and the decisions ahead.”

— Pam Gentry, senior admissions consultant

One important misconception to let go of: the college planning process does not follow a rigid, pre-ordained timeline. While there are specific dates tied to testing, deadlines, and visits, no two students navigate the process in exactly the same way. The timeline below is organized by season to help you stay on track, but it should be adapted to suit the individual you are.

For the full timeline prep starting from 9th grade, check our guide: College Advice for High School Students.

Academics: Your Last Full Year on the Transcript

Make Your Course Load Count

Eleventh grade is your last real chance to impress admissions officers with the courses you are taking. Your junior year GPA and course rigor will be scrutinized more than any other year on your transcript. Plan to take as many rigorous courses as you can manage—AP, Honors, IB, or dual enrollment—while maintaining strong grades.

Work with your counselor to find the right balance. A student who earns strong grades in four or five well-chosen AP courses is more competitive than one who struggles across seven. If you are uncertain about adding a difficult course, err on the side of challenge—colleges want to see you stretch—but not at the cost of your mental health or GPA.

Maintain the Upward Trend

Admissions officers track your GPA trend from 9th through 11th grade. A student whose grades improve each year signals increasing maturity, work ethic, and readiness for college-level academics. If your sophomore year was not your strongest, junior year is the opportunity to demonstrate that upward trajectory. Semester grades on the transcript are what colleges see, so stay focused throughout the full year—both semesters matter equally.

“The best path is to take the hard course and get a good grade. The higher the challenge and the higher the grade, the more seriously the most selective colleges will consider the applicant. That said, each student is different, and sometimes it makes perfect sense to calibrate the course load based on a whole host of considerations.”

— Great College Advice Family Handbook

Standardized Testing: Execute Your Plan

The PSAT in October: This One Counts

Even if you took the PSAT in 10th grade, the junior year PSAT is the one that qualifies you for the National Merit Scholarship Competition. While most students will not score high enough to qualify, the PSAT provides excellent diagnostic data and additional practice with the standardized testing format.

Determine SAT vs. ACT

If you have not already, take a full-length diagnostic of both the SAT and ACT early in junior year to determine which format suits you better. Some students perform significantly better on one test than the other. Many test prep companies offer free diagnostics. Once you have the data, commit to a preparation plan.

Schedule Your Official Tests

We strongly recommend scheduling at least one official test in the fall or winter of junior year, with a spring date as a backup. This timeline leaves room for a retake while avoiding the chaos of senior year. Although many colleges remain test-optional, some selective schools have reinstated score requirements, and your admission odds may increase with a strong score even at test-optional institutions.

“At many colleges and universities, merit-based financial awards are closely keyed to ACT and SAT scores. For families that seek merit scholarships, it is worth trying to raise scores. Investments in test preparation can really pay off, as a few more points can mean thousands more dollars in scholarships.”

— Great College Advice Family Handbook

For test preparation, one-on-one tutoring tends to produce the strongest score improvements. If private tutoring is not feasible, test prep courses, school-based workshops, and self-study with official College Board or ACT practice materials are all effective alternatives. At a minimum, the Family Handbook recommends completing as many full-length practice exams as possible leading up to the exam.

Extracurriculars: Lead, Achieve, and Let Go

By junior year, your extracurricular profile should be focused. The exploration phase of 9th and 10th grade is over. Now is the time to demonstrate leadership, deepen your commitments, and let go of anything that no longer serves you authentically.

“By the time students are in their junior year, their studies are becoming much harder and it is time to let go of the things they are not authentically interested in. Really focus on opportunities to show motivation, to show leadership, and to give them time to focus on their studies.”

— Pam Gentry, Senior Admissions Consultant, Great College Advice

Step Into Leadership Roles

If you connected with current leaders of your organizations during sophomore year, junior year is when you step into those roles. But leadership is not just about holding a title. The Great College Advice Family Handbook reminds families that students can demonstrate leadership by managing projects, organizing events, mentoring younger members, or finding ways to enhance their organizations. What matters is impact and initiative.

Quality Over Quantity—Always

The Common App provides space for only ten activities. You do not need to fill every slot. Colleges look for students who are “well-lopsided”—those with deep, sustained commitments in one or two areas—rather than a long list of surface-level participation. As Jamie Berger emphasizes, colleges want to see activities you have pursued for multiple years with increasing involvement and responsibility.

“Deep dives for four years into activities is what is most valuable. The great well-rounded kid is not the ideal anymore.”

— Jamie Berger, veteran college admissions counselor

Building Your College List

Junior year is when the informal college exploration of 9th and 10th grade becomes a structured, strategic process. By the end of the year, you should have a working list of at least 12 schools across reach, target, and likely categories.

“In 11th grade, I start talking to students about what makes colleges the same and different from each other. What kinds of experiences can be had at a small school versus a medium school? What is it like to be on a rural campus versus a large urban campus? Through our discussions and the student’s own research, we develop together a balanced college list for families to research, visit, and narrow down.”

— Pam Gentry, senior admissions consultant

Start With What Matters to You

Before researching specific schools, identify your criteria. Size, location, academic programs, campus culture, Greek life, research opportunities, and financial considerations all play a role. Sarah Myers, Senior Admissions Consultant at Great College Advice, describes college list building as an iterative process: early in the journey, students tend to be drawn to name recognition, but as they learn more about themselves and their options, the list evolves to reflect genuine fit rather than prestige.

Build a Balanced List

Your list should include a mix of reach schools (where admission is uncertain but possible), target schools (where your profile is competitive), and likely schools (where you are confident of admission and would be happy to attend). Jamie Berger is emphatic that finding “happy likelies and targets is super important”—the bottom and middle of the list matter as much as the top.

Use Resources Strategically

The Fiske Guide to Colleges provides a fantastic overview of hundreds of schools and is a great starting point. College websites, virtual tours, and conversations with admissions representatives add depth to your research. Attending college fairs—organized nationally by NACAC and regionally by local admissions counseling associations—allows you to gather information on many schools efficiently. Introduce yourself at booths, ask questions, and sign up for email lists.

Campus Visits and Demonstrated Interest

Visit While Classes Are in Session

Try to schedule campus visits while the school year is active. Spring break of junior year is ideal for this. Take a campus tour, attend an information session, and if possible, meet with an admissions officer or a faculty member in your intended major. Go prepared with specific questions that demonstrate you have already done research on the school.

Campus visits remain one of the strongest ways to demonstrate interest to colleges. Some schools even offer application fee waivers to students who visit, so it is always worth asking. If you want to maximize your time on campus, download the Great College Advice campus visit e-book for a comprehensive planning guide.

When In-Person Visits Are Not Possible

If distance or finances prevent in-person visits, you can still demonstrate interest effectively. Fill out inquiry forms on admissions websites, attend virtual information sessions, correspond with your regional admissions representative, and follow the school’s social media accounts. Each point of contact is documented by admissions offices and contributes to your demonstrated interest profile.

Bonnie Hale, a member of the Great College Advice community, recommends that families use any family travel as an opportunity to visit nearby campuses—even if the school is not on the student’s list. Comparing different campus environments in person builds a vocabulary for preferences that helps with the formal list-building process.

— Bonnie Hale, Great College Advice Community

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are a critical but often underestimated element of the application. Strong letters can provide admissions officers with evidence of qualities—intellectual curiosity, resilience, kindness, leadership—that do not show up in grades or test scores.

“Your letters of recommendation are generally expected to be from junior year teachers. Be an engaged, active, committed student in your classes. Come early or stay late. Chat with your teacher—not superficially, not because you think you have to. Find out what really intrigues you and engage them. Figure out who your favorite two teachers are and dig in deep.”

— Jamie Berger, veteran college admissions counselor

Ask Early, Ask In Person

Ideally, students should request letters of recommendation before the end of junior year. Asking in person shows respect and gives the teacher time to prepare a thoughtful, detailed letter over the summer. Jamie Berger emphasizes that asking early and in person is one of the most important steps: “You do not want to be hitting the teachers in the fall when they are already overwhelmed with requests.”

Prepare Your Recommenders

Create a “brag sheet”—a one-page summary of your activities, achievements, and goals—to give each recommender. This helps teachers write specific, detailed letters rather than generic ones. The Family Handbook also notes that parents should make sure to complete any school counselor questionnaires thoroughly, especially if the counselor does not know your student well.

Jamie Berger adds that at smaller schools, letters of recommendation carry even more weight because admissions staff have time to read them carefully. At larger universities, the letters may carry less weight on average, but a negative or lukewarm letter will always be noticed.

Summer Before Senior Year: Application Launch

The summer between junior and senior year is when the application process shifts from research and planning into execution. This is the single most productive window for application work.

“I have a goal for my families and my students to complete the majority of the work before they enter school in the fall of their senior year. If we can get that work done in the summer, then when they start school in the fall, they can focus on their academics and finish the smaller pieces—supplemental essays, activity updates. They feel ready to hit that submit button in October, November, and December.”

— Pam Gentry, Senior Admissions Consultant, Great College Advice

Finalize Your College List

Exit the summer with a clear, balanced list of schools where you plan to apply. Research each school’s application requirements, deadlines, and financial aid policies. Use the Net Price Calculator on each school’s website to understand your likely costs. If you are still considering visits, summer is a fine time—campuses are quieter, but you can explore at a relaxed pace. For more details, see the Summer College Application Checklist for Rising Seniors.

Develop Your Application Strategy

Determine which schools you will apply to under Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision. Early Decision offers a meaningful admissions advantage at many schools, but it is a binding commitment. Sarah Farbman, Senior Admissions Consultant and COO at Great College Advice, advises that Early Decision can help you get into a school at the top of your admissibility range—but it will not help you get into a school you are not qualified for. She also notes that applying Early Decision means forgoing the ability to compare financial aid packages, which is an important consideration for families where cost is a factor.

Start Your Personal Essay

The Common App typically releases essay prompts well before the application opens in August. Starting early gives you time for thoughtful brainstorming, multiple drafts, and revision. Pam Gentry describes a backwards approach to essay writing: start by identifying three to five words you want colleges to know about you, then find the story that demonstrates those qualities, and finally match it to the prompt that best fits.

Begin gathering supplemental essay prompts as well. Many colleges require additional essays, and the sooner you have a full inventory of what you need to write, the better you can plan your summer writing schedule.

Summer Bootcamp Approach

Pam Gentry offers her students a “bootcamp week” option: dedicate one focused week where you work from nine in the morning to one in the afternoon, then meet with your counselor for feedback each day. By the end of the week, the bulk of the work is done. Whether you use this intensive format or a steady weekly schedule, the key is having a plan and sticking to it.

 

What Parents Should Know About Junior Year

Have the Financial Conversation—Seriously

If you have not already had a detailed family conversation about college costs, junior year is when it becomes urgent. Understanding whether you are a full-pay family, a family expecting need-based aid, or a family seeking merit scholarships shapes nearly every subsequent decision—from which schools go on the list to whether Early Decision is appropriate to how much energy goes into test preparation.

Use the Net Price Calculator on each college’s website for an estimate of what you would actually pay. Note the October 1 opening of the FAFSA portal and whether any schools on your list require the CSS Profile, which is a more detailed financial aid application.

Support the Process Without Owning It

Junior year is when the balance between parental involvement and student ownership becomes critical. You can help by arranging campus visits, researching scholarship opportunities, attending college fairs together, and keeping track of deadlines. But the work itself—the research, the writing, the relationship-building with teachers and counselors—should be your student’s.

Jamie Berger notes a warning sign: “It is always concerning when a family arrives and says ‘we plan’—I want it to be the student’s process more than the parents’.” The strongest applications come from students who have taken genuine ownership of their college journey.

Manage Family Communication

If your student feels hounded by college conversations, suggest setting a regular weekly time to discuss the process. This creates boundaries while keeping the conversation productive. As the legacy Great College Advice timeline put it: “Hey, Mom, thanks for reminding me about this college stuff; let’s talk on Wednesday after dinner.” Sometimes creating boundaries is as important as creating a timeline.

Tip for parents

Junior year is intense, but it is manageable with structure. Help your student build a realistic timeline, keep the financial conversation open and honest, and resist the urge to take over. The goal is a student who enters senior year feeling prepared, organized, and genuinely excited about the schools on their list.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many AP classes should a junior take?

There is no universal number. The right answer depends on your academic strengths, your school’s offerings, and the selectivity of the colleges you are targeting. Most competitive applicants take three to five AP or equivalent courses in junior year. The key is to challenge yourself meaningfully without overloading to the point of burnout. A counselor can help you calibrate the right balance for your specific situation.

Should I take both the SAT and ACT?

Take diagnostic practice tests of both, then commit to the one where you perform better. Taking both officially is an option but is usually unnecessary unless your scores on the diagnostics are very close. Your preparation time is better spent improving one score than splitting effort between two tests.

How many colleges should be on my list?

Around 12 schools is a good target, distributed across reach, target, and likely categories. Jamie Berger recommends approximately this number and cautions against applying to too many reach schools (such as all eight Ivies) at the expense of targets and likelies where you are going to be just as happy and successful.

What if I have not started any college planning yet?

You are not too late. Many students begin the formal college process in junior year. Sarah Farbman notes that the most typical time families engage a college admissions consultant is late sophomore year or early junior year. If you are just getting started, prioritize: (1) ensure your course load is strong, (2) make a testing plan, (3) begin college research, and (4) consider professional guidance if you want expert support navigating the compressed timeline.

How do I choose between Early Decision and Early Action?

Early Decision is binding—if accepted, you must attend. It offers a meaningful admissions advantage but prevents you from comparing financial aid packages. Early Action is non-binding and helps break up your application workload. Sarah Farbman recommends that all students apply to at least three or four schools Early Action to secure an early acceptance and build confidence heading into winter break. Early Decision should be reserved for a school where you are both competitive and genuinely committed to attending, regardless of financial package.

Junior Year Is When Expert Guidance Matters Most

From testing strategy and college list building to essay development and application planning, our team helps families navigate the most complex year of the admissions process.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Continue the Grade-by-Grade Guide

Full Guide: College Advice for High School Students: The Complete Guide
Previous: 10th Grade College Admissions Guide
Next: Summer College Application Checklist for Rising Seniors

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]]> Get Help from an Admissions Insider https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/insider-advice-to-get-into-ivy-league-and-other-top-colleges-from-admissions-expert/ Wed, 09 Dec 2015 15:27:02 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=15262 Mark Montgomery is a college admissions insider: that means he knows the ropes, and can offer invaluable help in your college search.

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]]> When selecting the right college for you, an insider’s view can be helpful.  We visit colleges and universities all over the country in order to give us first-hand, up-close-and-personal understanding of each campus, its vibe, its academic strengths, and its resources.
We use this knowledge to help you pick the right colleges for you.
Check out this short video to get an idea of what we do for our clients.

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]]> SAT: Not only for Juniors and Seniors https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/the-sat-not-only-for-juniors-and-seniors/ Fri, 04 May 2012 20:06:30 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10552 It's not too early to start taking the SAT SUBJECT Tests in 9th grade...

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]]> No, I’m not one of those moms who makes their kids take the SAT in middle school.

But I do believe that if you have a 9th grader who is taking taking HONORS BIOLOGY,  it’s worth taking the SAT Subject Test in Biology NOW- before your child forgets about photosynthesis and everything else they learned.
Taking it now will give them a jump on all the tests that will be thrown at them junior year.

SUBJECT TESTS

There are a total of twenty SAT Subject tests in five different subject areas.  These include:  ENGLISH, HISTORY, MATH, SCIENCE and LANGUAGES.  Chances are your child won’t take more than four or five of these tests.

SUBJECT TESTS TO TAKE IN 9th and 10th GRADE INCLUDE:

Math 1 –  covers subjects up to Algebra 2.
Math 2 –  covers all math up to Calculus.
Biology – best to take when you are studying this in school.
Chemistry – best to take when you are studying this in school.
World History – great to take when you have AP World History in 10th grade.

According to the College Board,

“Students take the SAT Subject Tests to demonstrate to colleges their mastery of specific subjects such as English, history, mathematics, science, and foreign languages.”

And lackluster  SAT Reasoning Test scores can be offset by amazing SAT Subject Test scores.  That will be helpful when you’re applying to college – when you are a senior.

Great College Advice

 

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]]> Seniors, Are You Ready For May 1st? https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/seniors-are-you-ready-for-may-1/ Tue, 24 Apr 2012 17:07:10 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10468 May 1 is coming up quickly. How are you making your final decision this week?

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]]> We are closing in quickly on the May 1, national confirmation deadline for colleges and universities. This is the date that students must let the college or university know that you will be attending. Typically, this requires that you submit a signed confirmation form as well as an enrollment deposit. Often, you can think of this enrollment deposit like a security deposit for a house, it holds your spot.

Are you ready to make your commitment? How are you spending these last few days leading up to May 1 deciding?

– Flipping a coin?
– Trying that t-shirt with the college name on the front on one more time?
– Getting feedback from the people you trust?
– Reading the fine print on the financial aid forms once again?
– Chatting online with current students to get your final questions answered?
– Writing pro and con lists?
Everyone makes their final decision in a different way. My advice? It echoes that of our NACAC 2011 keynote speaker, Jonah Lehrer. Go with your gut.
Go with what your instinct tells you. You’ve visited the campuses, spent the time researching, read all of the brochures, gone on the website hundreds of times and now the time has come to take the next step. Listen to what your gut is telling you and ask yourself, “Will I be happy here?” Is the answer yes? Then sign your name on the dotted line and start getting excited for this new adventure you are about to embark on!

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]]> Looking for a Sustainable College? https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/looking-for-a-college-focused-on-sustainability/ Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:36:54 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10485 Don't forget to think about the values that are important to you as you search for colleges. Are you passionate about being green and sustainability efforts? Colleges are making big strides these days so take notice!

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]]> Do you consider yourself an environmentalist? Are sustainable efforts important to you? In honor of Earth Day I thought I would take a look at colleges with sustainable practices.
Colleges across the country are rolling out new sustainable practices. Take the time to learn about them when you do your campus visit! Check out some examples of colleges who are taking “being green” to new heights.
The University of Vermont announced this winter that they will become one of the first institutions nationwide to end the sale of bottled water on campus and mandate that at least one-third of the drinks that are in the vending machines on campus be healthy options.
Colorado College offers an organic food buying coop where each week students, faculty, and administrators have the option of buying a box of fruit, vegetables, or meats from local farmers in Southern Colorado and New Mexico. They also have an impressive composting program!
Colby College recently did a light bulb exchange where they distributed dozens of compact fluorescent bulbs to  faculty and staff in exchange for their energy inefficient bulbs.
At the University of Minnesota they have at least 200 alternative fuel vehicles, offer preferable parking to carpoolers and give public transit discounts to students and employees.
The University of Michigan operates a natural gas facility that meets 50 percent of campus energy needs. Their campus also features a solar hot water system and a 35-kilowatt solar array.
At the University of Colorado Boulder they have five LEED Gold buildings, use only non-VOC paints and green cleaning products on campus. They also employ ten full time sustainability staff and department eco-leaders.

These are just a few highlights. There are lots more out there to explore!

Great College Advice

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]]> Filling Out Your Housing Application https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/tips-for-filling-out-your-housing-application/ Sat, 21 Apr 2012 15:18:50 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10450 During a recent visit to the University of Northern Colorado I asked a friend who works in their residence life office for tips to give to incoming first year students when filling out their housing application. Hear what she has to say!

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]]> Once you have decided where you are going to attend college there are lots of “next steps” to take. One of the big ones is to filling out your housing application to determine where you are going to live on campus. Who you are going to live with? Each college and university has a slightly different process for how they do this. So make sure to pay attention to the information you receive in the mail, or via email, from the housing office.

Video Recap:

After a visit to the University of Northern Colorado, I had a chance to connect with one of my graduate school friends who now works in residence life. She shared a few tips about filling out the housing application.

1) Be honest on the housing application. Students, please please please – fill it out yourself! Whether you are messy or clean, a late riser or an early-to-bed kind of person, or a smoker/nonsmoker. You want to let the housing office know so they can match you with a roommate who will complement your style.

2) Look for living and learning communities. Living and learning communities are great ways to connect with students who share a common interest. There are often extra perks such as taking classes right in your residence hall, access to special field trips, guest lectures, proximity to your classes, etc.

Video Course for College Admissions

3) You are going to be sharing space. Be ready to learn how to compromise! Sharing your room can be a challenging experience. If it is your first time doing so. Set up a contract with your roommate and certain guidelines you want to follow to be respectful of one another.

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]]> International Student Visa: FAQs https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/international-student-immigration-issues-3-frequently-asked-questions-about-the-student-visa/ Wed, 11 Apr 2012 13:00:43 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10367 Have questions about your international student visa? We answer some of them here!

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]]> Laurie Woog, our guest-blogging immigration attorney from the Woog Law Office, LLC, answers the most common questions asked about the international student visa:
Even if you have reviewed the U.S. Embassy’s website 50 times, and you have assembled all your documents, paid your fees, put all your old passports in chronological order, and made travel arrangements, you may still have some worries or questions about obtaining your student visa.

Here are some of the questions we encounter most often from international students.

Q. What is the “presumption of immigrant intent” that I keep hearing about?

A. This means that the United States government, and therefore the embassy or consular staff, assumes that every visa applicant wants to stay in the U.S. permanently. Even if you are applying for a temporary visa, you must prove that you intend to return home after your authorized period of stay concludes. See our previous blog about the type of proof you will need to show this intent.

Q. How long will it take for me to obtain my visa?

A. There are various factors that affect the waiting process, such as an applicant’s country of origin, age, name, marital status or field of study. For example, applicants who study or have worked in sensitive areas may be subject to extended security checks. Some of these fields include munitions; nuclear technology; rocket systems; chemical, biotechnology and biomedical engineering; advanced computer/ microelectronic technology; information security; sensor technology; etc. To allow time to overcome any unforeseen problems that might arise, students are encouraged to apply for their visas several weeks before they plan to travel, or more, depending on the country.

Q. Can I bring my wife and child with me to the U.S. while I am on a student visa?

A. Yes, you may bring dependents. They will need visa interviews as well and should receive F-2 visas. You should make sure you have proof of your relationship to your spouse and/or children such as marriage and birth certificates, family registers, etc. It is best for families to apply for their visas at the same time. However, if your spouse and children must apply later, they should bring a copy of your passport and visa, along with all other required documents. F-2 visa holders are not allowed to work in the U.S.

Q. What if my application for a visa is denied? What can I do?

A. Consular officials have a great deal of discretion to approve or deny a visa. Their decisions are not normally subject to review or appeal. However, it may be possible to ask the chief of the consulate to reconsider the decision, or to ask for an advisory opinion at the Department of State in Washington, D.C. on a legal issue. If your visa application is denied, you may want to consult an attorney for assistance in describing all the facts of the case, any additional evidence, and to try to obtain a different decision.

Q. Do I have to have an interview if I apply to change my status in the U.S. from visitor (B-2) to student (F-1)?

A. No, you do not. If you request a “change of status” from one category to another while remaining in the U.S., you send your request to USCIS, a division of the Department of Homeland Security, on Form I-539. There is no interview for this process. However, you will need to maintain valid nonimmigrant (temporary) status in order to effect this change. This means that you cannot apply to change status after your authorized stay expires. Also, in some cases, USCIS will not approve a change to student status unless you informed the consulate at your B-2 interview that you were thinking about eventually studying in the U.S.

Let us know if you have any more questions that we haven’t addressed here!
Andrea Aronson
College Admissions Specialist
Westfield, NJ

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]]> College Bookstores – Not Just Books https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/college-bookstores-not-just-for-books-anymore/ Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:12:04 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10297 Why is a visit to the college bookstore worthwhile during a college visit? Read more to see what today's college bookstore has in store for you. It's not all about the books...

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]]> How many college tours have you been on where the campus tour ended at the bookstore? Did you take the time to go inside and look around?
One of my favorite things to do when visiting a college campus is to visit the college bookstore – not necessarily to buy anything- just to see what they have in stock, how easily accessibly everything is, and to see a little bit of the spirit of the school.
College bookstores have changed significantly over the past few years.  While they used to be the go-to spot for text books, many students are now ordering books online through Amazon for cheaper prices, renting textbooks, or purchasing copies on their tablet device. College bookstores have also had a strong hold on college apparel for many years as a place for prospective students to buy the sweatshirt of their dream school or current students to stock up on clothing for the big game…but what else can you find there besides books and clothing?
A recent visit to the University of Colorado’s bookstore had some fun surprises including: pasta, rubik’s cubes, cowboy boots, dog treats and more! In addition, there were art materials, dorm decorations, grill sets, chairs, calendars, computers, snacks, along with all of the textbooks and clothing items.

Take the time to check out the bookstore on your next college visit, you never know what you might find!
 
Mark Montgomery
Expert Educational Consultant

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]]> Is It April 1st Yet? https://greatcollegeadvice.com/blog/is-it-april-1st-yet/ Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:01:51 +0000 https://greatcollegeadvice.com/?p=10272 Colleges have until April 1st to send the final word on their admissions decisions. Here are the top 10 things you can do to make the wait fly by!

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]]> Seniors everywhere are anxiously awaiting their college admission decisions.  Colleges have until April 1st to send the final word.  Here are the top 10 things you can do to make the next week fly by!
10.  Check your email.  Maybe the decision was sent while you read the title of this blog post?
9.  Check the mail.  Do you know every move your mail carrier makes yet?
8.  Get outside.  Maybe a little fresh air will make the time pass.
7.  Prepare for your AP exams.  They will be here before you know it!
6.  Do your homework.  Even though it is second semester senior year, you still have to graduate!
5. Read a book.  Not something you have to read, but something you have always wanted to read.
4.  Check your email again.  Maybe it is there now?
3. Think about what you will say in your Facebook status once the decision finally arrives.
2.  Laugh and smile.
1.  Relax.  Remember this will not determine the rest of your life.  It is just one small part of the journey!
 
 
Katherine Price
Senior Associate
Great College Advice
 

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