We are often asked whether it is too early to start the college admissions process in the 10th grade. The answer is, like many things in life, it depends. If you are keenly interested in the college process and motivated to get started, the spring semester of 10th grade is a perfect time to begin exploring the world of college admissions.
10th grade is an exciting time as you have hopefully found a nice rhythm between your academics, extracurriculars, and social life. As you gain more confidence and continue to explore classes and activities that excite you, here are areas to focus on in the college admissions process entering your second semester of 10th grade.
Finish 10th grade strong in terms of GPA
Grades are generally regarded as the top factor in gaining admission to college so continue to make studying your primary focus in 10th grade. Your GPA trend is also analyzed by college admission officers so look to improve, if possible, your sophomore year grades relative to your freshman GPA.
Aim for course rigor as you draft your 11th grade schedule
Hopefully you have been thoughtful in your course selection to this point, maintaining a strong GPA while taking challenging classes and putting in your best effort. As you begin to strategize your junior year course schedule, keep in mind that your 11th grade GPA and course rigor will be the most scrutinized by college admissions officers. Plan to take as many rigorous classes as possible, including AP and honors courses, while striving to maintain that balance of a high GPA. Work with your high school counselor to make sure you’re not taking on too much but that you’re also challenging yourself. You may want to also discuss dual enrollment options, whereby you take community college classes to earn both college and high school credits.
Continue to refine your extracurriculars (ECs) and explore leadership roles
Pursue those extracurricular interests that engage you and that give you a sense of accomplishment. It’s not what you do: it’s how well you do it. Commitment and achievement are more important than the volume of activities. Start bringing more focus to the activities about which you care most. These activities could be as part of the school such as academic clubs and sports or could be a passion outside of school. But, either way, focus on the interests that you truly care about and deepen your commitments to those areas. If possible, spend time identifying ways to enhance the club or organization and bring these ideas to life. Being a participant is great, but learning to lead and make a difference outside the classroom is an accomplishment that colleges truly value. Make connections with the current leaders of your organizations as you may have the opportunity in 11th grade to step into their leadership role(s).
Develop a standardized testing plan
Depending on your high school, you may have already taken a PSAT practice test in the fall of 10th grade and/or will be taking the PSAT 10 this spring. Either way, do not stress about these tests as they don’t count for anything. They are just your introduction to the world of standardized college tests. Using your score on this early test as a guide, begin to lay out a plan for your junior year of ACT or SAT testing. You may want to consider researching test preparation tutors or classes. Although most colleges remain test-optional post-COVID, some selective schools are beginning to require test scores again. So, plan on sitting at least once for the SAT or ACT in your junior year.
Brainstorm what factors may be important to you in selecting a college
While you shouldn’t necessarily start making a college list at this point, now is a good time to think about what you want from a school in general. Big or small? Urban or rural? Generous with scholarships? Lots of Greek life or none at all? There are a lot of things that you need to consider, so start thinking about them now.
Visit colleges near you over 10th grade spring break
If you are sticking around for spring break or possibly have a few days off for February break, plan a visit to a few nearby colleges. Check out a big school vs. a small school or a public university vs. a liberal arts college. Sign up in advance through the respective admissions offices for a tour. Or, if you’re not comfortable on a formal tour, just spend some time wandering around to get a feel for the college. When you’re on campus, think about whether you can envision yourself at a school like this. By starting local and thinking more thoughtfully about what is important to you, you will be able to become more strategic when it comes to building your college list in 11th grade.
Attend a college fair
Also, use the second semester of your sophomore year to attend a college fair near you. Visiting college booths and talking to admissions representatives is a great way to learn more about potential colleges of interest. Introduce yourself, talk to the admissions representative, and ask questions. Visit their website and sign up for their email distribution list. The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has numerous college fairs scheduled across the country beginning in late January. In the Denver area, the Rocky Mountain Association for College Admission Counseling (RMACAC) is holding its spring college fair in early March.
Begin thinking about your summer plans
Summer is filled with endless opportunities for high school students, such as:
- Getting a job or internship;
- volunteering or participating in a community service program;
- taking college classes or attending an academic program on a college campus;
- playing organized sports or going to a sports camp;
- traveling abroad or participating in a travel or adventure program;
- participating in performing arts (i.e., community theater) or attending an arts or music camp;
If you’re planning to work and save money for college this summer – congratulations! Having a job demonstrates commitment, responsibility, and maturity — all things that college admissions officers like to see. In terms of rounding out your summer outside of work, it’s important to consider the same questions you’d ask when choosing activities for the school year: What do I enjoy doing? What am I passionate about? How can I achieve something and/or demonstrate leadership? Additionally, keep in mind that summer may offer you a chance to pursue interests that you aren’t able to engage in during the school year.
Build a resume or “brag sheet”
You’ll find lots of examples online or ask your high counselor and/or family for tips on building a resume. Drafting a resume will be helpful as you brainstorm your summer plans – as you can more quickly apply to job/internship opportunities as well as academic or arts programs. Taking the time to put together a resume will also help you see your achievements halfway through your sophomore year and point out areas which could use more attention. Again, remember that the goal is excellence and achievement (i.e., quality), not simply checking off boxes on a form {i.e., quantity).
Enjoy Yourself – 10th Grade is not a time to stress about college admissions
Find time for fun both inside and outside the classroom. Hopefully your extracurriculars bring you joy, where you get the opportunity to pad your activities list while having fun with friends along the way. Hopefully reading is an outside the classroom activity you enjoy because you get the benefit of reading being a stress reliever while learning along the way. Let your family know if you feel that your life is becoming too stressful. The college admission process can feel overwhelming but please try to enjoy your high school experience. Focus on personal growth, intellectual exploration, and developing your interests.
Eager to start the college admissions process in 10th grade?
This to-do list contains recommendations to stay on track and take control of the college planning process during your sophomore year of high school. However, if you feel as though you need some personal guidance so that you can blaze your trail toward college success, please contact us for a free consultation. The team at Great College Advice has deep experience in guiding students along the road from high school to college. We provide personalized college consulting focused on helping make the process of preparing, selecting, and applying to college more successful, less stressful, and more fun.
