Junior Calendar Tips

Plan your path to education success with these month-by-month calendars, a resource from the CollegeSTEPS Program. Take the ACT or SAT as many times as you can, deadlines will be coming at you quickly once your senior year gets here!

August

Review your high school courses and activities. Colleges look for challenging course work, strong grades, and extracurricular activities

September

Browse college catalogs and guidebooks, and surf the Internet for information
List 10 colleges you would like to attend
Talk to your parents and high school guidance counselor about that list to narrow it down.
Plan to attend college fairs and parents' nights in your area.
Attend financial aid nights in the area

October

Take the PSAT
Research AP college courses you have or might take and the AP tests for those classes
Continue researching organizations that award scholarships to graduating seniors. You may need to apply for them the summer after your junior year.

November

Learn about eligibility requirements for federal and private student loans.
Talk as a family about how much you can afford to spend on your education.

January

Plan for the next round of tests: SATs and ACTs
Attend financial aid nights in the areas

February

Investigate private scholarships and other aid programs. Check with your parents' employers, local membership organizations, or programs related to your intended course of study
Make the most of spring break with a week long college tour.
Register for the SAT or ACT.

March

Visit the three to six schools on your final list. Schedule an admission interview and an overnight stay. Take time at each school's financial aid office to collect information.
Take the ACT or SAT.
Mark your calendar with the dates for future tests.

May

Take the SAT or ACT
Mark your calendar with the dates for future tests.

June

Continue researching organizations that award scholarships to graduating seniors. You may need to apply for them the summer after your junior year