The Junior Year Checklist: Everything Your Teen Needs to Do NOW for College Admissions

Junior year is the most critical year in the college admissions process. This is when students take challenging coursework, finalize extracurricular commitments, and start preparing for applications. Parents often ask, "What should we be doing now to stay ahead?"

Here’s your ultimate Junior Year College Admissions Checklist to ensure your teen stays on track:

✅ Fall Semester

  • Maintain strong grades—junior year GPA is key!
  • Explore leadership roles in extracurricular activities.
  • Take the PSAT (if applicable) for National Merit Scholarship eligibility.
  • Research and build an initial college list.

✅ Winter Break & Early Spring

  • Start prepping for the SAT/ACT (or decide on a test-optional strategy).
  • Begin thinking about summer programs or internships to strengthen applications.
  • Schedule spring college visits and attend virtual info sessions.

✅ Spring & Summer Before Senior Year

  • Finalize a balanced college list (reach, match, and safety schools).
  • Ask teachers for letters of recommendation.
  • Brainstorm personal statement topics and start essay drafts.
  • Develop an application timeline with early decision/action deadlines.

📞 Feeling overwhelmed? I guide families through this process step by step. Let’s chat!
📚 Visit www.highperformanceacademics.com to get started today.

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