As your teen approaches the middle of their junior year, it is essential to consider college planning. There are many tasks high school juniors should focus on, from college visits to SAT or ACT testing, that will place them in a better standing as they transition into seniors. Review the following to ensure your child accomplishes all the necessary college prep during their junior year.

What Can Juniors Do to Get Ready for College?

1. Evaluate College Options

Junior year is the time a teen needs to select and narrow down their college options. Make a list of criteria together, including location, available majors, tuition, and student body size. Juniors should begin scheduling campus tours in the spring. Many colleges offer virtual tours if you do not wish to visit in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Volunteer & Join Extracurricular Activities

Getting involved in school and the community is not only great for your child’s college application, but it will also help them develop into a more well-rounded adult. Students should participate in extracurricular activities, volunteer efforts, and leadership opportunities. For example, they can play a sport or join the debate team. 

3. Talk to Teachers & Guidance Counselors

High school juniors should form close relationships with their teachers and guidance counselors. Colleges and scholarships often require letters of recommendation, so it’s a good idea to have a few teachers your child can ask. Guidance counselors will discuss goals with your teen and ensure they take the classes they need before college.

4. Prepare for the SAT or ACT

A good SAT or ACT score can set your child’s college application apart from the rest. Most high school students begin taking the SAT or ACT the spring of their junior year, then take additional tests to improve their scores the following summer or fall of senior year. From now until their test date, they’ll need to prepare. Your teen may also benefit from SAT or ACT prep.

When your child is ready to register for the SAT or ACT, improve their chances of success by partnering with Peach State Tutoring & Test Prep. Serving Roswell, Johns Creek, Milton, Cumming, Duluth, Norcross, Suwanee, and Alpharetta, GA, this tutoring center offers SAT prep, ACT prep, and academic tutoring that will elevate your student’s performance. If you can’t decide between the SAT or ACT, they offer a free diagnostic test that evaluates which exam your teen will score higher on. Learn more about test preparation online, or call (678) 824-6890 to find the right tutor for your child.