Getting ready for college: a four-year checklist for high school students.

• Author: Schupp, Sarah
• Position: SPECIAL SECTION: Junior Achievement

Most of this checklist will be done by the student, but parents can encourage, proofread, and help the whole process stay on track.

Freshmen Plan

* Create a free profile at jamyway.org to create a resume, explore career fields, budget for college, and receive tips to launch a business or startup.

* Take challenging classes in core academic courses.

* Work with a school counselor to create a yearly schedule for meeting graduation requirements.

* Talk to an advisor or school counselor about taking AP and honors courses.

* Get involved with community-based and leadership-oriented activities.

Sophomore Plan

* Attend college and career events.

* Research funding opportunities for college including scholarships, grants, loans, etc.

* Reach out to mentors in fields of interest.

* Continue exploring college and career options.

* Consider taking a practice test to prepare for the PSAT.

Juniors--Fall Plan

* Take the PSAT. Students must take the test in eleventh grade to qualify for National Merit scholarships and programs.

* Attend college-prep presentations.

* Register for college admission exams (SAT and ACT); take practice tests to prepare.

* Make a spreadsheet of target schools with deadlines for Early/Regular/Late/Rolling decision.

* Contact colleges to request information and applications.

Juniors--Spring Plan

* Start college visits.

* Narrow down the colleges being considered.

* Make decisions regarding early decision or early action programs.

* Enter and/or update information in the FAFSA4caster.

* Take a look at your social media presence and keep in mind that some colleges check social media when making decisions on whether or not to accept a student.

Seniors--Fall Plan

* Register for and take (or retake) the SAT and/or ACT, if not already done.

* Complete and submit college applications prior to deadlines.

* Complete and submit scholarship applications prior to deadlines.

* Request transcripts and letters of recommendation.

* Register for a Federal Student Aid PIN.

* Meet with a counselor to verify that graduation requirements will be met on schedule.

* Work with parents to complete and submit the FAFSA.

* Consider...