College Admissions Process

Ninth and Tenth Grades

Freshman and sophomore years introduce students to the college admissions testing process. During 9th and 10th grade, the PSAT or practice for the SAT is introduced to students. Although these tests are given for practice and to acquaint students with testing procedures, these scores do appear on student high school transcripts. By now, students are into the heart of the high school curriculum. Students take English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language classes each of these first two years. It is much easier to establish a high GPA during these two years and suffer small setbacks as more difficult courses are encountered, than to start out low and then try to raise a GPA.

Parents can help greatly during these years by encouraging high grades and scores in classes and on tests. This is a very good time for visiting colleges and continuing to research possible career choices. In fact, planning a work-study option in a certain career field during Interim of the sophomore year can give a student valuable information about a possible career choice, or provide the basis for more research. Students and parents should attend college fairs, begin to gather college information, and request placement on mailing lists for future updates.

Freshman Year

Plan of Action for Freshman Year

Take courses which are challenging but not overwhelming.
Keep grades as high as possible and begin preparations for a strong transcript.
Participate in clubs and sports of interest.
Start visiting and/or writing colleges to get information.
Study for and take the PSAT - do as well as you can.
Become familiar with the college preparation process.
Understand the various parts of the transcript.

Sophomore Year

Plan of Action for Sophomore Year

Continue taking a strong college-prep curriculum. Consider AP and Honors classes, if applicable.
Work on raising your GPA as high as level possible.
Continue participation in sports and other activities.
Visit colleges and request information.
Study for and re-take the PSAT with a goal to improve your earlier score.
Begin talking to older siblings and friends about their colleges.

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