When should I start preparing for college admission?

You should start preparing in freshman year of high school. This includes focusing on grades, exploring extracurricular activities, and beginning to think about your interests and potential career paths.

What are the most important college admission deadlines?

Key deadlines include: Early Decision/Early Action (November 1-15), Regular Decision (January 1-15), FAFSA opens (October 1), and CSS Profile deadline (varies by school). Our timeline tracker helps you never miss a deadline.

How many college admission tasks are there?

There are 374+ tasks across all four years of high school, including academic preparation, standardized testing, extracurricular activities, college research, applications, and financial aid.

What is included in the admission timeline?

The timeline includes tasks for: A-G requirements tracking, standardized test prep (SAT/ACT/AP), college research and visits, application essays, letters of recommendation, financial aid (FAFSA/CSS), and scholarship applications.

Strong second semester start - Junior Year College Admission

Overview

Second semester matters too! While first semester grades are in your calculated GPA, second semester shows consistency and commitment.

Why It Matters

Demonstrates continued dedication (no "senioritis" early!)
Reported on mid-year transcripts to colleges
Appears on your final transcript
Shows your character under pressure

First Week Actions

Review syllabi — note major assignments and tests
Set up your organizational system (calendar with all due dates)
Start homework immediately — don't fall behind
Visit office hours to maintain teacher relationships
Reflect on what worked first semester and adjust

Academic Goals

Maintain or improve grades from first semester
Avoid any C grades if possible
Show an upward trajectory if first semester wasn't your best

Balance

Second semester is busy with testing, activities, and college prep. Create a weekly schedule that includes study time, activities, AND rest.

Encouraging Thought

You've made it through the hardest semester of high school! You've got the experience and knowledge to handle this one even better.

Overview

Second semester matters too! While first semester grades are in your calculated GPA, second semester shows consistency and commitment.

Why It Matters

Demonstrates continued dedication (no "senioritis" early!)
Reported on mid-year transcripts to colleges
Appears on your final transcript
Shows your character under pressure

First Week Actions

Review syllabi — note major assignments and tests
Set up your organizational system (calendar with all due dates)
Start homework immediately — don't fall behind
Visit office hours to maintain teacher relationships
Reflect on what worked first semester and adjust

Academic Goals

Maintain or improve grades from first semester
Avoid any C grades if possible
Show an upward trajectory if first semester wasn't your best

Balance

Second semester is busy with testing, activities, and college prep. Create a weekly schedule that includes study time, activities, AND rest.

Encouraging Thought

You've made it through the hardest semester of high school! You've got the experience and knowledge to handle this one even better.

Strong second semester start

Step-by-Step Guide

Overview

Why It Matters

First Week Actions

Academic Goals

Balance

Encouraging Thought

Task Details

Track Your Progress

Related Tasks

Strong second semester start

Step-by-Step Guide

Overview

Why It Matters

First Week Actions

Academic Goals

Balance

Encouraging Thought

Task Details

Track Your Progress

Related Tasks