Junior year academics matter most to admissions officers. Taking challenging courses shows you're ready for college-level work - and you're more prepared than you might think!
Taking the most challenging courses available to you in which you can earn As or Bs. This typically includes:
Rigorous doesn't mean overwhelming! Quality matters more than quantity. An A in Honors often looks better than a C in AP.
The UC GPA caps honors points at 8 semesters total (with max 4 from 10th grade), but taking additional challenging courses still demonstrates rigor to admissions reviewers.
Build in time for activities, sleep, and mental health. Colleges want students who challenge themselves sustainably!
Focus on final exams
Freshman Year
No room for slipping
Junior Year
Continue intensive prep
Junior Year
Maintain grades through end
Junior Year
Use net price calculators
Junior Year