Plan junior year courses

Overview

Junior year is the most important academic year for college admissions. Planning now ensures you're ready for the challenge!

Meeting with Your Counselor

Before the Meeting

• Review your transcript and completed courses
• Check A-G progress
• List courses you're considering
• Note any questions about prerequisites

Questions to Ask

• What courses do you recommend for my goals?
• How many APs is realistic for me?
• Are there prerequisites I need?
• How competitive are certain courses to get into?

Recommended Junior Year Courses

Core Classes

• English: AP English Language or Honors English 11
• Math: AP Calculus, Pre-Calculus, or Algebra 2/Trig
• Science: AP Chemistry, AP Biology, or AP Physics
• History: AP US History (often required)
• Language: Continue to Level 3+

Electives

• APs in areas of genuine interest
• Courses aligned with potential major
• Opportunities to deepen your "spike"

Balancing Rigor and Wellbeing

Questions to Consider

• Can I maintain good grades in this schedule?
• Will I have time for activities?
• Is this sustainable for the full year?

Remember

An A in Honors beats a B in AP for most admissions purposes. Don't overload yourself!

UC GPA Consideration

Only 8 honors points count (max 4 from sophomore year). Focus on courses you'll excel in, not just adding more APs.