CAPS Logo

Back to School: A Year-by-Year Guide for Students and Parents Preparing for College

School papers, books, pens, sticky notes, and more items strewn across a table.

As the new school year kicks off, it's a great time for students and parents to start thinking about the future, especially if college is on the horizon. Preparing for college can be an overwhelming process for many families, so it is important to start planning early — even as early as freshman year of high school — to make it a bit more manageable.

Here's a comprehensive guide to navigate the college prep journey effectively, broken down by grade level. Whether you're a high school student with big dreams or a parent looking to support your child every step of the way, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about preparing for college.

Freshman Year: Building the Foundation

For Students:

  1. Focus on Academics: Freshman year sets the tone for high school performance. Aim for good grades and develop solid study habits. Colleges look at GPA trends, so starting strong can make a significant difference.
  2. Get Involved: Join clubs, sports, or other extracurricular activities. This not only helps in personal growth, but also enhances your resume later. Explore different interests to discover what you’re passionate about.
  3. Understand College Basics: Start familiarizing yourself with what colleges look for. This includes understanding the importance of GPA, standardized tests, and extracurricular involvement.

For Parents:

  1. Support Academic Efforts: Encourage good study habits and provide a welcoming environment for learning. Regular check-ins on academic progress can help catch any issues early.
  2. Encourage Exploration: Support your child in trying out various extracurricular activities. This exploration is crucial for them to discover their interests and strengths.
  3. Promote Awareness: Talk about college and its benefits, but avoid putting on pressure. Instead, focus on the importance of developing a solid academic and extracurricular foundation.

Sophomore Year: Expanding Horizons

For Students:

  1. Strengthen Your Academic Record: Continue to focus on your grades. Consider taking advanced courses if you're ready, as these can help you stand out.
  2. Start Standardized Test Prep: Begin preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Sophomore year is a great time to familiarize yourself with test formats and start light prep work.
  3. Explore Interests: Take advantage of opportunities to dive deeper into your interests through summer programs, internships, or volunteer work. These experiences can help refine your career path and college targets.

For Parents:

  1. Encourage and Guide: Support your child in choosing classes that align with their strengths and interests. Discuss potential career paths and college interests without applying undue pressure.
  2. Plan for Standardized Tests: Help your child create a plan for standardized test preparation. Look into prep courses or study materials and discuss the testing process with them.
  3. Support Exploration: Assist in finding summer programs or extracurricular activities that align with your child's interests. Encourage them to pursue passions and build their resume.

Junior Year: The Crucial Preparations

For Students:

  1. Continue to Focus on Academic Excellence: Junior year grades are critical. Maintain a strong GPA and take challenging courses to demonstrate your readiness for college-level work.
  2. Take Standardized Tests: Aim to take the SAT or ACT. Junior year is typically when students take these tests for the first time. Consider taking them multiple times if necessary to achieve your best score.
  3. Research Colleges: Start researching colleges and universities. Consider factors such as location, size, programs offered, and campus culture. Attend college fairs and campus tours to get a feel for different schools.
  4. Start the College Application Process: Begin drafting your resume and personal statement. Gather letters of recommendation and start preparing a list of potential colleges.

For Parents:

  1. Be Actively Involved: Help your child with their college research and application process. Provide guidance on selecting schools and understanding financial aid options. Consider working with a college admissions counselor for expert help.
  2. Support Test Prep: Ensure your child has the resources needed for standardized test preparation. Encourage them to take practice tests and seek help if needed.
  3. Discuss Finances: Begin discussing the financial aspects of college, including tuition, scholarships, and financial aid. This helps in setting realistic expectations and planning accordingly.

Senior Year: The Final Stretch

For Students:

  1. Complete Applications: Finalize and submit college applications. Pay close attention to deadlines and ensure all components, including essays and recommendation letters, are submitted on time.
  2. Prepare for Interviews: If your colleges require interviews, practice common questions and answers. This can help ease anxiety and present yourself confidently.
  3. Review Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and any other financial aid applications. Review and compare financial aid offers from different colleges.
  4. Stay Focused Academically: Keep up your grades during your senior year. Colleges will review your final transcripts, so it's essential to maintain your performance.

For Parents:

  1. Offer Support and Encouragement: The application process can be stressful. Offer emotional support and encouragement to help your child through this demanding time.
  2. Assist with Financial Aid: Help with FAFSA and other financial aid applications. Stay organized with paperwork and deadlines to ensure a smooth process.
  3. Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate your child's achievements and milestones throughout the college application process. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation.

Setting Yourself Up for School Success

Preparing for college doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you're a student getting ready for the future or a parent guiding the way, staying proactive and organized is the key to success.

Looking for more tips to make the most of this school year? CAPS is here to help! Reach out to us for a free 15-minute consultation to discover how our services can support both students and parents through the college preparation journey.

Here's to a fantastic start and a smooth path ahead!

Back To Blogs & Resources