It’s never too early to start planning for college. Our
guide to college planning for 9th graders provides you with an
essential checklist needed to start navigating the college process early on, so
you have your best shot at reaching your college goals.
1. Create
a transition plan to help you smoothly navigate your way from Middle School to
High School. Make sure to set both long term and short term
academic, social and personal goals for
the school year. Set up an effective study routine for yourself. Do take time
out for rest and relaxation. Learn to advocate for yourself and reach out to
teachers if you need help.
2. Plan
your four year academic coursework. The IECA 2020 nationwide
survey on what colleges look for in high school students reports rigor of
coursework and GPA as the top two factors for college admissions. Make sure to
take courses that challenge you in subjects that genuinely reflect your
interests. Choose electives that highlight academic interests. Balance your
priorities for strong grades vs academic rigor, while keeping in mind academic
commitments.
3. Start developing an extracurricular profile
by exploring a broad range of activities based on your interest and
personality. Participate in a school club or organization, take part in sports,
theater, music or volunteer activities. Start planning your job or volunteer
work for the summer. Make sure to do something different from your classmates
that helps you stand out.
4. Start
researching the different types of colleges. Look at the
differences between private and public universities. Start by visiting college
campuses in your area that include liberal arts colleges, universities,
technical/professional schools and community colleges. Take notes on what are
some of the things you like and don’t like about each of them.
5. Keep
up your grades Freshman year grades matter and are looked at
by colleges while making college admission decisions. GPA is considered one of
the top two factors for college admissions! Also, doing exceptionally well
academically increases your chances of receiving merit aid.
6. Start
saving for college Consider investing in a 529 Educational Saving
Plan. There are tax benefits to this pre-paid tuition plan and every dollar you
save is a dollar less you’ll need to borrow.
Need more
help with college planning? As always, feel free to reach out to me via
e-mail [email protected] or call me 650-596-9583 to set up a FREE
45 min initial consultation via my contact form.
I am here to support you and your family through the college admissions
process.