9
Freshman Year
Applying for college earlier increases your chances of admission by close to 25%. Start everything (advanced classes, organizations, saving money, etc.) early and don't fall behind!
Academics
- Meet with your counselor to plan a 4-year academic track
- Register for AP/Honors/IB classes if available
- Begin foreign language sequence (2-4 years recommended for selective schools)
- Focus on maintaining a strong GPA (colleges track from 9th grade)
Activities
- Join 2-3 clubs, sports, or community organizations
- Start a passion project or capstone idea
- Volunteer or participate in summer enrichment programs
- Begin tracking extracurriculars and awards
10
Sophomore Year
Balance is key: academic prep is important, but so is your mental health and well-being.
Academics & Testing
- Update your 4-year plan with your counselor
- Continue AP/IB/Honors courses
- Take the PSAT for practice
- Explore possible college majors
- Start tutoring with Victory Prep Tutors for academic support or test prep
Activities
- Deepen involvement in 2-3 core activities
- Seek leadership opportunities
- Attend college fairs and information sessions
- Volunteer, work, or attend a summer program
11
Junior Year
Most students spend less than 10 hours studying for the SAT/ACT. Get ahead with professional test prep!
Academics & Testing
- Meet with counselor to review graduation and college requirements
- Take AP/IB courses and exams
- Take the PSAT/NMSQT (for National Merit eligibility)
- Plan SAT/ACT testing (aim for final scores by summer)
- Work with Victory Prep Tutors for SAT/ACT or subject test prep
College Planning
- Build a balanced college list (reach, match, safety)
- Visit colleges (in-person or virtually)
- Start brainstorming and outlining your personal statement
- Request letters of recommendation before summer
- Finalize extracurricular capstone project details
12
Senior Year
Admissions officers look at GPA, coursework, test scores, extracurriculars, recommendations, and your essays.
Applications
- Finalize college list and application deadlines (EA/ED/RD)
- Complete Common App or UC application (opens August 1)
- Submit applications by deadlines (UC: Oct 1–Nov 30, most others: Nov–Jan)
- Request and send transcripts and test scores (if required)
- Polish essays and supplements
- Apply for scholarships and financial aid (FAFSA opens Oct 1)
Decisions & Next Steps
- Track application portals for notifications
- Respond to offers and submit Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) by May 1
- Submit final transcripts by July 1; AP/IB scores by July 15
- Attend admitted student events and orientations
- Prepare for transition to college (housing, health forms, summer assignments)
Ready for Your College Journey?
Our 2025–2026 admissions experts are ready to help you stand out in the competitive landscape.
Call (877) 638-0707