Preparing for college is a journey that begins long before applications are due in senior year. While it may seem early to consider college during freshman year of high school, the truth is each year holds unique opportunities for students to grow academically, explore their interests and develop a sense of independence.
For parents, understanding how to support your student each step of the way can make all the difference. Here’s a year-by-year guide to help your student feel prepared, confident and excited about their college future.
Freshman year
The first year of high school is a time of adjustment and self-discovery. As a freshman, your student is taking a big leap from middle school, and this year serves as a crucial foundation for academic and personal growth. While college may still feel far off, the habits and activities your student develops now can set them on the right path.
Encourage your student to establish consistent study routines and practice good time management. Freshman year offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with different study methods, build organizational skills and find out what works best for them academically.
Outside the classroom, this is also a great time for your student to explore extracurriculars. High school is a chance to try new things, so whether it’s joining a club, participating in sports or volunteering, encourage them to pursue interests that spark their curiosity.
Lastly, become familiar with your school’s graduation requirements. Each state and district has specific courses and credits that must be completed, and understanding these early on will help you to guide your student’s course selections and ensure they’re on track for college.
Building a strong foundation
📌 Tip: Help your student experiment with different study methods to find what works best for them academically! For more tips, check out our blog, A Parent’s Guide on How to Motivate a High School Student.
Sophomore year
Sophomore year is about building on the foundation laid in freshman year. With a year of high school experience behind them, students can begin focusing on more specific goals and interests. This is also a great time to start thinking about potential career paths, which can make the idea of college feel more tangible and motivating.
To help your student start considering future possibilities, many high schools offer career inventories or online assessments that match students’ interests with potential careers. This isn’t about locking in a major or profession just yet; it’s simply a chance to start exploring options.
Academically, sophomore year is the time for students to start challenging themselves with more advanced coursework. If they’re ready, encourage them to consider Honors or AP classes, as these can demonstrate academic rigor on college applications. Taking the PSAT as a sophomore can also be beneficial, providing early insight into the SAT format and helping students identify areas for improvement.
And, although it may feel early, sophomore year is a smart time to start thinking about saving for college if you haven’t already. Even small contributions can add up over time, and this financial preparation can alleviate stress in senior year.
Focusing & planning
🔍 Look Ahead: Explore college savings plans or small investment strategies to support future college expenses. Have your student try concurrent courses to earn college credit in high school. For a deeper dive, check out our article: Is a College Prep School Right for Your Child?
Junior Year
Junior year is the most pivotal year in the college preparation process. This is when your student will begin taking concrete steps toward college, including testing, researching colleges and meeting with guidance counselors to discuss their academic and career goals. It’s a busy and exciting time, but with a bit of planning, it can be an incredibly rewarding year.
In the fall, encourage your student to take the PSAT/NMSQT, as this year’s test can qualify students for National Merit Scholarships and gives them another round of practice before the SAT. Speaking of testing, junior year is also when students typically take the SAT or ACT for the first time. Early in the year, help them create a study plan or consider a SAT/ACT prep course if needed, and encourage them to schedule their test dates well in advance.
As they start exploring colleges, the best way to help them understand the “fit” of each school is through campus visits. Many colleges offer both in-person and virtual tours, so take advantage of both if possible. This will help your student envision themselves on campus and learn more about the programs and student culture each college offers.
Also, help your student identify teachers, mentors or coaches who know them well and can speak to their strengths. While recommendation letters won’t be due until senior year, it’s good to begin thinking about who might write on their behalf.
Key focus areas for junior year success
GPA: Junior year grades weigh heavily in the college admissions process. Encourage your student to prioritize academics and seek help in challenging subjects to maintain or improve their GPA.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Taking AP courses not only boosts academic rigor but also demonstrates to colleges a commitment to challenging coursework. Success on AP exams may even earn college credit.
Extracurricular Activities: This is the time to deepen involvement in activities that align with your student’s passions and leadership potential. Colleges value sustained commitment over a variety of short-lived interests.
College Admissions Process: Junior year is prime time to research colleges, understand application requirements and draft a preliminary college list. Keep track of deadlines and start exploring financial aid options.
English Mastery: Strong writing skills are critical for college essays and admissions applications. Encourage your student to take English coursework seriously and seek feedback on their writing.
Connecting with College Students: Reach out to current students at potential colleges to gain firsthand insights about campus life, academics and the admissions process. This can provide a valuable perspective beyond what tours and brochures offer.
Planning for Recommendation Letters: Build strong relationships with teachers and mentors now, as they will play a pivotal role in writing impactful letters for college applications.
With a balanced focus on academics, activities and planning, junior year can set the stage for your student’s college success.
Diving into the college search
🎓 Tip: Taking campus tours (even virtually) can help your student envision themselves at each school.
Senior Year
Senior year is all about bringing everything together. By this point, your student will have a sense of where they want to apply, what they want to study and how they’ll pay for college. There are many deadlines to meet, so staying organized and focused is essential.
The first big task is finalizing college applications. From essays to transcripts, applications require attention to detail, and a second set of eyes can be helpful. Work with your student to review application materials and make sure they’re submitted on time. Many students find that breaking down the application process into manageable steps makes it feel less overwhelming.
In October, it’s time to complete the FAFSA, which is the first step in applying for federal financial aid. Many colleges also require the CSS Profile, which provides additional information for non-federal aid, so make sure you’re aware of what each school requires. Once acceptance letters and financial aid offers come in, review them together and talk through the costs associated with each college to help your student make an informed decision.
Finally, take time to prepare for the transition to college life. Encourage your student to attend college orientation programs, register for classes and get comfortable with budgeting. College life can feel like a big leap, but by supporting them through these final steps, you’re helping them gain the confidence they need to thrive.
Finalizing the plan like a school counselor
📅 Stay Organized: A simple spreadsheet or checklist can help track deadlines and requirements! For more success tips, check out our blog: Prepare Your Student: Key Questions in College Interviews.
The college readiness journey for high school students
Preparing for college is a marathon, not a sprint. By approaching each year of high school with a clear plan, you’ll empower your student to become an informed, confident and prepared college applicant. With support and encouragement, they’ll be ready to take on the next chapter of their academic journey.
Considering online school for your student?
Starting online school is easier than you might think, whether it’s at the beginning or in the middle of the school year. ASU Prep Digital is a great option to consider if you want to move away from homeschooling or public/private school and explore the flexibility and personalization of an online school program.
At ASU Prep Digital, we have a team dedicated to helping you navigate the enrollment process. We believe that every child and their family should be able to have an education that is unique and easily accessible.
ASU Prep Digital is an accredited online school program serving students in grades K–12, recognized as Arizona’s #1 Online School by Niche.com. Our unique teaching model supports students from the safety of their homes with the latest learning technologies and several layers of personalized instruction and coaching. In addition, our program is a college prep option where online high school and university courses converge, preparing students for college acceptance and encouraging them to start earning credit toward college majors and careers.
Considering online school for your student? Schedule a call with one of our enrollment advisors today and discover how ASU Prep Digital can help your student succeed in online schooling.
We support districts in Arizona while serving students and schools around the world. To learn more about ASU Prep Digital, please visit our website.
High school steps for college readiness FAQs
Why is an academic plan recommended for high school students?
An academic plan is essential for high school students to stay focused and meet their educational and career goals. At ASU Prep, we integrate personalized academic planning into our accredited programs to ensure every student has a clear pathway to success. Our comprehensive support system helps students define their goals, track their progress, and adjust their plan as needed.
What should I look for in high school curriculum?
Look for a challenging curriculum that offers core subjects, AP or honors courses and electives that align with your student’s academic goals. ASU Prep has a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that prepares students for college, careers and life.
How can online high schools support student success?
Strong support services such as academic advising, tutoring and college counseling help ensure that students stay on track and receive the guidance they need. ASU Prep Digital students are equipped with the resources and support they need from the very beginning.
