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Six things to do this year to help prepare you for college

Students sitting outside on campus building steps

Getting into college is a process, and it starts early in high school. Here are six things you can do your sophomore and junior years to help you along your journey.

1. Use summer to research college. Start thinking about schools to add to your interest list. Ask yourself: Which colleges have my major of interest? Should I attend in-state or out of-state? What type of experience do I want?

2. Meet recruiters in person. Check out college websites to see when recruitment staff are traveling to your area. This is your chance to get to know more about each college and ask questions in person.

3. Schedule the SAT/ACT. Take the SAT and/or ACT early in the fall of your junior year so you can have time to retake the test for a higher score, if necessary. It’s common to take these tests a couple of times.

4. Prepare for the SAT/ACT. SAT/ACT prep classes help you understand the format, questions and timing of the tests, so you can keep calm and feel prepared the day of the test. Be sure to sign up your sophomore year.

5. Connect with your counselor. Email, call or visit your college counselor to ask questions about which classes you should take your final two years in high school, and how to best prep for the college application process.

6. Sign up for college prep classes. These high school classes have a different curriculum, so you not only gain foundational knowledge that you can use in college, but also valuable study skills and perspective.

Have questions about your college journey? We're here to help.

Written by CU Boulder Office of Admissions

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