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Explore and Prepare for College

College is right around the corner.

But no sweat, we’re here to help. Explore our college prep guides and tips below.

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Students exploring virtual reality at the CU Boulder startup hub.

3 Things to Do This Year to Prepare for College

Getting into college is a process, and it starts early in high school. Here are three things you can do this year to help you along your journey.  

  • Sophomore Year
  • Junior Year
  • Senior Year
  • Summer: Sign up for a college prep class or two to take this year. These classes can help prepare you for the college experience.
  • Winter: What you do this year affects where you can apply to college. Plan ahead by meeting with your school’s college counselor.
  • Spring: Join a club or organization at school or in your community to explore your interests. You'll be able to expand your experience and learn about your interests, helping you consider what you may want to join or study in college.
  • Fall: Research colleges now and 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 kind of experience do I want?
  • Winter: Check out college websites to learn all the ways you can connect and learn more about them through virtual and in-person visit programs.
  • Spring: Use this time to start writing your college essay. They take time and thought, so starting early is a no-brainer. 
  • Fall: It’s time to apply! Make sure you have everything in order, and we recommend you plan out extra time before the deadline.
  • Spring: Visit programs are happening, and we’re excited to meet you. Visit our campus or take our virtual tour.
  • Summer: Enjoy this stretch of time with friends and family. Your college journey is about to start!

A teacher working with students at a chalkboard.

6 Tips to Boost Your High School Academics

Discover Your Learning Style

We all learn differently—what works for you? Taking notes, listening to music, group study sessions?

Nail the Essay

Essays are a central part of getting into college. Ask your teachers how to properly craft essays now.

Logical or Intuitive?

Understand how you process. Do you think creatively, logically or both? This can help you choose a field of study.

The Art of Asking

Universities are all about inquiry and discovery. Get comfortable asking questions and feeding your curiosity.

Take Note

Literally and figuratively. Written notes become study guides for exams, and active listening is an effective way to learn.

Create a Study Schedule

Learn how to set aside time each week to keep up with your studies. It’ll prep you for college.

Create Your Personal Journey

College is a journey. And although academics play a large role in the college experience, clubs, connections and campus life contribute to the well-rounded journey you'll create. At CU Boulder, we've got something for everyone.

The Traveler

Study abroad! We offer 400+ programs in 70+ countries. 

The Volunteer

Give back with one of 300+ campus organizations that work with the Volunteer Resource Center. 

The Naturalist

The Rockies are in our backyard. Hike, bike, climb—get out and explore. 

The Entrepreneur

Meet local entrepreneurs through annual programs, challenges and events in the community. 

The Researcher

As a Tier 1 research university, we have 50+ years of collaboration with federal research labs in Colorado.

The Creative

Fuse art and technology in our one-of-a-kind Technology, Arts & Media program. 

Explore our majors & customized education

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