A Summer Timeline for HS Juniors
It may feel like summer is just around the corner, but for rising seniors, this is not the time to hit cruise control.
Between AP exams, standardized testing, and end-of-year projects, we know junior spring is a whirlwind. But if you’re hoping to submit strong, stress-free college applications this fall, the summer months are your secret weapon. Putting in the effort now means less stress and better results when application season is in full swing.
We’ve created a strategic month-by-month Summer Admissions Timeline to help you plan ahead and stay on track:
May – Before School Ends
Teacher Recommendations: If you haven’t asked your teachers for recommendations yet, do so now. Many teachers write over the summer, when they have more time. Choose teachers who can speak to your academic growth and classroom contributions.
Standardized Testing: Still need to take (or retake) the SAT or ACT? Summer is a great time to prep. October test dates are the last ones that typically count for early deadlines.
June – Build Your List
College List Strategy: Finalize a balanced list of reach, target, and likely schools. We help students craft data-backed college lists that maximize admissions odds, including strategic Early Decision choices. Check out this video here on balancing your school list!
Campus Visits: Visit schools in person or virtually. Demonstrated interest matters, and showing colleges you’ve done your homework can give you a real advantage.
July – Applications Open
Common App Prep: The application officially opens in early August, but you can begin your profile, activity list, and personal statement now.
Essay Writing: Start brainstorming your Common App essay.
August – Get Ahead Before School Starts
Supplemental Essays: As colleges release their supplemental essay prompts, begin outlining and drafting. Many prompts repeat themes...you’ll thank yourself for starting early.
Summer is your secret weapon. The work you do now sets the tone for your senior year and application season.
At CollegeConsulting.us, we don’t just tell you what to do, we guide you through every step. For rising seniors, look at our free resources posted on our blog and youtube channel for all of our best tips and tricks!
Let’s make this your most productive and rewarding summer yet!
Warmly,
Melina Kazanas
P.S. - Have a high-performing high schooler w/ a 3.7 GPA or higher? We'll help get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges...and if we don't get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges, you don't pay us a penny. Seriously. College admissions isn't rocket science...but it is a science. And we've cracked the code...year, after year, after year. You can learn more about our world renowned all-inclusive, start-to-finish college coaching here and to see if your family qualifies for an introductory call.
P.P.S - Our most common question is "When should we start?!" The answer is, if you truly care about giving your high schooler the best chance of college planning success, you should start NOW. 9th grade is not too early to start! 10th grade is certainly not too early to start! And 11th grade is far, far too late! (supporting data here to show just how much of an advantage you give your child by starting the process early).
