Junior Year Timeline for College Admissions
Our guide to keep you and your teen organized as they begin preparations for college.
Mid-October
Take PSAT
The PSAT/NMSQT or Preliminary SAT is a practice version of the SAT exam and also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Content on the PSAT/NMSQT is very similar to the SAT, with reading, math, and writing and language sections.
You can only take the PSAT once per year, and many students take the test in both 10th and 11th grade. Unfortunately, not all schools administer the PSAT testing during the school day. If your teen’s high school does not offer the PSAT, they may take the test at another nearby school that is offering it. Talk to a school counselor to inquire about test dates and procedures.
For more information about the PSAT/NMSQT, visit the CollegeBoard site., which includes information like free study resources from Khan Academy.
Early December
SAT/ACT Test Prep
Khan Academy offers free a personalized and interactive SAT Study Prep program.
The ACT offers a free study guide and practice test. For students who qualify for testing fee waivers, the ACT offers free access to The Official ACT® Self-Paced Course, Free additional score reports, and request of a Waiver or Deferral of College Admission Applications Fee
Early December
January
Sign Up for SAT and/or ACT
While some institutions have begun to roll out testing optional admissions standards, most still require either an SAT or ACT score. Be sure to view admissions requirements for the schools you plan to apply. Keep in mind that for both SAT and ACT, the registration deadline is typically 30 days prior to the testing date.
For those who qualify, both testing options have fee waivers available.
SAT Registration opens a new window
View the SAT Fee Waiver opens a new window
ACT Registration opens a new window
View the ACT Fee Waiver opens a new window. In addition to the testing fee waiver, ACT also offers the following benefits to qualifying students: Free access to The Official ACT® Self-Paced Course, Free additional score reports, and request of a Waiver or Deferral of College Admission Applications Fee
Spring Break
Great time to visit college campuses
Spring Break
March
SAT Offered
April
ACT Offered
ACT Registration opens a new window
View the ACT Fee Waiver opens a new window. In addition to the testing fee waiver, ACT also offers the following benefits to qualifying students: Free access to The Official ACT® Self-Paced Course, Free additional score reports, and request of a Waiver or Deferral of College Admission Applications Fee
April
May
SAT Offered
June
SAT & ACT Offered
June
Summer
College Admissions Readiness
- Visit colleges
- Meet with college counselors
- Begin work on CommonApp essay and personal statement
- Prep for fall SAT & ACT, if needed.
More College Admissions Resources from FEEA
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