When Should You Start Preparing for College? (Hint: It's Earlier Than You Think)

Most students start preparing for college too late. Learn why it’s best to begin college prep as early as 9th grade and how Persimmon Admissions can help you plan each step.

When Do Most Students Start College Prep?

Many school counselors recommend students begin preparing for college at the end of their junior year, when it's time to ask teachers for letters of recommendation.

However, the ideal time to prepare for college starts much earlier. Ideally, you should be preparing for college as early as ninth grade!

Why Start Preparing for College in 9th Grade?

Starting your college preparation early may seem unnecessary, but there are a few reasons we at Persimmon Admissions recommend this to our students:

1. You can plan meaningful activities

   
   

   Beginning early allows you to map out activities you genuinely enjoy, and it also offers the opportunity to make them stand out to admissions officers. Learn how our tutors can help you develop a customized extracurricular plan that stands out.

   
   

2. You can maximize your chances of admission and scholarships

   
   

   It gives you the potential to maximize your chances of acceptance at your dream school, including schools with very selective scholarships

3. You'll stay ahead of the competition

The truth is, your competition is already preparing early. Well before junior year rolls around, they're attending summer programs, building research experience, and starting test prep. By starting early, you'll match or surpass their readiness and avoid trying to catch up later.

4. You'll avoid last-minute stress

Instead of cramming for the SAT or rushing essays senior year, you'll have time to retake tests, revise essays, and build a balanced application, without panicking. (But, hey, if you're a senior and struggling, reach out! We can help.)

College Preparation Timeline by Grade

What would I even do as a freshman?

Here's what college prep can look like if you start early:

Freshman Year (9th Grade):

1. Make a four-year plan

   Choose classes that challenge you but still allow balance. Look ahead to ensure you'll meet the prerequisites for AP, IB, and honors courses so there's no surprises later on.

2. Find your interests

   Whether it's art, chess, or volunteering, develop one or two activities that will bring you satisfaction, allow you to grow over time, and stand out to admissions officers.

   
   

3. Build strong study habits

   Focus on doing well academically. If you're struggling, seek help early and learn strategies to improve.

   
   

Starting early doesn't mean cramming for applications. It's about giving yourself a solid foundation to do what you love!

Sophomore year (10th Grade):

1. Deepen your extracurricular activities

   Sophomore year is the best time to deepen your extracurriculars before the stress of junior year comes around. See what you can do to benefit your community through your area of interest.

2. Start documenting your achievements

   Keep a simple list of your activities, awards, and leadership roles. This "brag sheet" will be invaluable later when you write your essays or fill out your Common App.

Pro Tip:

A resume is an invaluable aspect of any college application and is something you can use while in college, too. Consider booking with an expert to make sure yours stands out.

3. Build relationships with teachers

   Engage with your teachers early by participating in class and asking thoughtful questions. Building authentic relationships now makes it easier to request strong letters of recommendation next year.

4. Begin studying for standardized tests

   Although many schools are now test-optional, we at Persimmon Admissions strongly recommend our students take standardized tests to stand out to their colleges. Set a target score and begin light studying so it's easier later on.

   
   

5. Start making a list of potential colleges and majors

   Consider asking yourself: What subjects do I enjoy? What problems interest me? Begin keeping a list of schools that interest you.

Junior Year (11th Grade):

1. Take standardized tests early

   Complete the SAT, ACT, and other required exams before senior year so you can focus later on essays and applications. This also gives you time to retake them if you don't get the score you aimed for.

2. Explore colleges

   If possible, go on college visits to get a feel for the campus. Don't be afraid to ask questions! If visiting is out of reach, watch virtual tours or YouTube videos and explore colleges' official websites.

3. Build relationships with teachers

   Take the time to develop good relationships with your teachers! They can be a great source of guidance and mentorship, and you will need two to three to write meaningful letters of recommendation for you. A strong recommendation letter can make or break your application - don't skip this step!

   
   

4. Plan a productive summer

   Before the school year ends, ask your teachers for recommendations. Then, use your summer to start essays and finalize your college lists (including where you will be applying Early Action/Early Decision).

Junior Summer:

1. Start your essays!

   Now's the time to start writing! The most important one is your Personal Statement, as well as any early action schools you are applying to. Work with a counselor to ensure you've picked the strongest topic and to make your entire application as strong as possible. Check out our services here.

   
   

2. Plan early applications

   If you're applying Early Action or Early Decision, the deadline will approach quickly once senior year starts. Make sure you're aware of everything you'll need beforehand.

Senior Year (12th Grade):

You're almost done! Here's an overview of what senior year will look like if you've prepared:

1. Finish your essays early

   Make sure your Personal Statement, Early Decision, and Early Action essays are all finished before the deadline, which is generally November 1st.

2. Track deadlines and materials

Create a spreadsheet for each college’s deadlines, test score submissions, and financial aid forms. Double-check that your transcripts and recommendations have been sent.

3. Submit financial aid applications early

   FAFSA and CSS Profile deadlines vary, and missing them can affect your financial aid package. Complete them as soon as possible.

4. Keep your grades up

   Colleges want to see that you are maintaining academic excellence even into senior year, so don't slack, especially that first semester!

5. Regular decision essays

   Continue working on your regular decision essays. Regular decision deadlines are generally January 1st, although some schools have slightly later deadlines.

   
   

6. Prepare for interviews

   Some colleges conduct alumni or virtual interviews in February and March, and it's important to prepare accordingly. Make sure to conduct several mock interviews with someone you trust to ease your nerves and polish your answers. Our tutors at Persimmon Admissions are well-equipped to help you prepare for alumni, Vericant, and Initialview interviews, so don't hesitate to reach out!

After You Submit

Keep your grades strong and continue your activities. Once decisions arrive, compare offers carefully, including scholarships and aid. Send thank-you notes to your teachers and counselors, and celebrate how far you’ve come!

If You're Starting Late

If you're no longer a freshman, don't panic! We have guides for how to prepare for college applications starting in your sophomore, junior, and even senior years.

Pro Tip:

Our Essay Editing Service helps students refine their writing and elevate their applications. Check out our essay coaching here.