Decide on the kind of college experience you want and the characteristics of schools you'd prefer to attend.
Meet with your college counselor to discuss your college research plans, the type of school you might like to attend and the tests you will need to take.
Select a long list (15-20) of colleges that meet your criteria, and research these schools to find out more about them. Start narrowing this list down.
Write up a "student resume," which lists GPA, class rank, advanced classes, any awards or honors, and all involvement in jobs, sports, music, art or other activities or group affiliations.
Take both the SAT and the ACT exams in April, May or June. Also take SAT Subject Tests and Advanced Placement exams if appropriate.
Select from the list below the timeline by grade level:
K-5th Grade
6th-8th Grade
9th-10th Grade
11th Grade Fall
11th Grade Spring
11th Grade Summer
12th Grade August-September
12th Grade October-December
12th Grade January-February
12th Grade March-April
12th Grade May
12th Grade Summer