Confession: I am so completely overwhelmed and stressed out about the college prep process for my Junior. I've already missed a few deadlines. I had SO much anxiety when I applied for my own college as a teen that I shut down, and did not even apply for a single scholarship. Even though I had great grades! Arrrrggghhh! I want to go back in time and give teen Penny a stern talking to. And a hug.⁠

Listen in to get a rundown of what tasks need to be done in which year, starting in 9th grade. If your teen is older than that and you haven't done anything--don't panic. It's okay. We've got you covered. Take a deep breath. Eat some chocolate. And tune in to hear what we've learned.⁠

• Middle school - Grade 10
  • Get to know yourself - explore your options
  • Start saving!
  • Develop strong study and time management habits
  • Become involved
• Junior Year
  • Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their requirements
  • Create a master list or calendar with your checklist and the deadlines
  • Go to college fairs
  • Make an account with Common App
  • Register for the ACT/SAT
  • Start looking for scholarships
• Senior Year
  • Update your master list or calendar
  • Complete scholarship applications
  • Stay involved, seek leadership roles if possible
  • Re-take ACT/SAT if needed
  • Apply to your chosen colleges
  • Ask counselors and teachers to submit the required documents (transcripts, letters of requirement)
  • Visit college campuses
  • Notify the school of your commitment and submit any  required financial deposit

Resources:

• www.my529.org
• www.studentaid.gov
• Dawn Rosenberg McKay, Should I Go to College, www.thebalancecareers.com/should-you-go-to-college-525564
• My Future, https://myfuture.com/
• College Application Timeline: 12th Grade, https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/get-in/applying-101/timeline-12-grade