Junior Year Timeline and Tips

Stay on track with a detailed to-do list for your Junior Year. Each task is designed to keep you organized and prepared for what’s ahead. Expand the blocks to uncover expert tips, helpful resources, and step-by-step guidance to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Recommended Fall Tasks

Meet with Your Counselor

Take time to connect with your school counselor to make sure you’re on track for graduation. This is also a great opportunity to discuss your college and career goals.

Before meeting, create a list of questions or topics you’d like to discuss, such as potential college majors, career paths, or extracurricular opportunities that align with your interests.

Research Colleges

Now’s the time to dream big and explore your options. Think about what matters most to you in a school and attend college fairs, virtual tours, or info sessions to learn more.

Check out the “How to Build Your College List” Guide to learn how to build a list of strong colleges. View Guide

Prepare for Standardized Tests

Register for the PSAT—it’s great practice for the SAT and can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Begin studying for the SAT or ACT.

Looking for effective SAT prep? Check out the “Most Effective SAT Prep Resources” Guide for top tools and strategies. View Guide

Engage in Extracurriculars

Dive into activities you're passionate about! Whether it’s a club, sport, or volunteering, getting involved shows colleges you’re committed. Aim to take on leadership roles.

Focus on quality over quantity. It’s better to be deeply involved in a few activities you care about than to spread yourself too thin. Leadership and dedication matter most!

Create a Study Plan

Enter your current score and goal score and Acely will create a plan that adapts to you. Get guidance on how much to practice each section of the exam and see areas where you could make up the most points.

Get Started for Free

Recommended Winter Tasks

Review Your Academic Performance

Junior year is crunch time, and your grades matter more than ever. Take a moment to reflect on how you’re doing in your classes. If you’re struggling, reach out for help from teachers, classmates, or a tutor.

Junior year is a struggle with balancing academics, extracurriculars, and planning for college. Here are some tips to staying organized. View Guide

Plan for Standardized Tests

If you haven’t already, start preparing for the SAT or ACT and register to take your first test in the spring or summer. Don’t forget about your AP exams—they’re a great way to show colleges you can handle challenging coursework.

Set small, achievable goals for test prep, like completing a few practice questions each day. Consistency is key to building confidence and improving scores.

Plan Campus Visits

School breaks are the perfect time to start exploring colleges that interest you. Visiting campuses gives you a firsthand feel for what life would be like there. Take a tour, sit in on an info session, or even chat with current students.

Make the most of your college visits with our guide. Learn how to plan effectively, ask the right questions, and gain valuable insights to find your best-fit school. View Guide

Start Researching scholarships

Scholarships can help make your college dreams a reality, so it’s time to start researching. Look for scholarships you’re eligible for based on your achievements, background, or interests.

Create a spreadsheet to keep track of scholarship opportunities, deadlines, and requirements - it’ll save you from last-minute stress.

Recommended Spring Tasks

Take Standardized Tests

Junior year is the perfect time to take the SAT or ACT. It’s okay if you don’t get your dream score on the first try—this is your opportunity to practice and plan for retakes in the summer if needed. Also, don’t forget about AP exams.

Develop Your Resume

Start building your resume now! Organize all your extracurricular activities, work experience, leadership roles, and any awards or achievements. Having everything listed out will make it easier when you need to complete college applications.

Learn how to effectively describe your extracurricular activities for the Common App. Discover tips for showcasing your leadership, skills, and dedication to make your profile stand out. View Guide

Prepare for Applications

Start prepping your college applications! Brainstorm essay ideas, draft responses to Common App prompts, and get feedback. Ask teachers or mentors who know you well for recommendation letters, and provide your resume to highlight your achievements.

Check out these resources for crushing those college essays. View Video

Plan Your Summer

Summer is your chance to shine! Use this time to explore exciting opportunities like summer programs, internships, or volunteer work that match your interests. It’s also a great time to visit colleges or prep for retaking the SAT/ACT.

Discover ten incredible internships designed specifically for high school students. Explore opportunities to gain hands-on experience, build your resume, and prepare for your future. View Guide

Attend an Acely Event

Level up your SAT® and ACT® prep with Acely’s live events. From cram sessions to study halls, we offer everything you’ll need to make sure you’re ready for test day.

Explore Events

Recommended Summer Tasks

Finalize Your College List

If you haven’t already, visit the campuses of colleges that spark your interest. As you refine your list, make sure you’ve got a good mix of reach, match, and safety schools.

Use our guide to help you narrow down your college list by removing schools that no longer align with your goals. View Guide

Work on Applications

Now’s the time to dive into your college applications. Start drafting your personal statement and any supplemental essays. Be sure to create a calendar with all the deadlines for each school.

Get tips and guidance on crafting your personal statement essay. Learn how to effectively highlight your strengths, experiences, and goals to make your application stand out. View Guide

Retake Standardized Tests (If Necessary)

If you feel like your SAT or ACT scores don't reflect your true potential, you can always retake the test to improve your scores. A higher score can make a difference.

Learn everything you need to know about retaking the SAT with this guide. Discover when and how to improve your score, and make your next attempt even more successful. View Guide

Stay Organized

Staying organized is crucial. Keep track of important dates like application, test, and scholarship deadlines by using a planner or digital calendar. It helps reduce stress and keeps you on track.

Ready for Senior Year?

With Junior Year behind you, it’s time to tackle your Senior Year to-do list—or get a sneak peek at what’s coming next.

View Senior Year Timeline