Sophomore Year Timeline and Tips

Stay on track with a detailed to-do list for your Sophomore 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

Challenge Yourself Academically

Sophomore year is your chance to challenge yourself academically. If honors or advanced classes are available, consider taking them to push your skills and stand out to colleges.

Excel in your AP classes with these comprehensive suggestions from the “Top AP Class Do’s and Don’ts” Resource. View Guide

Get Involved

Join a club, try out for a sport, or get involved in activities that sound fun. Extracurriculars help you make friends, build skills, and stand out for college.

Look for opportunities to take on leadership roles in clubs or sports, even if it's something small at first. Colleges love to see students who show initiative and growth!

Build Relationships

Build strong connections with teachers by engaging in class and showing interest. They could write you a great recommendation letter later on.

Check out the “Asking a Teacher for a Letter of Recommendation” Resource, a template for asking a teacher for a college or program recommendation. View Template

Career Exploration

Think about what excites you and start exploring careers and college majors that match your interests. You don’t need to have it all figured out!

Consider job shadowing, online courses, or chatting with professionals in fields that interest you.

Join Our Discord Study Community

Our Discord community is your go-to study squad packed with fellow students who are ready to support you in every step of your test prep and college admissions journey.

Join the Acely Discord

Recommended Winter Tasks

Prep for Standardized Tests

The PSAT might seem far off, but a little prep now can make a big difference. Start by taking a practice test to get familiar with the format and question types.

Expand Your Reading

Reading is one of the best ways to boost your PSAT/SAT prep. By reading books, articles, and blogs, you'll improve your vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.

Check out the “SAT Reading List to Build Comprehension” Guide. It's packed with suggestions to help improve your comprehension and vocabulary. View Guide

Volunteer

Getting involved in community service is a great way to make an impact while strengthening your college applications. Look for ways to take initiative—organizing events, leading a project, or mentoring others.

Set Goals

Take a moment to think about what went well last year and where you want to improve. Set goals—big or small—that challenge you academically and personally.

Check out our “Goal Setting 101” Guide. Learn how to set realistic goals, stay motivated, and avoid burnout with this step-by-step guide. View Guide

Recommended Spring Tasks

Plan Next Year’s Classes

Challenge yourself with AP, IB, or honors courses to show colleges you’re ready for the next level and meet with your counselor to map out a plan that fits your goals.

Choose challenging courses that align with your strengths and interests, but remember balance is key.

Take a Practice PSAT

The sophomore PSAT is like a no-pressure practice run. It’s a great way to get familiar with the test format and see where you stand before the junior year PSAT.

Check out the “One-Stop PSAT Shop” Guide. It includes tips and resources for studying and an overview of the test sections. View Guide

Start Developing a Resume

As a sophomore, it’s a great idea to start keeping track of your extracurricular activities, achievements, and any leadership roles you take on.

Check out the “Ultimate Resume Guide for High Schoolers.” A simple step-by-step guide on crafting the perfect resume. View Guide

College Research

Create a list of colleges that interest you and make note of their admission requirements. This will help you stay on track!

Use a spreadsheet like Excel or Google Sheets to track important details like application deadlines, requirements, and programs at each school.

Attend College Events

Visiting campuses or attending college fairs is a great way to get a feel for different schools. You’ll learn more about their programs, campus life, and what they value in applicants.

Remember to take notes during your campus tours or college fairs about what stands out to you—whether it’s the campus vibe, specific programs, or the school’s culture.

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Recommended Summer Tasks

Engage in Summer Work

Summer is the perfect time to dive deeper into your passions. Whether it’s through a summer program, internship, or volunteering, getting hands-on experience in areas you love will help you grow and stand out.

Develop a Skill

Summer is the perfect time to explore something new and exciting. It can be learning to code, picking up a musical instrument, or even diving into art.

Test Prep

It's never too early to start prepping for the SAT or ACT. Try practicing a little bit each week—use online tools like Acely or practice tests to help build your skills and improve your score over time.

Ready for Junior Year?

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

View Junior Year Timeline