Tests, campus visits part of preparation

By Misti Huedepohl
Iowa.com

High school students are encouraged to start thinking about college in their freshman year by selecting the appropriate coursework. Investigate classes that offer college credit like Advanced Placement (AP) classes and dual enrollment courses.

Sophomores can prepare for upcoming SAT and ACT college entrance exams by taking the PSAT and PLAN tests. Results from these tests come with helpful guides on what subject areas students can brush up on to help them be more successful when they take the SAT and ACT exams their junior and senior years.

By junior year, students should be on track to graduate and they, along with their parents, begin the college countdown, broaching a long list of things to do in preparation for the next step in the student’s academic life.

During the latter part of junior year, parents and students should begin researching colleges and visiting campuses. Students can also obtain information from college recruiters who visit their high schools.

Begin narrowing down your list of college possibilities senior year and begin applying to your top choices. Note that some early admission requirements have an application due date of Nov. 1.

It’s important to note the admission requirements, transcripts, admission applications fees, test scores, letters of recommendation, essays and financial aid applications required by each college.  Also verify that the school guidance office sends transcripts and test scores to the colleges you’ve selected. ACT or SAT tests can be retaken senior year, however check individual college policies for receiving updated scores.

After January, parents can help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for grants and loans to help cover college costs. Also check the high school guidance office for information and application forms for local scholarships.

Learn more:

• Iowa College Access Network
• College Navigator