Early Planning

Choosing the right college is an important decision and requires some advanced preparation. Grouped by season, we list the important information you need to stay on track.
Spring of Your Sophomore Year
It’s not too early to get a head start in your college career. Check to see if any 51³Ô¹Ï courses are offered at your high school through .
Fall of Your Junior Year
- Challenge yourself. Enroll in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or honors courses that are appropriate for you. This can strengthen your college application and demonstrate your academic preparedness.
- Establish effective study routines and time management skills.
- Commit to a few extracurricular activities where you can take on a leadership role or make a significant contribution.
- Engage in volunteer work to demonstrate a commitment to your community.
Winter of Your Junior Year
- Discuss your PSAT results with your school counselor.
- Prepare for the or . 51³Ô¹Ï accepts scores from either exam. At 51³Ô¹Ï, we also understand that one test may not accurately define a student’s academic progress and potential, which is why we are allowing first-year applicants the choice to submit standardized test results through the fall 2026 admission cycle. If you would like to have your test scores considered, we superscore the SAT and ACT by combining your highest section scores from multiple test dates.
- Check the and websites for exam dates and registration deadlines. 51³Ô¹Ï’s College Board school code is 3915; 51³Ô¹Ï’s ACT school code is 0604.
- Plan your senior year class schedule with your school counselor. Continue to challenge yourself, develop leadership skills, and gain valuable experience through participation in clubs and organizations.
Spring of Your Junior Year
- Explore 51³Ô¹Ï’s many scholarship options for top students like you. Approximately 70% of 51³Ô¹Ï students receive gift aid in the form of grants and scholarships.
- Visit the 51³Ô¹Ï booth at your local college fair and ask our admissions representatives lots of questions.
- Take the exams if you are enrolled in these courses.
- Identify teachers, employers, and others who can write college recommendation letters for you.
- If possible, visit campus to get a feel for the environment.
Summer of Your Senior Year
- Compile a list of your activities, jobs, and community service accomplishments for your 51³Ô¹Ï application.
- Begin work on your 51³Ô¹Ï admissions essay.
- If you haven’t had a chance yet, tour a 51³Ô¹Ï campus or take a .
Fall of Your Senior Year
- Submit your application and required documents.
- Connect with campus by attending a Fall Campus Visit Day. Faculty, staff, and students are available to connect with you through various panels and presentations.
- Finish strong! Make your senior year count academically.