College planning and searching can feel overwhelming—there’s just so much to do! You’ve got to research schools, secure recommendation letters, build your high school resume, figure out financial aid, and ace your tests—all while keeping your grades up.
That’s a lot. But if you start as a junior and break the process into smaller steps, it becomes way more manageable. To help, we’ve put together a digital college planner checklist that outlines the key steps in your journey. Stick to this timeline, and you’ll stay on track with applications while balancing everything else.
But first, let’s walk through the general college planning and application process.
College Planning During Your Junior Year
You’ve probably heard that junior year is one of the most important years for college admissions. That’s because colleges look at your entire high school record, and junior year is the last full year they’ll see.
So, make the most of it! Keep your grades strong, stay involved in extracurriculars, and start thinking about your college preferences. And while you’re at it—stay organized.
We spoke with Garrick Gibson, co-founder of HBCU Lifestyle (the go-to resource for Black college experiences, rankings, alumni advice, and more). He emphasized how crucial organization is during junior year:
“Use cloud-based apps to store important docs,” he said. “Create one folder for info colleges send you and another for what you need to send them—essays, test scores, etc.”
Keep this advice in mind as you review the steps below. You’ll be in great shape for senior year and application season! (Note: Not all steps have to happen during junior year—some can wait until summer or early senior year.)
1. Research Colleges
Junior year is the perfect time to start exploring schools that match your interests and goals. Consider factors like location, size, academic programs, cost, reputation, and extracurriculars. Make a priority list to guide your search.
A great place to start? Appily’s college database, where you can compare tuition, student reviews, programs, acceptance odds, and more.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, follow schools on social media and take virtual tours to get a feel for their campus vibe.
2. Think About a Possible Major
Start reflecting on what you enjoy and what subjects excite you. Look for patterns—what feels meaningful? Then explore how those interests connect to careers (checking salary, job outlook, and required education).
You can even try a college class to test-drive a subject before committing. Don’t stress—most schools don’t require you to declare a major until sophomore year, so you’ve got time.
3. Take the PSAT
Even if some schools don’t require the SAT/ACT, taking the PSAT is still smart—especially if you’re aiming for selective colleges.
Your PSAT score predicts how you’ll do on the SAT/ACT, shows how you stack up against peers, and highlights areas to improve before senior year.
But here’s the big perk: It qualifies you for the National Merit Scholarship Program, where top scorers can win scholarships. As Janice Walker (Independent Education Consultant) explains:
*”Scores are ranked by state (not nationally), so your odds are better. You only need a 1400/1520 (92%) to qualify. Plus, being a National Merit Finalist/Semifinalist can unlock extra merit scholarships from colleges.”*
4. Build a Relationship With Your Counselor
Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss college plans and coursework. Building a relationship now pays off later—they’ll write your recommendation letter, and the better they know you, the stronger it’ll be.
They can also hook you up with resources like fly-in programs, fee waivers, and scholarships.
5. Keep Grades Up & Get Involved
While planning for the future, don’t forget to excel today. Admissions officers look for students who stand out academically and as leaders.
Moses Murphy (UVM Admissions Director) advises:
“Take the most challenging courses you can handle, and pursue leadership roles in extracurriculars.”
If you’re spread too thin, Jay Jacobs (UVM VP for Enrollment) suggests:
*”Focus on 2-3 passions. Excel in those, and leadership opportunities will follow—making you a stronger applicant.”*
6. Learn the Application Timeline
Map out deadlines for rolling admission, early decision, early action, and regular decision. Stagger applications so you’re not overwhelmed later. Planning now = less stress senior year.
7. Review the Common App & Gather Materials
Skim the Common App and brainstorm essay topics. Start collecting materials like transcripts, test scores, resumes, and recommendation letters. (You’ll dive deeper into this senior year, but early prep helps!)
8. Start Financial Aid Research
Cost matters! As a senior, you’ll complete the FAFSA, but juniors can use the FAFSA aid estimator to gauge eligibility. Also, start saving scholarships/grants to apply for later.
Talk to your family about costs—they’ll need to share tax docs for FAFSA. They might also have employer tuition benefits or GI Bill options.
Appily’s Free Digital College Planner Checklist
Now that you know the basics, we’ve made it even easier with our free, interactive checklist. It guides you through junior year and beyond—click below to start planning!
Categories:
- Academics & College Readiness