Tips for Preparing for College While Still in High School

It’s important to have fun while you’re in high school, spending time with friends and making the most out of those years. However, it’s not all about fun – you also need to make sure that you’re preparing for college and the career you pursue later in life. Preparing for college success is as simple as following these tips during your high school years.

Tip #1 – Take the Right Courses

Having the right high school courses and preparing for your SATs are two of the best things you can do to make sure you get accepted into a great college. Even though college seems far away, you need to begin taking courses that will help you get accepted into and succeed in college.

Make use of your school guidance counselor. They can help you determine what course will set you on the right course for your future plans.

Prepare for Entrance Exams
It’s also important to begin preparing for your SATs as early as possible. Your SAT score is a big factor when getting into the college you want. Start preparing as a freshman and find ways to improve your results so you end up with a great score.

Tip #2 – Take on Leadership

Extracurricular activities look great when you’re applying to colleges, especially if you have also taken on leadership roles. It’s not enough to just be involved in activities. College admission boards want to see that you’re committed to working hard in extracurricular activities. Look for ways that you can take on leadership roles.

Tip #3 – Stop Cramming for Exams

If you’re cramming for exams in high school, it’s a bad habit that will follow you into college. Cramming often results in bad grades, which means you’ll have a tougher time getting into the college you want. Cramming also can make you inattentive in class and tired, taking a toll on your health. Develop good study habits now. They’ll pay off in high school and in college.

Tip #4 – Think About How You’ll Pay for College

If your parents are going to help you pay for college, that’s great, but college is expensive. Many of the best scholarship programs start early and require a significant amount of preparation. You need to start thinking about scholarships and grants well before your senior year if you want the best shot at getting the money you need for college.

Tip #5 – Consider Tutoring or Coaching

To make sure you’re getting the best grades possible in high school, considering tutoring or coaching services from a brain-based, individualized center, such as Miracle Math. The grades you get now will affect where you get into college, so if you want to give your grades a boost, tutoring can help.