GRADE 10
Although this timeline has many elements that can be considered by all students, it has been created with North American and UK admission timelines in mind and so if students are considering applying to universities in other continents they will need to do their research, plan for and adjust their timeline accordingly. This timeline is intended for use by those students who are self-starters and who may want to take responsibility for the admissions process by themselves and it should not take the place of the school-tailored timelines and schedules presented to them by their school and independent counselors.
In Grade 10 (sophomores) students can explore colleges without the stress of a deadline. It is recommended that students:
- Be actively involved in key areas of engagement: Academics, Writing, Supporting Others, Personal Development, In-depth Learning and Connecting with Colleges.
- Work hard and be actively engaged in all learning activities in the classroom. Keeping grades up is important as this year’s grades will be of interest to many college admissions officers.
- Participating in life outside the classroom both at school and in the community.
- Students should take on a leadership role if possible to develop their skills and consider trying new activities that push their boundaries.
- Update their activity log/resume.
- Attend local or virtual college fairs to start exploring possibilities around the globe and explore college websites in greater depth.
- Get to know the school counselor and discuss course selection for Grade 11 and 12.
- Read about careers and college majors to better plan out their high school classes by utilizing college search platforms such as College Board’s Big Future.
- If considering the US as a college destination, consider taking a practice ACT and SAT to determine which test may be better for them, then set up a testing timeline.
- Continue exploring interests and careers through part-time work, internships, volunteer experience, travel, experiential programs, job shadowing, and mentorships.
- Visit college campuses during their vacations keeping notes on what is liked and what is disliked about each college.
- Preview to Grade 11 regarding course offerings, choices, pathways, and selection.
- Participate in career exploration activities, relevant workshops, seminars and small group activities outside class time.
- Consider sitting for an AP exam in May as a way of extending subject knowledge and developing a deeper understanding of academic areas of interest
- Continue researching how to pay for a college education by exploring the world of possibilities that can meet every budget.
AUGUST
Students should:
- Check courses, school graduation requirements, GPA and 3-year plan.
- Make sure they are on the right track towards the type of college they want to attend, particularly if they are aiming for a selective college.
SEPTEMBER
Students should:
- Understand external exams; who takes them and why? PSAT, SAT and SAT subject tests, ACT etc.
- Register for the PSAT regardless of whether they are heading to the USA for future studies. This test is a great indicator of future school achievements and is valuable for the college search process.
OCTOBER
Students should:
- Gain an understanding of the College Admissions processes around the globe.
- Start exploring the many websites that may be of use in the admissions journey such as College Board.com, UCAS.com as well as other very useful search tools.
NOVEMBER
Students should:
- Explore college majors and vocational areas of interest.
DECEMBER
Students should:
- Receive results PSAT and read score report and work with teachers or support staff to learn from problems missed.
- Utilise Khan Academy for admissions test prep.
MARCH
Students should:
- Understand the courses available for Grades 11 and 12.
- Take a practice ACT and SAT to determine which test may be better for them, then set up a testing timeline.
APRIL
Students should:
- Register for May/June SATs and/ or ACT if considering US colleges.
- Consider their transition to Senior school (Grade 11 and 12).
MAY
Students should:
- Finalise plans for the summer.
- Explore online learning opportunities and enrichment programs to enhance and develop skills and knowledge.
- Plan their summer reading list to continue expanding their vocabulary and perspectives on the world.
- Continue exploring interests during the summer and this could be through a job, internship, volunteer experience, or self-designed project.
