August To Do List

A new school year means a fresh start—and a great time to take intentional steps toward your future! Whether you’re a 9th-grader just getting started, a junior preparing for college applications, or a senior ready to apply, there are important things you can do this month to stay on track.

Use the August/September Grade-Level College & Career Checklist below to find recommended tasks, helpful resources, and tips tailored to your grade level. From building strong academic habits and exploring careers to preparing for college applications, testing, financial aid, and scholarships, small steps now can make a big difference later.

📌 Scroll to your grade level below and get started!

9th-graders

• College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.

• Activity Log: Get involved in a couple of clubs, sports or other extracurricular activities either at your school or in your local community. Keep track of your engagement over time on this simple spreadsheet.

• How do I learn best? Take this quick quiz, and get study tips based on your learning style.

• Challenge yourself academically: Take advantage of the course offerings, and don’t be afraid to ask about higher-level classes if you aren’t feeling challenged.

• How to study effectively: Improve your study skills and build new habits with this low-cost video course from Udemy.

• Be careful with your social media use: Any words or pictures you post are part of your permanent online record. If it’s something you wouldn’t want your grandparent to see, maybe don’t post it.

10th-graders

• College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.

• Study schedule: If you don’t have a plan in place, now is a great time to create one. Use a paper or online tool like The Shovel Study Planner to stay organized and help manage your time.

• Sign up for the PSAT and/or PreACT if your school is offering them this year. These practice tests are a great way to get experience with the content and timing of standardized exams.

• Start exploring possible careers: There are so many possibilities out there. What sounds interesting to you? Start with your interests and see where your research takes you.

11th-graders

• College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.

• The Shovel Study Planner: Get ready for a very busy fall with this simple, low-cost app for building an effective study plan and developing strong study skills.

• Corsava: Check out this awesome resource that helps you figure out what you want (and don’t want) from your college experience.

• PSAT: Sign up to take the exam this fall, even if you took the test as a sophomore. Strong test scores as a junior may qualify you for academic honors, including National Merit as well as programs and recruitment for Black, Latinx, Indigenous, rural, first-generation and low-income students.

• Compass Guide to Admissions Testing: Start mapping out a standardized testing plan with the goal of taking the SAT or ACT at least once before the end of the school year.

• Connect with college admission reps: Sign up for a few sessions with college representatives when they visit your high school this fall. Also check their websites for information on virtual information sessions and local events.

12th-graders

This is a critical time for seniors. By this point, you should (we hope) have a close-to-final college list and be working on your college applications.

• Letters of recommendation: This is a good time to check in with your recommenders to make sure they know your deadlines. And if you haven't already, read this guide and then ask your teacher(s) if they’ll write a letter on your behalf.

• College applications are live: Start familiarizing yourself with the information you need to gather. Some of the most popular applications include The Common Application, Coalition Application, University of California, Cal State University, SUNY, and/or UCAS.

• How to Write a College Essay: Wondering how to get started on your college essays? This step-by-step guide and this video will walk you through the process.

• Do you identify as undocumented or a member of the LGBTQ+ community? If you’re wondering how much to disclose in your personal statement, these guides might help you map out your content.

• How to Decide Whether to Apply Early Decision or Early Action: Get answers to the most common questions and make sure you understand the limitations and the financial implications. ED/EA deadlines fall as early as October 15th.

• FAFSA + CSS PROFILE: These two forms are critical to your financial aid process. All schools require the FAFSA; the CSS PROFILE is only required by some schools and scholarships. Submission windows open on October 1st.

• EOP Application Guide: Educational Opportunity Programs offer extra resources and support to help under-resourced students succeed in college. If you’re applying to Cal State Universities, this guide is a must-read.

• Connect with college admission reps, either at your school, online or in your community. These sessions are important opportunities to let colleges know you’re considering attending their institution, which, in some cases, can help your chances.

• QuestBridge and Posse Foundation: See if you qualify for these great opportunities to win a full ride to college.

• Create a spreadsheet of requirements and deadlines: Keep track of application deadlines, number of required recommendation letters, scholarship deadlines, portfolio requirements, etc., all in one organized spot.