For high school juniors, the PSAT is more than just a practice test—it’s the starting point for the college admissions journey. While the PSAT doesn’t directly affect college admissions, it opens the door to scholarships, helps students gauge their academic standing, and gives them a head start on preparing for the SAT.
But what happens after the PSAT? How should students approach the months ahead as they gear up for senior year and college applications? Most students don’t know what their next steps should be and are looking to parents to guide them along the path to college. No pressure, parents. Even if you are unsure what the best next step is, this guide is here to help.
This month-by-month blueprint to help guide your high school junior’s college planning journey, including essential steps after the PSAT. Whether your child aced the test or feels they could improve, this guide will ensure they’re on track for college success.
October – Reflect, Review, and Set Goals
PSAT Prep Tip: Review the PSAT results carefully
When the PSAT results come in (typically in December), it’s time to reflect on the performance. Analyze the scores to identify strengths and areas for improvement. This will help guide future SAT prep and college planning.
- Assess performance: What areas did your junior excel in, and where do they need more focus? Use these insights to create a customized SAT prep plan.
- Set SAT goals: Based on PSAT results, set a target score for the SAT. It’s important to be realistic but also ambitious—this will serve as motivation for the months ahead.
- Explore scholarships: The PSAT qualifies students for the National Merit Scholarship program. If your child scored highly, look into these opportunities, as well as other merit-based scholarships.
November – Build an SAT Prep Plan
PSAT Prep Tip: Start building a study schedule based on PSAT results
With PSAT scores in hand, your junior can now create a personalized SAT prep plan. Encourage them to tackle their weaker areas while reinforcing their strengths.
- Choose SAT prep resources: Whether they opt for SAT prep classes, online platforms, or self-study, it’s essential to select materials that align with their learning style.
- Create a study schedule: Consistency is key. Set a weekly study routine that balances SAT prep with schoolwork and extracurriculars. Aiming for 2–3 hours a week of focused study time is a good start.
- Register for an SAT test date: Select a test date that aligns with your study plan. Many juniors take the SAT in the spring (March or May) to allow time for retakes in the fall of senior year if needed.
December – Research Colleges and Narrow Down Interests
PSAT Prep Tip: Use college research to stay motivated
Now that SAT prep is underway, it’s time to begin researching colleges. Understanding what different schools offer and their average SAT scores can help keep your junior motivated during their test prep.
- Explore college options: Start with a broad list of schools that fit your child’s interests, academic profile, and career goals. Look into factors like size, location, campus culture, and available programs.
- Check admissions criteria: Research each school’s SAT requirements, including average scores for admitted students. This will give your junior a concrete goal to work towards.
- Identify academic interests: Encourage your child to explore potential majors and careers. This can help narrow down college choices and guide course selection for senior year.
January – Take Advantage of Winter Break
PSAT Prep Tip: Dedicate time to practice over the break
Winter break offers the perfect opportunity for focused SAT prep without the distractions of regular schoolwork.
- Full-length practice test: Schedule a practice SAT under timed conditions to simulate the real test day experience. This will help your junior get comfortable with the format and pacing.
- Review mistakes: Go over any errors on the practice test. Understanding why they missed certain questions is crucial for improvement.
- Balance study and relaxation: While it’s important to keep the momentum going, make sure your junior also has time to recharge during the break.
February – Strengthen Extracurriculars and Build Leadership Skills
PSAT Prep Tip: Combine academic prep with extracurricular development
Colleges look for well-rounded students, so this month should focus on strengthening extracurriculars and building leadership experience.
- Take on leadership roles: Whether it’s becoming a club officer, volunteering, or starting a new project, encourage your junior to take initiative in activities they’re passionate about.
- Document achievements: Help them keep track of accomplishments, awards, and leadership roles. This will be helpful for college applications and interviews.
- Continue SAT prep: Stay on track with the study schedule, making adjustments as needed to improve performance.
March – Register for Spring SAT and Start Test Prep Intensely
PSAT Prep Tip: Ramp up study efforts
By now, your junior should have a solid foundation from their SAT prep. This month is the time to intensify their efforts leading up to the spring test date.
- Take another practice test: Assess progress by taking another full-length SAT practice test. Use the results to refine study strategies.
- Focus on weak areas: If certain sections of the test are still proving difficult, allocate more study time to those subjects.
- Register for the SAT: Make sure your junior is signed up for their preferred spring test date (March, May, or June).
April – Plan for College Visits
PSAT Prep Tip: Break up test prep with hands-on college research
April is an ideal time to visit potential colleges in person. This gives students a firsthand look at the campuses they’ve been researching and helps narrow down their choices.
- Schedule visits: Try to visit a mix of schools, including reach, match, and safety options. Encourage your junior to ask questions and meet with admissions counselors while on campus.
- Reflect on preferences: After each visit, discuss what they liked or didn’t like about each school. This will help refine their college list.
- Keep SAT momentum: Don’t let the excitement of college visits distract from SAT prep—balance the two as test day approaches.
May – Take the SAT and Start Building the College Application List
PSAT Prep Tip: Use test day as a learning experience
By May, your junior should be well-prepared to take the SAT. Remind them that this test is just one piece of the college admissions puzzle—and they can always retake it in the fall if needed.
- Relax on test day: Remind your junior to stay calm and trust their preparation. Encourage them to focus on doing their best without the pressure of perfection.
- Reflect on performance: After the SAT, discuss how they felt about the test. Use this reflection to decide whether a retake in the fall would be beneficial.
- Finalize the college list: By now, your junior should have a clearer sense of which schools they want to apply to. Encourage them to narrow down their list to about 8–10 schools, including reach, match, and safety options.
June – Plan for a Productive Summer
PSAT Prep Tip: Use summer to prep for the fall
As the school year wraps up, it’s time to shift focus to summer plans that will further strengthen your junior’s college applications.
- Consider summer programs: Many colleges offer summer programs that give high school students a taste of campus life and academic rigor. Look into opportunities related to your junior’s interests.
- Internships or volunteer work: Encourage your child to seek out internships or volunteer experiences that align with their future career goals.
- Begin working on college essays: Some schools release their essay prompts over the summer. Your junior can use this time to draft personal statements and get feedback before senior year.
College planning can feel overwhelming, but by following this month-by-month blueprint, your high school junior can stay on track and approach the college admissions process with confidence. From SAT prep to college visits, each step in this journey plays an essential role in helping your child achieve their goals. By staying organized and proactive, your junior will be well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Envision by WorldStrides is passionate about guiding students each step of the way as they rise to their highest potential through transformative experiences. Our programs offer hands-on experiences that allow high schoolers to test the waters of possible career tracks in:
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