Juniors
11th Grade Students
All Year Long
Work with a parent to update your information in FAFSA4caster at www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov and continue to save for college
Take challenging classes in core academic subjects
Stay involved in school- or community-based activities that interest you or let you explore career interests
Talk to your school counselor and other mentors about education after high school
Explore careers and their earning potential in the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/oco
Log on to your MyFSA account at www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov/myfsa and look at the information you may have saved; try the college search again if you have changed your mind about what you want from a school
Go to college fairs and presentations by college representatives
Fall
Take the PSAT/NMSQT to qualify for scholarships and programs associated with the National Merit Scholarship Program
Spring
Register for and take college admissions exams; check with the colleges you are interested in to see what tests they require
Use www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov/scholarshipto find scholarships for which you might want to apply; pay close attention to deadlines
11th Grade Parents
Continue to talk to your child about college plans
Keep an eye on your child's study habits and grades
Encourage your child to take challenging classes
Add to your child's college savings account regularly
Take another look at your financial situation and be sure you're on the right track to pay for college
Talk to your child about the schools he or she is considering; ask why those schools appeal to your child and help him or her clarify goals and priorities
Attend college fairs with your child but don't take over the conversation with the representative; listen and let your child do the talking
Take your child to visit college campuses, preferably when classes are in session