There’s a lot a 10th-grade student can do to stay on the right track toward college, and a lot a parent can do to help.

Take a look at these tips for thinking about the future, managing time, taking standardized tests, and more.

10th Grade Checklists

Students

To Do:

  • Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their requirements.
  • Consider taking a practice Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) or the PLAN exam.
  • Plan to use your summer wisely: Work, volunteer, or take a summer course (away or at a local college).
  • Go to career information events to get a more detailed look at career options.
  • Research majors that might be a good fit with your interests and goals based on your results from the U.S. Department of Labor’s career search.

To Explore:


Parents

To Do:

  • Find out whether your child’s school has college nights or financial aid nights. Plan to attend those events with your child.
  • Help your child develop independence by encouraging him or her to take responsibility for balancing homework with any other activities or a part-time job.

To Explore: