College Preparation Timeline
College preparation is a four-year process of discovering interests, identifying strengths, and discerning the next steps in each student’s educational journey. The following timeline provides CLASSICAL students and families with the practical guidance for navigating high school years with intention, making the most of each year, and preparing for life beyond graduation.
Freshman Year
- Introductory meetings with every student
- Students introduced to CLASSICAL email and SCOIR
- Discussions about high school expectations & goal setting
- Encourage students to explore career interests & college pathways
- Encourage students to establish a strong academic foundation through course selection and study habits
- Involvement in extracurricular activities
- CLT practice exam
Sophomore Year
- Academic advising & GPA monitoring
- PSAT prep & exploring majors
- Leadership development through citadels
- Getting to know SCOIR
- Encourage first college visits
- CLT practice exam
Junior Year
- Intensive college preparation: one-on-one meetings with college counselor
- PSAT in fall
- Build preliminary college lists
- Attend college fairs & campus visits
- Begin drafting personal statements & resumes
- Introduction to financial aid & scholarships
- College essay writing and Common App workshops
- College Entrance Exams (SAT/ACT/CLT)- winter/spring
Senior Year
- Finalist college lists & complete applications (early decision/regular decision)
- Submit essays and recommendation letters
- Apply for scholarships & financial aid
- College interview preparation, make final decisions after receiving college letters
- Transition to college workshops