College Timetable
College preparation doesn't start senior year — it starts now. Use this grade-by-grade guide to stay ahead and give yourself every advantage.
💡 Tip: Share this timetable with your Community Club tutor — they can help you complete tasks, research colleges, and prep for the SAT/ACT during your weekly sessions.
Your College Prep Roadmap
9th Grade
Build your foundation
Meet with your school counselorIntroduce yourself and start building a relationship
Build strong study habits from day oneGrades from 9th grade appear on your transcript
Explore extracurricular activitiesSports, clubs, arts, community service
Review your first-year transcriptConfirm you are on track for graduation credits
Begin exploring careers and interestsWhat subjects do you love? What do you want to do?
Take the PSAT 8/9 if offered at your school
10th Grade
Explore and strengthen
Take challenging coursesConsider honors or AP classes if available and appropriate
Deepen involvement in activitiesLeadership roles stand out on college applications
Begin researching colleges informallyWhat sizes, locations, and programs interest you?
Take the PSAT 10Good practice for the SAT in 11th grade
Start a list of 10–15 colleges you likeInclude reach, match, and safety schools
Look into summer programs or internshipsCollege-prep programs, job shadowing, volunteering
11th Grade
The most important year
Take the PSAT/NMSQT in OctoberQualifies you for National Merit Scholarship consideration
Identify teachers for recommendation lettersBuild relationships with teachers who know you well
Research college visit opportunitiesMany DC colleges offer free campus tours
Take the SAT or ACTAll DCPS 11th graders take the SAT for free at school
Finalize your college list5–10 schools: 2 reach, 4 match, 2 safety
Begin drafting your personal statementWork on this with your Community Club tutor!
Request recommendation letters from teachers
Finalize your college essayHave your tutor or a trusted adult review it
Create your Common App accountcommonapp.org — set up early and fill in basics
Research scholarships and deadlinesApply to as many as you qualify for
12th Grade
Apply and celebrate
Submit Early Decision/Action applicationsDeadlines are typically November 1–15
Complete the FAFSA as early as possibleOpens October 1 — file early to maximize aid
Apply to DC TAG (Tuition Assistance Grant)Up to $10,000/year for DC residents at out-of-state schools
Submit Regular Decision applicationsMost deadlines are January 1–15
Review acceptance letters and financial aid awardsCompare total cost of attendance, not just sticker price
Make your enrollment decision by May 1Submit your deposit and housing application
Notify Community Club of your college choice!We want to celebrate with you 🎉
Graduate and celebrate — you did it! 🎓
Your Tutor Can Help
College prep can feel overwhelming — but you don't have to do it alone. Bring this timetable to your Community Club sessions and work through each step with your tutor's support.