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Find Your Perfect
College Counselor

Connect with expert counselors who will guide you through every step of your college admissions journey

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KNOW MORE ABOUT THE COUNSELOR NEAR YOU

We connect students with the best college counselors to ensure your success in the admissions process

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All counselors are verified with proven track records in college admissions guidance

Specialized Expertise

Find counselors who specialize in your interests, from STEM to arts to international programs

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Connect with counselors in your area or work remotely with experts anywhere

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Attend webinars and workshops to learn about the college process before committing

Upcoming Webinars & Events

Join our expert-led sessions to boost your college preparation

College Essay Masterclass

College Essay Masterclass

Dec 15, 2024
6:00 PM EST

Learn how to craft compelling college essays that stand out

Financial Aid & Scholarships 101

Financial Aid & Scholarships 101

Dec 20, 2024
7:00 PM EST

Navigate the financial aid process and find scholarship opportunities

Choosing the Right College

Choosing the Right College

Jan 10, 2025
6:30 PM EST

Find schools that match your academic goals and personal interests

Start Early, Succeed Big

Benefits of Starting College Prep Early

Early Prep. Endless Possibilities.

Strong Academic Foundation Essential Skills Development Reduced Stress Better Test Preparation Leadership & Expertise Development Increased Confidence

6th-7th Grade

Ideal Start - Exploration Phase

Begin developing study habits and time management skills; explore interests through clubs and activities; focus on building an academic foundation without pressure; establish motivation and excellence habits in the "magic middle" years

8th Grade

Optimal Start - Foundation Phase

Take the PSAT 8/9 test; meet with a high school counselor to plan course selection; discuss college-preparatory classes for 9th grade; solidify study routines; this is the last chance to start with maximum preparation time

9th Grade (Freshman)

High Priority - Action Required

Take challenging college-prep courses (4 English, 3+ math, 3 lab science, 3 history, 2 world language); join clubs and sports; take PSAT 8/9; establish a strong GPA foundation; build relationships with teachers; grades now count for college admissions

10th Grade (Sophomore)

Critical Action Year

Continue rigorous coursework; take PSAT 10; begin serious SAT/ACT prep; explore AP/Dual Enrollment courses; pursue leadership roles in extracurriculars; start building a college resume; begin college research and visits

11th Grade (Junior)

High Stakes - Limited Time

Take SAT/ACT tests (retake if needed); take PSAT for National Merit; request letters of recommendation; take AP exams; build college list; attend college fairs; pursue leadership positions; discuss finances with parents; starting prep NOW means limited time for meaningful development

12th Grade (Senior)

Last Chance - Extremely Limited

Submit applications (Early Decision/Action deadlines in fall); complete FAFSA; finalize essays; attend interviews; make final college decision by spring; starting college prep at this stage means inadequate test preparation, weak extracurricular profile, and high stress

Ideal Time to Start
Action Required
Limited Time

Don't wait until it's too late. Start your college prep journey today!

Jump-Start Your College Prep in High School

Get a head start on your degree—earning college credits in high school saves time, cuts tuition costs, and gives you the freedom to explore more opportunities once you reach campus. Starting early demonstrates academic ambition to admissions officers while building a competitive edge that sets you apart.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

Credits: 3-8 credits per exam
When to Start: 10th–12th grade (varies by school)
How It Works: Take AP classes in school and earn credit by scoring 3+ on the AP exam; some colleges give more credit for scores of 4–5.

Dual Enrollment Programs

Credits: 3-4 credits per course
When to Start: 11th–12th grade (some schools allow 10th)
How It Works: Enroll in partnered college classes (on campus or online) that count for both high school and college at the same time.

CLEP Exams

Credits: 3-6 credits per exam
When to Start: Any grade level when ready for college-level content
How It Works: Self-study, then take a CLEP test to place out of introductory college courses and earn credit without taking the class.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program

Credits: 3-8 credits per exam
When to Start: 11th–12th grade (IB Diploma Programme)
How It Works: Complete IB courses and exams; many colleges award credit for higher-level IB scores, often starting at a 4 or 5.

Online College Courses

Credits: 3-4 credits per course
When to Start: 10th–12th grade (based on college requirements)
How It Works: Take approved college courses online as a high school student and receive transcripted college credit from the offering institution.

Register for Webinar

Choosing the Right College

Jan 10, 2025
6:30 PM EST

Find schools that match your academic goals and personal interests. Duration: 90 minutes