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Don’t panic. The idea of going to college—and all the steps involved to get READY—may seem overwhelming at first, but if you plan ahead, start thinking about this early, and stay focused on your future, you can make it happen.

Get Ready…

Step 1: Get On Track to Graduate From High School
You can’t get into college without a high school diploma. In Massachusetts, this means meeting all of your school's local requirements for graduation and earning at least a passing score of 220 on the English and Mathematics Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System exams. Most high schools offer programs to help students who have trouble passing one or both of these exams, and the state has an appeals process for high-performing students who don’t test well. For more information about MCAS, talk to your teachers or guidance counselors, or look online: www.doe.mass.edu/mcas.

You'll get the best education and preparation for college by staying in school and getting your high school diploma, but if you've dropped out, you have another option—getting a GED. For more information, go to: www.doe.mass.edu/ged/.

Step 2: Talk to Your Teachers or Counselors
Are you taking the right classes to get into college? If you're not sure, ask. There are lots of people in your school—like your teachers and guidance counselors—who can provide the guidance and support you need to prepare for college. They can also help you choose the right classes each year and map out the courses—and grades—you’ll need to graduate and be a competitive college applicant.

For more information about course requirements for admission to public colleges in Massachusetts, visit: www.mass.edu.

Step 3: Take the PSAT, SAT and/or ACT Exams
The SAT is a rite of passage in most high schools, but to do well you must prepare. One way to do this is to take the PSAT. This “practice SAT” is given to sophomores to get students used to taking this type of exam. Some schools offer prep classes, but there are also plenty of resources online to help you practice answering SAT-style questions and improve your test-taking skills.

Most colleges on the East Coast require SAT results, but many on the West Coast look for ACT results, so consider taking that assessment test, as well.  

One piece of advice about the SAT and ACT: take them early in your high school career. If you don’t like your results, you'll still have plenty of time to retake the tests.

For more information on the PSAT, SAT and ACT exams look online:

• Information about the PSAT and SAT
• Full length SAT practice test online from Princeton Review
• Free SAT Prep questions
• SAT-ACT Test Prep

Step 4: Participate in a Dual Enrollment Program
Some schools have partnerships with local colleges or universities to allow students to attend college-level classes on campus while still in high school. Look into this! If your school offers this opportunity, sign up. Dual enrollment not only provides you with college credit, it also gives you a taste of college-level work and a chance to spend some time on a college campus. To find out if your school offers dual enrollment courses, ask your teachers or guidance counselor.

Step 5: Enroll in Advanced Placement classes
Another way to do college-level work while in high school is through Advanced Placement or AP courses. Most high schools offer these courses in all major subjects. Like Dual Enrollment programs, AP-level classes give students a taste of college-level work, along with a chance to earn college credit while in high school. Check with your guidance counselor to see what AP classes your school offers, or look online for more information: http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/Controller.jpf

Looking for more resources to help you get ready? Click here to check out our links!