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College might feel light-years away, but the best part about starting early is that you don't have to stress. Think of these high school years as your trial run to figure out what you actually like, and what you want your future to look like.
Published on 11/12/2026
While most of the active college-application steps won’t happen until the year before going to college, it is never too early to start planning for your future education. Taking steps early can help build confidence and allow you to feel more prepared when the time comes. Early in high school is a great time to start exploring options, so below are some key steps to take during 9th, 10th, and 11 grade.
9th Grade
1. Take your grades seriously
One of the best things a student can do early in their high school career is to do their best in class. Repairing a low GPA is incredibly difficult later in high school, and many students realize to late that the school of their dreams is out of reach because of a low GPA. Set yourself up for success by seeking the support you need to get the best grades you can.
2. Explore career options
Start engaging in career-based learning opportunities through your school and broader community, whether it be attending a career fair at school, job-shadowing a friend or family member, or researching online. 9th grade is a great time to start learning without the pressure that comes towards the end of high school
3. Find a few activities and stick to them
Whether you are an athlete, musician, or artist, take time to explore your options and find a few key activities that align with your interests, skills, and passions, and then to follow through with them. Building connections in high school will only help your overall success, and if you end up applying to a competitive college in the future, that school will be most impressed by students who demonstrated commitment through their high school career.
10th Grade
1. Start to explore college options
Most high schools have opportunities for college visits at the high school, college fairs, or off-site campus tours. Take time to engage with a few colleges to start learning more.
2. Start talking about cost
Talk with your parents/guardians about what is affordable for your family, and start making a plan by apply early for scholarships, saving money if you have a job, and learning more about other types of financial aid so you know your options.
3. Explore ways to earn college credit in high school
Most high schools in MN have at least one way for students to earn college credit while still in high school. Whether it is AP classes, an IB program, concurrent enrollment classes, or PSEO, there are a lot of choices. Schedule a meeting with your counselor to learn more about what your school offers and ask about the eligibility requirements, so you are prepared to participate in advanced courses when you are ready.
11th Grade
1. Stay on track with your academics
Now is the time to stay on track for high school graduation, keep grades up, and take advanced courses if you are ready. It is important to think about what is realistic for you before you overcommit. Your college search will not be helped if you do poorly in advanced classes, so make sure you are giving yourself the best opportunity to shine.
2. Prepare for testing
Most juniors in MN will take the PSAT in the fall, and possibly the ACT in the spring. Plan ahead, study as much as you are able, and do your best. Both tests can be helpful in your college admissions process, depending on your plans.
3. Actively begin your college search
Now is the time to get online and do some research about colleges you are interested in, schedule visits if you can, and reach out if you have more questions. Every college admissions office is ready and waiting to talk with prospective students and families, so don’t hesitate to send an email or make a phone call. Consider tracking your favorites in a spreadsheet or other tracking tool to keep everything straight!
Resources
Planning for college may seem like an overwhelming and daunting process, but there are many trusted resources to support you in your journey. Here are a few to get you started:
MN Goes to College has numerous resources dedicated to preparing for college, including a high school planning checklist for 9th through 12th graders. If you want to learn more about a specific topic, like financial aid or the college application process, you can attend or watch a recording from their College Planning Series sessions.
MyHigherEd’s college search tool is another great place to start your search.
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