College and Career Planning Checklist

If you're taking an AP course, you can access free learning resources in AP Classroom by joining your class section online with the join code your teacher gives you.

Adding your parent or guardian information to your College Board account is optional, but it's a great idea. The parent or guardian whose information you added can sign up to receive our newsletters as well as copies of important emails sent to you through the "CC a Parent" service. That means you don't need to worry as much about checking your email for messages from us—your parent or guardian can help you keep an eye out.

There are many factors to consider when building your college list, including campus size, location, cost, and available programs. Consider which of these factors you value most to help you narrow down your search and create the right list for you.

Want to start hearing from colleges and scholarship programs looking for students like you? Opt in to Student Search Service™ so they can contact you directly. You'll learn about life on campus, scholarships, financial aid, and more. If you’re already signed up, you’re set.

The PSAT/NMSQT is the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. If your school offers the PSAT/NMSQT for your grade, you’ll take it in the fall. The PSAT/NMSQT measures the skills and knowledge that are most important to college and career success. It can help you learn your strengths and areas you need to improve so that you can stay on track.

Regardless of your AP Exam score, completing an AP course and exam shows your determination to tackle college-level work. Learn more about the ways you'll benefit.

It’s never too early to plan ahead for next school year. Find out how you can pick the AP course(s) that are right for you.

It might feel early to start thinking about a career path, but now is the time to start! You’re more likely to be happy and successful in your work when your job matches your interests. Take this easy 15-minute quiz to get matched with careers based on your likes and dislikes.

When your PSAT/NMSQT scores are ready, you can ask your school counselor for your PSAT/NMSQT score report or access the BigFuture® School mobile app if you provided your mobile number on test day. As always, you can use your personal College Board account to access their scores. You'll see your overall score and section scores with details about areas where you excel and areas where you might want to focus some additional study time. You'll also see which AP courses might be a good fit for you.

PSAT/NMSQT scores are not sent to colleges—they're meant to help you plan for the rest of high school and focus on the knowledge and skills that matter most for college and career success.

If you’ve taken the PSAT 8/9, PSAT 10, or PSAT/NMSQT, explore your AP Potential™. Learn which AP courses you’re ready for by reviewing your personalized list.

It’s time to start planning for 11th grade. You’ll work with your counselor, teachers, and/or parents to select courses. Check out the most popular AP courses for 11th graders.

If your school offers the PSAT 10, you'll take it in the spring. The PSAT 10 and the PSAT/NMSQT are essentially the same test, but PSAT 10 is offered only to 10th graders. Taking the PSAT 10 is a great way to see how your knowledge and test-taking skills are progressing halfway through high school.

Familiarize yourself with the different types of financial aid available, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Understanding these options will empower you to make informed decisions about the colleges you consider.

No essay, no minimum GPA or test score, or citizenship requirements. Just follow the steps for chances to win. The more steps you complete and the earlier you start, the more chances you have to win!

Start exploring colleges by visiting campuses or exploring virtual tour options on college websites. This will help you learn more about which colleges you’re most interested in.

AP Exam scores are released in early July. Check out these tips to ensure you are ready to view yours.

Summer is a great time to explore interests and learn new skills—and colleges look for students who pursue meaningful summer activities. Find out ways you can stay motivated this summer.