It is always helpful to see a college while students are there. Colleges pay particular attention to the kind of courses you take throughout high school. Take Advanced Placement Examinations if you are completing an AP course in your junior year. Plan vacation trips with your parents so that you can visit as many of the colleges you are interested in as possible. Write, call, or e-mail to the colleges which interest you, and secure all appropriate application materials.
Colleges look unfavorably at falling grades and light or reduced loads during the senior year.
Check application materials and counseling office for deadlines for testing during the fall. File applications for tests. Set up timetables for taking tests and completing applications. Check early decision deadlines. Meet college representatives when they visit your school.