8 Essential Things Juniors Should Do This Summer to Prepare for College Applications

As junior year ends and summer begins, many high school students—and their families—wonder: What should I be doing right now to get ready for college applications?

At Ascend Education Consulting, we guide students through every phase of the college admissions process. The summer before senior year is a pivotal time to boost your college readiness and reduce stress in the fall. Here are the eight most important things rising seniors can do now to stay ahead.

1. Finalize Your College List

Your college list is the foundation of your application strategy. By the end of junior year, you should be narrowing your list to around 8–12 schools, including a mix of reach, target, and likely options.

🔎 College List Tips:

• Research each school’s academic offerings, size, culture, and location

• Consider Early Decision and Early Action strategies

• Check test policies and essay requirements

2. Visit Campuses (or Take Virtual Tours)

College visits—whether in-person or virtual—are essential for figuring out which schools truly fit you. Use the summer to tour campuses, attend info sessions, and talk to current students.

📍 Focus On:

• Academic departments you're interested in

• Campus vibe and diversity

• Support programs and resources

• Write notes about what is appealing about each school. You'll be surprised how quickly they start to blend together. (Hint - it also sets you up for success with the supplemental essays)

  
  

3. Start Your Personal Statement Early

The Common App essay is your chance to showcase your voice, values, and personal growth. Starting early gives you time to reflect and revise.

📝 Essay Tips from Our College Essay Experts:

• Choose a story only you can tell

• Focus on reflection, not just experience

• Don’t aim to impress—aim to connect

💡 Ascend offers 1-on-1 college essay coaching to help students craft powerful, authentic essays.

4. Organize Your Activities and Honors

The activities section of your application is a key opportunity to highlight your impact, leadership, and initiative.

📂 Start a Resume or Activities Tracker:

• Include positions, achievements, and hours

• Quantify impact when possible

• Prioritize quality over quantity

  
  

5. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters

Ask your junior-year teachers now—before summer break—for letters of recommendation. Be thoughtful, and provide context to help them write a strong letter.

📬 Pro Tip: Prepare a short “brag sheet” with your goals, favorite classroom moments, and personal strengths to help your teacher write a more personalized letter.

6. Prep for Standardized Tests

Even in a test-optional world, a strong SAT or ACT score can still be a valuable part of your application. Summer is a great time to prep and test without the distraction of school.

📆 Testing Strategy:

• Take a diagnostic to determine your baseline

• Choose one test to focus on

• Register for a late summer or early fall date to allow time to retake, if necessary

7. Pursue a Meaningful Summer Experience

Use your summer break to pursue something that aligns with your interests. Colleges value initiative and depth of involvement.

☀️ Great Summer Activities Include:

• Internships or part-time jobs

• Volunteering or community projects

• Personal passion projects (writing, coding, starting a nonprofit)

• Online college courses or enrichment programs

Your experience doesn’t need to be flashy—it just needs to be authentic and intentional.

8. Get Organized for Senior Year

Come fall, application deadlines will come fast. Spend time now organizing materials so you’re ready to hit the ground running when the Common Application opens on August 1.

📁 College Application Prep Checklist:

• Unofficial transcript

• Test scores

• Activities list/resume

• College deadlines calendar

• Essay drafts

• Logins for Common App, FAFSA, and school portals

  
  

Final Thoughts: Set Yourself Up for a Successful College Admissions Journey

The summer between junior and senior year can set the tone for your entire college application experience. With strategic planning, reflection, and a little guidance, you’ll be ready to apply with confidence.

At Ascend Education Consulting, we help students tell compelling stories, build strategic college lists, and get into top-tier schools around the world.

🎓 Ready to make the most of your summer?Schedule a free consultation with a college admissions expert today at ascendedconsulting.com.