CPS College Prep Tips (HS Class of 2013)

By sedosemagen

  • Congratulations!

    You are on your way to college!

  • CPS High School Fair

    Choosing a high school is one of the most important decisions a Chicago student will make. Be sure to check all of them out and apply early.

  • Meet with Teachers & Tutors

    Talk with teachers and tutors to make sure you are on track for promotion to high school and ready to handle classes.

  • Apply for Freshman Connections

    Apply for Freshman Connections: a program to help 8th-graders' transition into high school easier. Applications are usually due in April.

  • High School Investigation Day

    Check out high schools across the city to help choose the best fit.

  • Freshman Connections

    Get a head start on high school and start preparing for college by earning credit through the summer.

  • Get to know your counselor

    Get to know your counselor and college advisor. Keep in contact with them throughout high school, they will be the ones to turn to during the preparation and application process.

  • Check on credits and courses

    As your planning classes for second semester and next fall, talk with advisors to make sure you are on-track with credits and the right courses.

  • Visit colleges

    Start looking into colleges and visit them to talk with academic advisors. It's never too early.

  • Attend college fairs

    Continue checking out colleges. Get as much information as you can now so you can start preparing for their application requirements.

  • Make sure you are still on-track

    Meet with counselors to sign up for junior year classes and make sure you are still on track with credit requirements.

  • Sign up for AP classes

    You got a jump on high school credits with Freshman Connections, now get a jump on college credits with AP classes. Sign up for them now.

  • Go on more college tours

    It's never enough.

  • Start studying for the ACT

    All colleges require standardized test scores with applications. Start studying now for the ACT or SAT.

  • Start reviewing how to apply for college

    It's a difficult process, better to check into it early.

  • Sign up for classes

    Continue with AP classes and make sure you are signed up for all the remaining classes you need.

  • Take the ACT/SAT

    Study up before you go.

  • Start applying for college

    It's a long process. Start early and give yourself and your recommenders time to fill out the appropriate papers.

  • Fill out many applications

    Fill out at least 5. Include a backup, reach and target schools.

  • Fill out FAFSA

  • Accept college admission offers

  • Apply for FAFSA PIN number

    Filing out a FAFSA (federal financial aid application) is a crucial part in receiving aid money. Apply for a PIN number early and send in the FAFSA as soon as possible after tax returns.