For families of juniors, 11th grade is one of the most important years in the college planning journey. It is the time when students begin to transition from exploring possibilities to taking concrete steps – from standardized testing to college visits – that will shape their future applications.
As a parent, your role is to provide structure, encouragement, and balance. Below are key areas to focus on during junior year to ensure your student is set up for success.
Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October
The PSAT/NMSQT is more than just a practice test. It:
- Offers valuable feedback on academic strengths and areas for growth.
- Serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
- Connects students to study resources – linking PSAT scores to Khan Academy provides customized lessons to strengthen skills.
Parent tip: Even if your child plans to take the ACT, the PSAT is still worth completing for feedback and scholarship opportunities.
Map Out Standardized Testing
Juniors should plan when they will take the SAT or ACT for the first time, typically in the winter or spring.
- Encourage your student to take a practice SAT and ACT to see which test feels like the better fit.
- Build a prep plan that includes practice tests, review sessions, or tutoring.
- Mark test dates on a shared family calendar to keep preparation on track.
Parent tip: Some students benefit from formal prep courses, while others thrive with independent study. Work with your teen to find the right fit for their learning style.
Plan for AP Exams and Rigorous Coursework
If your child is enrolled in AP courses, preparation should begin early.
- Encourage eight weeks of review before each exam.
- Remind your student that teachers are often the best starting resource for study strategies.
- Balance is key – AP classes matter, but so does mental well-being.
Explore Colleges Firsthand
Junior year is the ideal time to start college visits. When visiting campuses, help your student look beyond the surface.
- Explore how potential career interests align with majors offered at each school.
- Encourage your child to reflect on campus size, location, and community culture.
- Attend information sessions and tour academic departments when possible.
Parent tip: Even if in-person visits are limited, virtual tours and online Q&A sessions can provide valuable insight.
Consider Summer Opportunities
The summer before senior year is a powerful time to build experiences that enrich college applications. Options may include:
- Pre-college programs at universities to explore academic interests.
- Internships or volunteer work to develop skills and demonstrate initiative.
- Independent projects that highlight creativity or leadership.
Begin the College Essay Early
While most applications aren’t due until senior year, summer is the perfect time for students to draft their main college essay.
- Starting early allows for reflection, revisions, and reduced stress.
- Supplemental essays can also be outlined or drafted over the summer to lighten the fall workload.
Parent tip: Encourage your child to write authentically. The essay is an opportunity for colleges to hear their unique voice.
Junior year sets the foundation for the college application season ahead. With planning, balance, and support, your child can use this year to clarify goals, strengthen academic readiness, and approach senior year with confidence.
As a parent, your steady encouragement helps keep the process manageable – and reminds your student that this is not just about applications, but about growth, discovery, and preparing for what comes next.
Updated 8/29/25. Expanded article based on a piece publised in NYMetroParents: helpful insight for parents of 12th grade students by the founder of Novella Prep.