Summer break is often seen as a time to relax, travel, or just take a breather from the chaos of the school year. And while downtime is essential, summer also offers a golden opportunity—especially for high school students—to get ahead in the college admissions process.
Whether you're a rising junior starting to explore your options or a senior gearing up to apply, here are several ways to make your summer work for you.
1. Visit College Campuses
With more free time and flexibility in your schedule, summer is ideal for visiting colleges. While campuses may be quieter, many still offer guided tours, information sessions, and even the chance to talk to admissions counselors. Visiting schools in person helps you get a feel for the campus vibe, location, and resources—and it can inform your college list later on.
2. Start or Refine Your College List
Use summer to research colleges that match your academic interests, location preferences, and campus culture. Create a spreadsheet or use online tools like College Board’s BigFuture to track requirements, deadlines, application platforms, and key features of each school. Narrowing down your list early makes the application season much less stressful.
3. Prepare for Standardized Tests
Even with many schools going test-optional, a strong SAT or ACT score can still enhance your application or qualify you for scholarships.
Summer gives you uninterrupted time to study, take practice tests, and potentially enroll in prep courses. If you've already taken the test, consider using this time to improve your score.
4. Work on Your Personal Statement
One of the most important elements of your application is your college essay. Summer allows you the time to brainstorm, draft, revise, and polish your personal statement without the pressure of school assignments. Aim to finish a solid draft before senior year starts—you’ll thank yourself later.
5. Explore Enrichment Opportunities
Colleges love to see students who make good use of their time. Consider:
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Taking a college-level course or community college class
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Participating in a summer program in your area of interest
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Volunteering for a cause you're passionate about
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Starting a creative or entrepreneurial project
These activities show initiative, leadership, and dedication—all things admissions officers look for.
6. Build Your Resume
Start compiling your academic, extracurricular, and work experiences into a structured resume. This will help when filling out applications, asking for letters of recommendation, or applying for scholarships.
7. Secure Letters of Recommendation
Summer is a great time to reflect on which teachers, counselors, or mentors might write the strongest letters for you. You can reach out to them early or draft a short summary of your achievements and goals to make the process easier once school starts.
8. Plan Financially
Talk with your family about what you can afford, research financial aid options, and use tools like the Net Price Calculator on college websites. Begin looking at scholarship opportunities, especially those with early deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Summer break is more than a break—it's a strategic window for laying the groundwork for a successful college journey.
Even dedicating just a few hours each week to college-related tasks can make a big difference. By using this time wisely, you’ll enter the school year more prepared, less stressed, and far ahead of the game.