Summer break is often seen as a time to relax, recharge, and take a break from the academic grind—and it should be. But if you’re a high school junior (rising senior), summer 2025 is also a golden opportunity to get ahead in the college admissions process.
Here’s how you can make the most of your summer while still enjoying your time off—and set yourself up for a successful senior year.
🎯 1. Finalize or Refine Your College List
Now’s the time to narrow down your list of potential schools. Start by:
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Researching schools that match your academic profile, interests, and goals
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Taking virtual or in-person campus tours
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Comparing admission requirements, campus life, and financial aid options
By the end of summer, aim to have a balanced college list that includes a mix of reach, match, and safety schools.
✍️ 2. Start (or Finish) Your College Essay
Your college essay is one of the most personal and impactful parts of your application. Summer is the perfect time to:
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Brainstorm meaningful experiences or personal stories
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Draft and revise your Common App personal statement
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Get feedback from a teacher, counselor, or tutor
📝 Pro Tip: Write a rough draft by mid-summer. That way, you’ll have plenty of time for revisions in the fall without feeling rushed.
📚 3. Prepare for the SAT or ACT (If You’re Taking It)
If you’re planning to take (or retake) the SAT or ACT in August, September, or October, summer is your last big prep window. Set a study schedule that fits around your other summer plans and use official practice tests to gauge your progress.
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Use tools like Bluebook (for the digital SAT)
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Focus on your weakest sections
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Consider a prep course or tutoring for extra support
Even in a test-optional world, a strong score can boost your application and open doors to scholarships.
🏆 4. Pursue Meaningful Activities
Colleges don’t expect you to solve world hunger over the summer—but they do love to see initiative and engagement. That could mean:
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Working a part-time job
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Volunteering in your community
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Starting a passion project
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Attending a summer academic program or workshop
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Shadowing a professional in a career field you’re curious about
What matters is that you’re doing something intentional with your time.
📁 5. Organize Your Application Materials
Start building a folder—digital or physical—with all your key information:
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A résumé of your activities and achievements
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A list of potential recommenders
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A spreadsheet with college deadlines and requirements
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Transcripts, test scores, and awards
Staying organized now will make the fall application season so much smoother.
💬 6. Start Thinking About Recommendation Letters
If you're planning to apply early (or even regular decision), you’ll need to request letters of recommendation in early fall. Use the summer to reflect on which teachers know you best and how they can speak to your strengths.
You don’t need to ask just yet—but be ready to when school starts.
🧘 7. Take Time for Yourself, Too
Yes, college is important—but so is your well-being. Make sure you’re balancing productivity with rest. Read for fun, travel if you can, hang out with friends, and enjoy your time off. You’ll be a better student and applicant if you’re refreshed and mentally strong.
Final Thoughts
Summer 2025 can be a turning point. With a smart plan, you can reduce stress, strengthen your applications, and gain clarity about what you want from college—all before senior year even starts.
And remember: You don’t have to do everything perfectly. You just need to take purposeful steps forward.