What Does My Child Need to Do to Get Into College?

What Does My Child Need to Do to Get Into College?

A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents of 11th Graders

Junior year is a pivotal time in your child’s high school journey—and for many families, it’s when college becomes real. As a parent, you want to support your child without overwhelming them (or yourself), and knowing what steps they should take now can make a huge difference.

So, what does your child need to do to get into college? Here’s a clear, parent-friendly breakdown of the key steps 11th graders should be taking this year to prepare for the college application process.

1. Keep Academics Strong

Colleges look closely at junior year grades—this is often the most recent full year of academic performance they'll evaluate when making decisions.

How you can help:

  • Encourage consistent study habits and time management.

  • Make sure your child is taking appropriate-level classes (honors, AP, IB, or dual enrollment, if available).

  • Offer support or tutoring if grades begin to dip.

2. Start Exploring Colleges

Now’s the time for your child to get a feel for different types of colleges: large or small, urban or rural, public or private.

How you can help:

  • Start conversations about what matters most: cost, location, academic programs, etc.

  • Take your child on local campus visits or attend virtual tours together.

  • Use online tools like College Board’s BigFuture or Niche to explore options.

3. Register for the PSAT (and Plan for the SAT/ACT)

The PSAT (usually in October) is good practice and can lead to scholarship opportunities through the National Merit program.

How you can help:

  • Make sure your child is registered through their school.

  • Discuss a testing timeline: most students take the SAT or ACT in spring of junior year.

  • Consider PSAT  and SAT test prep resources

4. Encourage Extracurricular Involvement

Colleges want well-rounded students who are involved in activities outside of academics.

How you can help:

  • Support your child’s involvement in clubs, sports, arts, community service, or part-time work.

  • Help them track their activities, leadership roles, and accomplishments—they’ll need this for applications.

  • Remind them that depth (commitment and leadership in a few areas) matters more than doing “everything.”

5. Start Discussing College Essays and Recommendations

It’s a little early to start writing application essays, but brainstorming ideas now is helpful. Students will also need letters of recommendation—often from junior year teachers.

How you can help:

  • Encourage your child to reflect on meaningful experiences or challenges they’ve overcome—these may become future essay topics.

  • Remind them to build strong relationships with teachers now.

  • Help them stay organized with a list of potential recommenders and deadlines.

6. Talk Honestly About Finances

College is a big investment, and it’s important to start the money conversation early.

How you can help:

  • Discuss your family’s budget for college and set realistic expectations.

  • Research financial aid (FAFSA), scholarships, and college net price calculators together.

  • Look into local or merit-based scholarship opportunities your child might qualify for now or next year.

7. Support College Planning and Organization

Junior year can be stressful. Having a plan helps keep your child on track—and helps you feel more in control, too.

How you can help:

  • Encourage them to meet with their school counselor to discuss goals and build a plan.

  • Help them create a calendar or checklist for test dates, college visits, and application tasks.

  • Gently check in, but let them take the lead—this is a great time for them to build independence and responsibility.

8. Plan for Summer Before Senior Year

Summer between junior and senior year is a key opportunity to get ahead.

How you can help:

  • Help your child plan productive summer activities: college visits, internships, jobs, volunteer work, or even starting college essays.

  • Consider scheduling campus visits during summer breaks.

  • Encourage them to start working on their Common App or essay drafts in July or August.

Final Thoughts for Parents

Applying to college is a big step—not just for students, but for families. As a parent, your role is to guide, encourage, and support your child through the process, while allowing them to take ownership of their future.

Start conversations early, stay organized, and remember: you don’t need all the answers at once. By helping your child take small, meaningful steps during 11th grade, you’ll set them up for a more confident and successful college application season.

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