10th Grade Checklist

The majority of the resources provided here can be found at bigfuture.collegeboard.org

First Semester

• Access free AP resources

  If you're taking an AP course, you can access free learning resources on bigfuture.collegeboard.org

   

• Connect with colleges and scholarships

  Want to start hearing from colleges and scholarship programs looking for students like you? Opt into Student Search Service so they can contact you directly. You'll learn about life on campus, scholarships, financial aid, and more. 

   

• Take the PSAT/NMSQT

  The PSAT/NMSQT is the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. If your school offers the PSAT/NMSQT to 10th graders, you'll take it in the fall. The PSAT/NMSQT measures the skills and knowledge that are most important to college and career success. It can help you learn your strengths and areas you need to improve so that you can stay on track. 

   

• Take the career quiz

  It might feel early to start thinking about a career path, but now is the time to start! You’re more likely to be happy and successful in your work when your job matches your interests. Take this easy, 15-minute quiz to get matched with careers based on your likes and dislikes.

   

• Review your PSAT/NMSQT score

  When your PSAT/NMSQT scores are ready, log in to your account to see how you did. You'll see your overall score and section scores with details about areas where you excel and areas where you should focus some additional study time. You'll also see which AP courses might be a good match for you. PSAT/NMSQT scores are not sent to colleges—they're meant to help you plan for the rest of high school and focus on the knowledge and skills that matter most for college and career success.

   

• Research college and costs

  College is potentially just a few years away. If there are colleges you’re interested in, or you want to learn about the different types of colleges and their cost, start researching colleges using some of the resources below:

  • • https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search/filters
    • https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges/ 
    • https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/college-search

   

   

Second Semester

• Decide which AP courses to take next year

  It’s time to start planning for 10^th grade. You’ll work with your counselor, teachers, and/or parents to select courses. Be sure to look at which AP courses you might be able to take. AP classes aren't just for juniors and seniors. In fact, some of the most popular courses are often taken by 9th and 10th graders. Check out the most popular AP courses for younger students.

   

• Take the PSAT 10 

  If your school offers the PSAT 10, you'll take it in the spring. The PSAT 10 and the PSAT/NMSQT are essentially the same test, but PSAT 10 is offered only to 10th graders. Taking the PSAT 10 is a great way to see how your knowledge and test-taking skills are progressing halfway through high school.

   

• Start a college list

  Here are many factors to consider when building your college list, including campus size, location, cost, and available programs. Consider which of these factors you value most to help you narrow down your search and create the right list for you!

   

• Visit a college campus

  Do you live near a college? We recommend visiting college campuses as early as possible to get a sense of what college life is like.

   

• Stay motivated over the summer

  Summer is a great time to explore interests and learn new skills — and colleges look for students who pursue meaningful summer activities. Find out ways your can stay motivated this summer.