9th 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

   

• Review your PSAT 8/9 scores

  If your school offers the PSAT 8/9, you may take it either in the fall or the spring. Your score report includes detailed information about how your PSAT 8/9 scores relate to specific academic skills and provide customized feedback on how to improve in these subject areas. This can help you choose high school courses, show you which AP classes may be a good match for you, and get you started thinking about college or career plans.

• 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

• 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.

   

• Calculate your GPA

  Now that you’ve completed your first semester, calculate your grade point average. This is an important factor most colleges will look at when you apply to college. 

   

• 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.

   

• 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. 

   

• 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.