If you’ve just wrapped up junior year—congratulations. You’ve made it through one of the most academically challenging years of high school. Now, summer is your most strategic opportunity to reduce the pressure of senior fall and strengthen your college applications. By using June, July, and August wisely, you can walk into senior year with confidence, clarity, and momentum.
Here’s a month-by-month guide to help you stay on track.
June: Lay the Groundwork
If possible, begin your planning before July. You’ll thank yourself later.
Finalize your college list
Aim for a balanced mix of reach, match, and likely schools—typically 10 to 12 total. Consider location, size, academic strengths, financial fit, and the kind of campus culture you want. If you’re applying to schools abroad, research their deadlines and admission criteria early.Ask for letters of recommendation
If you haven’t already, reach out to teachers now. Provide a resume or brag sheet to help them write a strong, personalized letter. Be courteous and give them plenty of time.Register for standardized tests if needed
If you’re planning to take or retake the SAT or ACT, sign up for the August test date now. Use prep tools like Khan Academy, or work with a tutor if time and budget allow.
July: Build Your Foundation
July is the month to get your ideas on paper and begin crafting key elements of your application.
Weeks 1–2
Create a college application tracker
Use Google Sheets, Notion, or another tool to keep track of deadlines, essay prompts, test policies, financial aid requirements, and recommendation letters.Brainstorm personal statement topics
Reflect on your personal growth, values, identity, or experiences that have shaped who you are. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box—some of the best essays are simple, specific, and deeply honest.Begin drafting your Common App personal statement
Don’t aim for perfection right away. Start with a rough draft that captures your voice. You’ll revise multiple times, but the hardest part is getting started.
Weeks 3–4
Start supplemental essays for Early Action or Early Decision schools
Identify your top-choice schools with earlier deadlines and begin drafting their supplemental essays. Focus on frequently asked prompts like “Why this college?” or “How will you contribute to our campus?”Review each school’s application requirements Note whether they use the Common App, Coalition App, UC Application, or a school-specific platform. Track deadlines for Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision. Begin organizing these details in a spreadsheet or planner.
August: Polish and Prepare for Launch
August is when you refine your work and prepare to hit submit with confidence in the fall.
Weeks 1–2
Revise and finalize your personal statement
By now, you should be on your second or third draft. Read your essay out loud, and ask trusted readers—like a teacher or counselor—for feedback on clarity, tone, and structure.Complete the Common App
August 1st is when the Common App is released, so begin by adding schools through the College Search tab on the application. Fill out the Common App section: personal information, education history, extracurricular activities, and honors. Use clear action verbs and quantify your achievements where possible. Finally, complete the school specific questions for each college.Draft and revise 2–3 supplemental essays
Focus on the schools with early deadlines. Use your earlier brainstorming to write responses that are specific, well-researched, and authentic.
Weeks 3–4
Create a submission spreadsheet
Map out all your application deadlines, including college-specific portals, scholarships, and financial aid forms. Give yourself internal deadlines that are at least a week ahead of the official ones.Set up school-specific portals
Some schools—like UC campuses, MIT, or Georgetown—use their own platforms. Be sure to create those accounts and review what’s required. Summer isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s a time to tell your story on your own terms. With a clear plan, a bit of structure, and a willingness to reflect, you’ll be in a strong position to apply with confidence and clarity. We have a limited number of seats for seniors remaining for our Fall 2025 Cohort. Don’t wait to find an admissions consultant. Sign up today!