1. Choose your classes carefully. Make sure your course selections are in line with the core classes needed for college admission. Work with your high school counselor and review the recommendations in Iowa Regents Admission Index (RAI).

  2. Take the ACT or SAT. Taking the test during your junior year allows you to take the test again in the summer before, or the fall of your senior year if you're not happy with your score. These standardized test scores are heavily considered by most college admission officials, so prepare well. Your high school counselor can recommend books, web sites, and classes to help you prepare. Make sure you send your scores to every school you're interested in by indicating college-specific codes on test day.
    Iowa's Codes: ACT: 1356   SAT: 6681

  3. Narrow your list. Attempt to narrow your list of prospective schools to between three and five by the end of the year. If your list is longer, it becomes difficult to keep track of admission procedures and deadlines.

  4. Pursue extracurricular activities. Are you part of clubs or teams at school? Extracurriculars demonstrate initiative, give you valuable experience, and prepare you for the professional world. You can try new activities and get involved once you are a Hawkeye.

  5. Assemble your application materials. Start compiling your application materials in the fall, especially if the application requires a recommendation from a teacher.

  6. Study financial aid terms and procedures. Attend a financial aid information session at your high school, if possible, and develop a strategy for finding scholarships. Be wary of scholarship search services that charge a fee. Instead, use various web search engines and discuss opportunities with your high school guidance counselor.

  7. Job shadow. Reach out to individuals in a profession you’re curious about and ask if you can observe them at work. This will help you narrow down your interests and plan your academic future.

  8. Visit Campus. Being on campus is the best wayt o see a school's community in action. Explore for yourself what it's like to be a Hawkeye - plan a visit today!