11th Grade Student Checklist | Pinnacle Charter Schools

11th Grade Checklist for College Preparation

As an 11th-grade student, it’s essential to start planning for college and exploring career options. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through this crucial year.

Career Exploration and College Research

1. Explore Careers:

   • Use the Occupational Outlook Handbook to research career options and their earning potential.
   • For a more interactive experience, try this career search tool.

2. Learn About Choosing a College:

   • Discover how to select the right college for you and utilize our free college search tool.

3. Attend College Events:

   • Go to college fairs and presentations hosted by college representatives to gather more information.

Fall

1. Take the PSAT/NMSQT:
   • Ensure you take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of your 11th grade to qualify for scholarships and programs associated with the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Spring

1. Register for College Admission Exams:

   • Sign up for and take the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and ACT, as required by your target colleges. Check specific requirements with each institution.

2. Search for Scholarships:

   • Use a free scholarship search tool to find scholarships you can apply for. Be mindful of deadlines, which can fall as early as the summer between 11th and 12th grades.

Summer Before 12th Grade

1. Create Your FSA ID:

   • Establish a username and password called an FSA ID to manage your federal student aid information. Learn more and create your FSA ID. Ensure you create it yourself to avoid future complications.

2. Narrow Down College Choices:

   • Finalize the list of colleges you are interested in and, if possible, visit these campuses.

3. Request Information from Colleges:

   • Contact colleges to request application materials, and inquire about financial aid, admission requirements, and deadlines.

4. Decide on Application Strategies:

   • Determine if you will apply for early decision, early action, or regular decision programs. Understand the deadlines and requirements for each.

5. Estimate Financial Aid:

   • Use the FAFSA4caster to estimate your financial aid eligibility and compare it with the actual costs of your chosen colleges. Aim to supplement this aid with scholarships to minimize loans.

Additional Resources

• Government Financial Aid:

  • Learn about the types of financial aid available through Federal Student Aid at a Glance.

• Avoiding Scams:

  • Educate yourself on how to avoid scholarship scams and identity theft as you seek financial aid.

For Parents

To Do:

1. Create Your FSA ID:

   • If you haven’t already, create your own FSA ID for signing your child’s FAFSA. Learn how to create your FSA ID. Ensure each person creates their own FSA ID to avoid confusion.

2. Evaluate Financial Readiness:

   • Review your financial situation to ensure you are prepared to support your child’s college expenses.

3. Discuss College Options:

   • Talk to your child about the colleges they are considering and help them clarify their goals and priorities.

4. Attend College Fairs:

   • Accompany your child to college fairs, allowing them to engage with representatives while you listen and support.

5. Visit College Campuses:

   • Plan visits to colleges, ideally while classes are in session.

6. Support Scholarship Applications:

   • Encourage and assist your child in applying for scholarships. Check if your employer offers scholarships for employees’ children.

To Explore:

1. Federal Student Aid Programs:

   • Get detailed information on federal student aid programs.

2. Understanding the Application Process:

   • Familiarize yourself with the federal student aid application process.

3. Student and Parent Loans:

   • Learn about loans through resources like Federal Student Loans: Basics for Students and Federal Student Loans: Direct PLUS Loan Basics for Parents.

By following this checklist, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for the college application process and can make informed decisions about your future.