Spring is a critical time for high school juniors to start thinking ahead, and as a parent, your support and guidance can make a huge difference. The more your student does now, the smoother their senior year and college application process will be. Here are key steps juniors should be taking this spring—with detailed actions and how you can help them prepare for what’s ahead.

1. Start Building a College List

Encourage your student to begin researching colleges using online tools like BigFuture, College Board, or Appily. Have them think about their preferences, such as whether they’d thrive in an urban or rural setting, if they want a large or small campus, and what majors are available. Help them create an initial list of 10–15 schools that could be a good fit.

Parent Tip: Plan a few weekend “virtual visits” together. Discuss the pros and cons after each, and take notes to keep track.

2. Schedule College Visits

Support your teen in registering for campus tours through college websites and help them prepare thoughtful questions to ask during their visits. Aim to visit a mix of different types of colleges to help them compare their options.

Parent Tip: Let your student guide the visit. Be available to help with logistics and questions, but don’t dominate the conversation.

3. Prep for the SAT or ACT

Help your student register for a test date in May or June. Encourage them to choose a prep method that works best for their learning style, whether it’s an online tool like Khan Academy, a prep book, or working with a tutor. Work with them to set up a manageable weekly study schedule.

Parent Tip: Offer quiet time for studying. Encourage consistent but balanced prep—avoid cramming.

4. Make a Summer Plan

Talk with your teen about applying for summer programs or internships and signing up for volunteer opportunities. They might also consider working on personal projects like starting a blog or learning a new skill that shows initiative and creativity.

Parent Tip: Work together to match summer activities with their college and career interests.

5. Ask for Teacher Recommendations Early

Guide your student in selecting one or two teachers from core subjects who know them well. Encourage them to ask for recommendations in person or through a polite email, and suggest that they include a brag sheet or a summary of their achievements to help the teacher write a strong letter.

Parent Tip: Review the request with your teen to ensure it’s polite and clear. Emphasize gratitude and respect.

6. Keep Up the Grades

Remind your student to stay organized with assignments and test dates, and help them schedule dedicated study time, especially during busy weeks. Maintaining strong junior year grades is key to staying competitive in the college admissions process.

Parent Tip: Celebrate effort and progress, not just results. Positive reinforcement can improve motivation.

Want to make sure your student stays on track? Sign up for our free Parent Tips email or check out our Parenting for College Crash Course.