Preparing for College
Thinking about college? Get a head start on your journey to Rocky Top and stay connected by following us on social media and joining our mailing list.
Your Junior Year
It’s never too early to start preparing for college, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the UT admissions process.
Join our mailing list to add some orange to your mailbox while staying informed about upcoming events and important admissions updates.
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College Prep Checklist
From building your college list to preparing for the ACT or SAT, junior year matters. Use our checklist to stay on track!
Fall
- Meet with your school counselor. Talk to your counselor about what classes you need to take to put you on track for admission into UT and admission into your desired major. Check on your GPA—it’s not too late to improve.
- Meet your UT admissions counselor. It’s never too early to connect with your UT admissions counselor. Our team is here to answer all of your questions about the college admissions process. Check your counselor’s page often to see what local high school visits and fairs are on their schedule.
- Take the PSAT. Taking the test will qualify you for scholarship programs such as the National Merit Scholarship program. Review your test results with your counselor to assess your strengths and weaknesses to help you prepare for future testing.
- Make a testing plan and start to prepare. Mark your calendar with important dates for tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams. We use the superscoring method of combining your highest test scores into a new composite score. Start to prepare for these tests and use free test-preparation resources online and through your school guidance counselor. We suggest you take either the SAT or ACT at least once in the spring of your junior year and once in the fall of your senior year.
- Stay involved. Continue your involvement in clubs, sports, leadership positions, community activities, and more. We love to see that you participate in extracurricular activities.
- Create a resume. Keep track of your accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and work experience. This will come in handy when you start your application.
Winter
- Meet with your school counselor. Plan your senior schedule so that you are on track for graduation and discuss summer programs and opportunities.
- Register for the spring ACT or SAT test date. Register early to secure your preferred date or testing location.
- Get an early start on your Self-Reported Transcript and Academic Record System (STARS). You can start creating your STARS as early as your freshman year in high school! We’ve provided resources to help you get started here.
Spring
- Plan a campus visit. Attend an open house, campus tour, or information session. Check out our Programs and Events page for a schedule of upcoming events. We look forward to seeing you!
- Explore financial aid options. Make sure you do your research! Start by visiting our Cost and Aid page for an overview of financial resources available at UT. Then, check out our net price calculator for an estimate of financial aid and out-of-pocket costs.
Summer
- Start working on application essays. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, draft, and revise.
- Start reviewing our application checklist. Make sure to note the materials you will need to complete your application to UT.
Discover Student Life at UT
From academic clubs to service groups, student organizations are a big part of life on Rocky Top. Now is a great time to explore the many ways Vols connect, build community, and get involved.
Supporting Your Student
Families play an important role in the college planning journey, and we’re here to offer guidance and support to help make the process smoother for your entire family.
Ready to Apply?
We can’t wait to review your application for admission! Create a Go Vols account to start your application, or choose the University of Tennessee, Knoxville on your Common Application!
Request Information
Join our mailing list to stay up-to-date on the latest information and events happening on campus. It’s the best way to add a little orange to your mailbox!
Find My Counselor
Your admissions counselor will be with you every step of the way on your journey to Rocky Top! They’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you have and help you through the application process.