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University Planning Guide

UNIVERSITY PLANNING GUIDE · U.S. GRADE 11

Most of your application is made in grade 11.

This year's grades, contest results, test scores, and teacher letters form most of your application. Essays wait until summer.

Each line opens the story of an illustrative U.S. junior.

At a school outside the U.S.?

Written for the 2026–27 school year.

Students in grade 11 in 2026–27 usually apply in fall 2027 for 2028 entry.

This year at a glance

Does junior year matter most?

Yes. It's the last full year of grades colleges see when you apply. Harvard and Stanford prefer letters from grade 11 or 12 teachers.

What matters most, in our view
Strong grades in demanding courses, your best contest result this spring, and two teachers who know your work. Your field Letters
One thing this fall
Check the winter deadlines for juniors' summer programs. Applications for the Research Science Institute close December 11, 2026. The summer
Can wait, in our view
Leave application essays until summer and early-application choices until the fall of grade 12.

Rules can change before 2028. Check each college, contest, and program for your year.

The bell tower, red roof, and lawn at Palo Alto High School in California.
Palo Alto High School, California · Photo: David Sawyer / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0. Resized and cropped.

Start where you are

Three students, three starting points.

If your school has plenty of advanced coursesMeet Willa: history and writingAt a big school where friends take four or five Advanced Placement (AP) courses, she takes two, edits the paper's features, and asks two teachers for letters in May.An illustrative student

At a big school where friends take four or five Advanced Placement (AP) courses, she takes two, edits the paper's features, and asks two teachers for letters in May.

Both her parents work, and the family earns a little over $100,000 a year.

What to avoidTaking a third AP because her friends do.

An illustrative exampleWilla’s grade 11, at a glance

Classes (advanced ones in green)

  • AP U.S. History
  • AP English Language
  • Honors Precalculus
  • Honors Physics
  • Spanish IV Honors
  • Newspaper

In History Day season: about 8 hours a week

  • Features editor5 h
  • History Day paper3 h
  • $490 or sothis school year: six tutoring sessions, two AP exams, and History Day
  • 22 h a weekin summer: the camp job again

  1. Grade 11 · The peak year

    Three choices, and why, Willa

    • She takes two Advanced Placement (AP) courses while friends take four or five. Her schedule also includes Honors Precalculus and Honors Physics.

      WhyA demanding schedule with strong grades beats a bigger one with weaker grades, and her Honors Precalculus and Honors Physics are demanding too. The evidence 

    • She books six paid math tutoring sessions for January to March. Her PSAT and a practice test show the same gap in math. The junior-year PSAT is a practice SAT used for National Merit scholarship selection.

      WhyWe'd pay for a fixed number of sessions to address a specific gap. The coaching finding in grade 10 

    • In May, she asks two teachers for letters. She chooses her AP U.S. History and Honors Physics teachers.

      WhyHarvard asks for two teachers in different subjects who know you well. She gives each one a few notes on her work in their class: her History Day drafts, and the physics grade she raised from a B-plus to an A-minus. The evidence 

The rest of Willa’s grade 11

  1. Grade 11 · The peak year

    Also this year

    • Tests. She takes the October PSAT at school, paid for by her district, for National Merit consideration. She takes her first SAT at school in March and two AP exams in May.
    • The week. She spends about eight hours on activities outside class during History Day season, a little above the typical five.
    • Senior courses. In February she chooses AP English Literature, AP U.S. Government, AP Calculus AB, and Spanish V Honors.
    • Girls State. In March she asks her counselor how her town chooses its Girls State delegates, and applies. This account doesn't say whether she's chosen.
    • Skipped. She gives up her library shift in September, skips a third AP, and does not apply to the Princeton Summer Journalism Program after checking its income, free or reduced-price school-meal, and test-fee-waiver routes.

Our view: what to take from Willa, an illustrative studentWilla's story does not predict an admissions result. Learn from her choice to do well in two demanding courses instead of struggling with four, and to ask early for letters from teachers who watched her improve.

Willa in grade 9Willa in grade 10Follow Willa into grade 12 →

If your school offers few advanced coursesMeet Owen: electronics and codeHis school offers three APs. He takes two college English courses there and enters his greenhouse controller in the regional science fair.An illustrative student

His school offers three APs. He takes two college English courses there and enters his greenhouse controller in the regional science fair.

One parent is a teacher, and the other owns the town's farm-supply store. Their income rises and falls with the farm economy.

What to avoidTreating the college courses as easy credit.

An illustrative exampleOwen’s grade 11, at a glance

Classes (advanced ones in green)

  • AP U.S. History
  • English Composition I and II (college courses taught at school)
  • Honors Precalculus
  • Physics
  • Spanish III

A school week: about 10 hours a week

  • Family store4 h
  • Science Olympiad3.5 h
  • Science fair project2.5 h
  • $300 or sothis school year: the PSAT, one AP exam, a college textbook, fair parts, and Science Olympiad
  • 30 h a weekin summer, as an electrician's helper

  1. Grade 11 · The peak year

    Three choices, and why, Owen

    • He takes two college English courses at school. They are English Composition I and II.

      WhyThey're his school's most demanding English courses, and the state pays the tuition. His grades become part of a college transcript he'll report later, so he takes the courses as seriously as an AP. The evidence 

    • He takes his greenhouse controller to the regional science fair in February. His physics teacher sponsors the project.

      WhyTo reach the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), he must qualify through an affiliated fair. The evidence 

    • In April, he asks his physics and English teachers for letters. His physics teacher also coaches Science Olympiad.

      WhyMIT recommends one math or science teacher and one in the humanities. His English teacher taught him in grade 10 and now teaches his college course, so she has seen him improve from a B-minus. The evidence 

The rest of Owen’s grade 11

  1. Grade 11 · The peak year

    Also this year

    • Tests. He takes the October junior-year PSAT, a practice SAT used for National Merit selection, on a school laptop for $18. He takes the ACT at school in spring, paid for by his state, and the AP U.S. History exam in May.
    • The week. He continues Science Olympiad for a third year and works at the store for four hours on Saturdays. He spends about ten hours on activities outside class, above the typical five.
    • Senior courses. In March he chooses AP Calculus AB, AP English Literature, and a third college course online, General Physics I.
    • Summer. He works about 30 paid hours a week helping a local electrician, with no live electrical work or tasks federal rules bar under 18. He applies to MITES Summer, MIT's Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science program. It is free except for travel, and travel help is available. His story does not say whether he gets in.

Our view: what to take from Owen, an illustrative studentColleges judge Owen's courses against what his small school offers. Learn from how seriously he takes his college courses and how he develops a project for the regional fair.

Owen in grade 9Owen in grade 10Follow Owen into grade 12 →

If money is tight, or you workMeet Quinn: leaning toward businessShe trains new restaurant staff, keeps the business club's books, and applies to two free junior programs.An illustrative student

She trains new restaurant staff, keeps the business club's books, and applies to two free junior programs.

Neither parent attended college. Household income is about $48,000 for a family of four.

What to avoidAssuming the free programs for juniors aren't meant for her.

An illustrative exampleQuinn’s grade 11, at a glance

Classes (advanced ones in green)

  • AP English Language
  • AP U.S. History
  • Honors Algebra II
  • Physics
  • Spanish III
  • Accounting II

A school week: about 18 hours a week

  • Restaurant10 h
  • Caring for her brother6 h
  • Business club2 h
  • $130 or sothis school year: two AP exams after the fee reduction, and club dues
  • $0for her SATs, with the fee waiver

  1. Grade 11 · The peak year

    Three choices, and why, Quinn

    • She asks her counselor for an SAT fee waiver in September. She takes her first SAT in spring.

      WhyIt covers two SATs, unlimited score reports, and application fees at participating colleges. The evidence 

    • She applies to LEDA Scholars in the fall. LEDA stands for Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America. Its first deadline is in December.

      WhyLEDA offers five free weeks at Princeton and Yale for public-school juniors whose families earn $90,000 or less. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and have a grade-point average of at least 3.5 without extra points for advanced courses. The evidence 

    • In March, she asks two teachers for letters. She gives her AP English Language and Honors Algebra II teachers a page of dated notes each.

      WhyThe Common App's student questionnaire for teacher recommendations asks about a project you're proud of from their class. Her notes answer it. The evidence 

The rest of Quinn’s grade 11

  1. Grade 11 · The peak year

    Also this year

    • Tests. She takes the October junior-year PSAT, a practice SAT used for National Merit selection, then her first SAT in spring for free with the waiver. Her two AP exams in May cost $53 each after the fee reduction. She attends her algebra teacher's free Wednesday lunchtime SAT math sessions.
    • Activities. She keeps the business club's books as treasurer and competes in its Accounting event at the state conference. She trains new weekend staff at the restaurant and cares for her brother on Tuesdays and Thursdays. These take about 18 hours outside class, well above the typical five.
    • College costs. In January the family reruns three net price calculators with last year's income.
    • Spring application and summer plan. She also applies for free to QuestBridge's College Prep Scholars, which helps juniors from lower-income families prepare for college and may offer summer scholarships. Her story does not say whether she gets in. She will work at the restaurant either way.
    • Skipped. She decides against a third AP and will finish high school with five in total.

Our view: what to take from Quinn, an illustrative studentFee waivers and free programs are made for students like Quinn. Ask for them early, and record the hours you spend working and caring for family.

Quinn in grade 9Quinn in grade 10Follow Quinn into grade 12 →

If none of these students sounds like you, the rest of this page still applies.

In these stories, each student's job follows the federal hour limits for their age. They get their state work permit through school, and a parent reads every application.

Contests and projects

Aim for the top round this spring, so the result is in hand when you apply.

See your field's 2026–27 dates below.

In our viewReaching a national round shows more than collecting school awards. Pick one field and train for its top round.

MathAim for the AIME math exam in February, then the USAMO national olympiad in March.
  1. AMC 12The American Mathematics Competition 12 has two dates: November 5 (AMC 12A) and November 13 (AMC 12B), 2026.
  2. AIMEThe American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) is February 5 or 6, 2027, at a testing center, for students scoring 85 or more on the AMC 12.
  3. USAMOThe USA Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO) runs March 20–21, 2027. More than 400 students are invited across the senior and junior olympiads, mostly on their AIME scores.
  4. MOPThe Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP) is a summer training camp, by invitation.
The top
The USAMO is the national olympiad. MOP, by invitation, is where the U.S. team trains.
This year
As a junior, you take the AMC 12, which leads to the USAMO. The American Mathematics Competition 10 (AMC 10) and the USA Junior Mathematical Olympiad (USAJMO) are for grade 10 and below.
Every week
Three to four hours on past AIME problems, timed, then the solutions.
Cost
The AIME costs $85 plus tax, with financial help available.

Our viewTrain for the AIME. Past papers are free, and you don't need a paid course to start.

The evidence
Computer scienceReach Gold this season. Platinum is the top division.
  1. BronzeBronze is the starting division in the USA Computing Olympiad (USACO) programming contests.
  2. SilverMove up by score in online contests.
  3. GoldThe division to aim for this season.
  4. PlatinumThe top division. To move up from Gold, you need a score that USACO certifies.
The season
USACO hasn't posted its 2026–27 dates. Last season, the contests ran from January to March.
The top
Platinum is the top division. About two dozen finalists go to the training camp, and four make the U.S. team for the International Olympiad in Informatics.
This year
Reach Gold, and take every contest in the season.
Every week
About four hours, one past problem at a time.
Also
Build one project that someone at your school actually uses.
Cost
Free.

Our viewPair the contest with a project people use. Together they show skill and judgment.

The evidence
Science olympiadsNational rounds run from March to June.
  1. Biology routeTake the USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) open exam on February 3, 2027, then aim for the semifinal on March 2.
  2. Chemistry routeTake a local U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO) exam in March, then aim for the national exam in April.
  3. Physics routeThe F=ma qualifying exam leads to the U.S. Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) for about 400 top scorers. In 2026, they were in February and April.
  4. The finalsUSABO's 20 finalists train June 20–30, 2027, and the top 20 in chemistry go to a study camp. That's where the U.S. teams are picked.
The top
A national final or camp, where the U.S. teams are chosen.
This year
Ask your science teacher how your school signs up and who will supervise the exam. USABO student sign-up closes November 22, 2026. For chemistry, you sign up through your local American Chemical Society section.
Every week
Three hours on past exams in your one subject.
Also
Science Olympiad is a team competition. Its national tournament is May 14–15, 2027, at Ohio State, for state-winning teams.

Our viewPrepare for the national round in one subject. That beats trying all three once.

The evidence

The training hours and steps are our advice. Progress and awards are earned, not promised.

Research and science fairsAim for your regional fair, then the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in May.
  1. Your first fairYour school or regional fair, in winter. Registration and project approval come months earlier.
  2. The qualifying fairA regional or state fair linked to ISEF. They all finish by April 12, 2027.
  3. ISEFMay 8–14, 2027, in Los Angeles.
  4. Next fallThe Regeneron Science Talent Search, a contest for seniors.
The top
Reaching ISEF. In grade 12, the Regeneron Science Talent Search names 300 scholars each January.
This year
Find your regional fair's dates now, and get your project approved before you start.
Every week
Three hours on the project, with your mentor.
Also
The Talent Search asks for an individual research report of up to 20 pages, plus the title page, abstract, and bibliography. Research from any high school year can qualify.

Our viewWrite the project up as you go. Use this year's research for next fall's Talent Search entry.

The evidence

The training hours and steps are our advice. Progress and awards are earned, not promised.

Writing and historyBecome an editor, and write a paper for The Concord Review.
  1. The school paperAn editor's role.
  2. National History DayThe contest run by your National History Day organizer in spring, then the national contest on June 13–17, 2027, at the University of Maryland.
  3. The Concord ReviewA long history paper, usually 5,000 words or more. Its issue deadlines are February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1 each year.
  4. The Scholastic AwardsSingle pieces now, and a portfolio in your last year of high school.
The top
Publication in The Concord Review, which publishes about 5% of the papers it receives, or a Scholastic national medal.
This year
Finish one long research paper, and revise it until it's ready to submit.
Every week
Write something, even a page.

Our viewOne paper revised until it's publishable says more than five contest entries.

The evidence
Debate and speechAim for districts, then the NSDA national speech and debate tournament in June.
  1. Your eventEarn National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) competition points. To enter a district tournament, you need at least the Merit degree, the association's minimum qualifying level.
  2. Your district tournamentOn dates your district sets.
  3. NSDA NationalsJune 13–18, 2027, in Phoenix.
  4. Or the national circuitEarn qualifying results, called bids, toward the Tournament of Champions.
The top
Qualifying for NSDA Nationals, or earning bids to the Tournament of Champions.
This year
Ask your coach when your district tournament is, and what it takes to qualify.
Every week
Three to five hours of research and practice rounds.

Our viewStay in one event and aim to compete at a higher level after three years of practice.

The evidence
BusinessAim for your state conference, then DECA's business competitions in April or Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) in June.
  1. Your chapterYour school club's events.
  2. Your state conferenceTrain for your organization's qualifying events.
  3. DECA routeDECA's international conference: April 17–20, 2027, in Anaheim.
  4. Or the FBLA routeFBLA's national conference: June 23–26, 2027, in Columbus, Ohio.
The top
Qualifying for DECA's international or FBLA's national conference, or a business with real customers and revenue.
This year
Pick one event and train for your state conference.
Every week
Two to three hours preparing for your event or working on your business.

Our viewA role with real duties, like keeping your club's accounts, counts as much as a trophy. A job counts too.

The evidence
The artsFinish the work your portfolio or audition needs next fall.
  1. Scholastic AwardsIndividual works this winter.
  2. Your best piecesFinish your best pieces this school year.
  3. Next fallCollege recordings and portfolios are due in the fall. For this year's seniors, Michigan's music deadline is December 1, 2026, and Oberlin's screening deadlines are November 4 and December 4.
  4. Also: YoungArtsOpen to students in grades 10 to 12. The 2027 application closed on October 6, 2026.
The top
A YoungArts award, a Scholastic national medal, or a place in an all-state ensemble.
This year
With your teacher, choose your audition pieces or portfolio work, and finish them this school year.

Our viewRecord or photograph your work when it's ready, not on deadline day.

The evidence
SportsFor Division I college sports, finish ten approved academic course credits before grade 12.
  1. June 15 after grade 10Most Division I coaches may call and message you.
  2. August 1 before grade 11Coaches may meet you off campus, and many sports allow official visits. Dates vary by sport.
  3. Before grade 12Finish ten of the sixteen approved academic course credits you need, including seven in English, math, or science.
  4. The NCAA Eligibility CenterRegister with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Eligibility Center, and send your transcripts.
The top
A college coach's interest, and an official visit.
This year
Before grade 12 starts, check your courses against your school's NCAA list with your counselor. Courses you take later won't count toward the first ten credits.
Also
The Ivy League gives no athletic scholarships. Its aid is based on financial need.

Our viewKeep your grades strong, and check the approved course list this spring.

The evidence
Not sure yetGo as far as you can in the activity you've kept longest.
This year
Pick the activity you've stuck with longest and take it further: a leadership role, a finished piece, or a competition.

Our viewDepth in one thing this year beats a long list.

The evidence

    The training hours and steps are our advice. Progress and awards are earned, not promised.

    What colleges will read

    Colleges will read your courses, test scores, and letters.

    Each card says who to ask.

    Our viewShort on time? Read each card's green box first.

    Your coursesChoose demanding senior courses this spring. Yale wants your senior year to be "especially challenging."

    Ask when senior course selection opens. Colleges see your planned courses when you apply.

    Stanford suggests about five academic courses each semester, senior year included. Stanford and Yale also read your first-semester senior grades.

    Colleges judge your courses against what your school offers. How that works, on Grade 10 →

    Who to askAsk your counselor when course requests and changes are due.

    “Ensure that your senior year program is especially challenging.”

    Yale, on course selection

    “Take approximately five academic courses each semester, including during your final year.”

    Stanford, on academic preparation

    Our viewTake your school's most demanding senior courses that you can do well in. Don't drop a core subject to lighten the year.

    What three illustrative students did

    • Willa. She chooses AP English Literature, AP U.S. Government, AP Calculus AB, and Spanish V Honors.
    • Owen. He chooses AP Calculus AB, AP English Literature, and a third college course, General Physics I online.
    • Quinn. She chooses AP English Literature, AP Statistics, and Spanish IV, her school's top level.

    Also in this card

    A college course in high schoolA college course stays on your college transcript. Take it as seriously as an AP.

    Grades and withdrawals stay on that transcript, so check the deadline to leave without a withdrawal on your record. Some states, like Minnesota, pay the tuition when the course is taught at your high school.

    All three cards

    The evidence, and what it doesn’t show
    TestsPlan on the SAT or ACT. Princeton and Columbia will require one again, starting with fall 2028.

    MIT, Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Brown, Dartmouth, and the University of Pennsylvania require scores. Princeton and Columbia follow in fall 2028.

    This October's PSAT, a practice SAT, counts for National Merit scholarships. Semifinalists qualify by state. For last year's juniors, the required selection-index score ranged from 208 in five states to 223 in New Jersey.

    On national ACT test dates, science is optional. Your overall score comes from English, math, and reading. Try a free practice test of each before you choose. MIT, Brown, Yale, and Dartmouth take your best section scores across test dates. MIT and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) also ask to see every official SAT or ACT test you took.

    Who to askAsk your counselor about the PSAT, testing at school, and fee waivers.

    1. October 2026The PSAT at school, October 1–30. This one counts for National Merit.
    2. Spring 2027A first SAT (March 6, May 1, or June 5) or ACT (February 27, April 10, or June 12).
    3. Fall 2027A second try, if you need one.
    The test dates come from College Board and ACT. The sequence is our advice.

    Our viewTake the SAT or ACT when you feel ready. Most students start in grade 11. Use free practice tests first, and plan on two tries.

    What three illustrative students did

    • Willa. She takes the October PSAT, paid for by her district, and her first SAT at school in March.
    • Owen. He takes the October PSAT on a school laptop and the ACT at school in spring, paid for by his state.
    • Quinn. She takes the October PSAT and her first SAT in spring, free with her fee waiver.

    Also in this card

    If money is tightAsk your counselor for the SAT fee waiver. It also covers application fees.

    Low-income juniors and seniors can get two free SATs, free score reports, and waived application fees at colleges that take part. The ACT offers up to two waivers too.

    If you might be a National Merit FinalistSome universities give Finalists full tuition if you list them first.

    The University of Alabama currently covers tuition for up to five years, the University of Texas at Dallas for up to eight semesters, and the University of Oklahoma for five years. You have to be admitted and name the school as your first choice with National Merit by its deadline.

    What paid coaching adds, on Grade 10 →

    All three cards

    The evidence, and what it doesn’t show

    What it doesn’t show: Princeton and Columbia specify fall 2028. Check the other colleges' policies for your application year. Dartmouth allows alternatives for students at schools outside the U.S. The University of Texas at Austin also accepts the Classic Learning Test. Some colleges make exceptions when applicants cannot access a test. For an ACT taken at school, the state or district can decide whether to include science. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation sets new cutoffs each year. Tuition awards have additional eligibility and renewal rules, and their 2028 terms are not announced. Check whether you qualify for a fee waiver. Taking two tests is our advice, not a college limit.

    LettersAsk two teachers from different subjects this spring. MIT suggests one in math or science and one in the humanities.

    Each college sets its own rules for which teachers can write for you.

    Some teachers limit how many letters they write, so ask in person this spring. Then give each one a page of notes: two or three things you did in their class, with dates.

    Who to askAsk two teachers and your counselor, who sends a school report and often a letter of their own.

    Choose teachers who meet each college's rules.
    CollegeWhat it asks
    MITTwo teachers. It recommends one in math or science and one in the humanities, social sciences, or a language
    CaltechOne math or science teacher and one humanities or social science teacher, from your last two years
    HarvardTwo teachers in different academic subjects; ideally from your last two years
    PrincetonTwo teachers in different academic areas, from higher-level courses
    StanfordTwo academic teachers, ideally from grade 11 or 12
    University of CaliforniaNo letters when you apply
    Table view
    CollegeWhat it asks
    MITTwo teachers. It recommends one in math or science and one in the humanities, social sciences, or a language
    CaltechOne math or science teacher and one humanities or social science teacher, from your last two years
    HarvardTwo teachers in different academic subjects; ideally from your last two years
    PrincetonTwo teachers in different academic areas, from higher-level courses
    StanfordTwo academic teachers, ideally from grade 11 or 12
    University of CaliforniaNo letters when you apply

    Sources: each college's recommendation requirements, linked in the evidence below.

    Our viewPick teachers who watched you improve, not only the ones who gave you an A. Give them facts, never a draft. The letter is theirs to write.

    What three illustrative students did

    • Willa. In May, she asks her AP U.S. History and Honors Physics teachers for letters and gives them notes from each class.
    • Owen. In April, he asks his physics teacher, who coaches his Science Olympiad team, and his English teacher for letters.
    • Quinn. In March, she asks her AP English Language and Honors Algebra II teachers for letters, giving each a page of dated notes.

    Grade 10: choosing teachers for recommendations

    All three cards

    The evidence, and what it doesn’t show

    What it doesn’t show: These college requirements and school examples do not describe one national process. Stanford accepts a letter from a teacher of an advanced grade 10 course. Caltech makes an exception to its teacher-subject rule for some international curricula. The University of California can request letters later. Students complete the Common App questionnaire. Teachers use a separate evaluation form.

    Your college list

    Look up what each college says it weighs.

    Many colleges rate about 18 admission factors, from very important to not considered, in their free yearly Common Data Set.

    The University of California San Diego doesn't consider test scores or letters. Princeton rates both very important.
    FactorPrincetonLehighUC San Diego
    Your coursesVery importantVery importantVery important
    GradesVery importantVery importantVery important
    Test scoresVery importantImportantNot considered
    EssayVery importantImportantVery important
    LettersVery importantImportantNot considered
    ActivitiesVery importantImportantImportant
    CharacterVery importantImportantImportant
    InterestNot consideredImportantNot considered

    From each college's 2025–26 Common Data Set. To find any college's table, search its name and "Common Data Set", then look for section C7.
    Princeton · Lehigh · UC San Diego

    Interest means visits and other signs that you want to attend. Princeton, Stanford, and UC San Diego don't consider it. Lehigh and Rochester rate it important.

    Our viewChoose eight to twelve colleges you'd enjoy and your family can afford. Read each one's table before planning visits.

    Scholarships for achievement and school nominationsLook beyond the Ivy League for scholarships based on achievement. Check each award’s deadline.

    All eight Ivy League colleges and MIT award aid only for financial need. Stanford's only exception is athletic aid. Honors colleges at major state universities, like Arizona State's Barrett and Penn State's Schreyer, often require a separate application.

    Some awards require your school to nominate you. Ask your counselor this spring which awards your school can nominate you for.

    This year's examples are for 2027 entry.

    AwardDeadline or timingHow to be consideredWhat it covers
    Morehead-Cain (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)October 1, 2026School nomination; North Carolina students can self-nominate. Other routes depend on eligibility.Tuition, room, board, and books
    Jefferson Scholarship (University of Virginia)December 1, 2026School nominationThe full cost
    Georgia Tech StampsNovember 2, 2026, for non-Georgia studentsAutomatic consideration with an early applicationA full scholarship
    Ohio State Maximus, Provost, and TrusteesNovember 1, 2026Automatic consideration$1,000 to $3,000 a year
    Penn State SchreyerNovember 15The honors application$5,300 a year
    University of Vermont Green and GoldEnd of junior yearNomination by an eligible Vermont schoolFull in-state tuition

    Next year's dates will be set for 2028 entry. Ask your counselor in the spring which awards your school can nominate you for.

    With a parent, use each college's calculator to estimate what your family would pay after aid, its net price. The College Scorecard shows average net prices by family income where data are available. Net price calculators, on Grade 10 →

    What three illustrative students put on their lists

    What three illustrative students did

    • Willa. She lists her state's main public university and its honors college, two regional public universities, three private colleges with published aid, and two of the most selective colleges.
    • Owen. He lists his state's main public university and its honors college, a regional public university, two private colleges with published aid, and a few highly selective colleges. His family asks each aid office how it assesses a family business.
    • Quinn. She lists her state's main public university, a regional public university, and several selective private colleges whose aid pages say families at her income pay nothing.
    The evidence, and what it doesn’t show

    What it doesn’t show: Each college sets these ratings and can change them each year. They do not show exactly how it makes decisions, assign numerical weights, or promise unchanged rules for 2028. An interest rating does not say which visits or events count. The merit-aid statements describe scholarships from the colleges themselves, not outside organizations. Award rules and dates shown are for 2027 entry, not 2028. Only eligible North Carolina students can nominate themselves for Morehead-Cain. The University of Vermont award has Vermont eligibility rules. Schreyer's page lists $5,300, while Penn State's central page lists $5,000. Confirm awards for your year. College Scorecard prices are past averages for groups of students, with some colleges' data missing. They are not your personal aid offer.

    The summer before grade 12

    Apply this winter for next summer.

    Many free programs for juniors have December–February deadlines. Some also need your school to nominate you.

    Examples, not endorsements. No family needs to pay for a summer program.

    Math and science

    MIT logoMITES Summer: MIT Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and ScienceDeadline: Not posted yetFreeJuniors only

    • MITES Summer

      MIT

      Take five demanding courses, build projects, and present your work at a final symposium.

      Who
      Current juniors or equivalent, including homeschooled students. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency with a current green card is required.
      When
      Six residential weeks. The 2027 session dates are not posted yet.
      Cost
      Instruction, housing, and meals are covered. Families normally pay for travel, but travel scholarships are available.
      Due
      The usual deadline is February 1 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time, with recommendations due February 15. MITES has not yet confirmed these dates for 2027. Applications normally open in November.

      Official details: Dates and application FAQ; Funding and travel help.

    Carnegie Mellon University logoSummer Academy for Math and Science (Carnegie Mellon)Deadline: February 1, 2027FreeJuniors only

    • Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

      Carnegie Mellon University

      Study math and science, work on a faculty-supported project, and prepare for college with other students.

      Who
      Current juniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, age 16 or older on June 26, 2027. You must provide financial documents. The program does not publish a fixed income limit.
      When
      Six residential weeks, with virtual preparation and continuing support. The program still lists its 2026 residential dates and has not confirmed exact dates for 2027.
      Cost
      The program is fully funded. Families pay for travel to and from Pittsburgh.
      Due
      February 1, 2027. Decisions are released April 1, 2027.

    Research

    MIT logoResearch Science Institute (MIT)Deadline: December 11, 2026 (U.S.)FreeJuniors only

    • Research Science Institute (RSI)

      MIT, through the Center for Excellence in Education

      Combine advanced classes with a mentored research project, then present your findings in writing and in person.

      Who
      Students entering their final high-school year can apply. Current seniors cannot. U.S. citizens and permanent residents apply directly. International students follow their country's separate selection process.
      When
      Six residential weeks. Exact 2027 session dates are not posted yet.
      Cost
      Instruction, housing, and meals are covered. The $75 application fee may be waived for demonstrated financial need. Ask the Center for Excellence in Education about a waiver and travel costs.
      Due
      The U.S. application is due December 11, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. International deadlines vary by country.

      Official details: Program and funding; Application fee and waivers.

    Summer Science ProgramDeadline: February 2027 for U.S. students (exact day not posted yet)Aid availableJuniors only

    • Summer Science Program (SSP)

      SSP International, at its host universities

      Spend five weeks working with a small team on a research question in one of the program's science fields.

      Who
      Only current juniors who will be 15 to 18 throughout the program can apply, including international students. Each research field requires certain courses, completed for credit and a grade before the program. Self-study does not count.
      When
      Five residential weeks, starting in mid-June 2027. Exact session dates are not posted yet.
      Cost
      The 2026 fee was $11,800. The program expects to announce its 2027 fee in December 2026. Your ability to pay does not affect admission. Aid covers the financial need the program calculates and can include travel, including for international students. Applying is free.
      Due
      Applications open in December 2026. Deadlines are expected in January 2027 for international applicants and February 2027 for U.S. citizens or permanent residents attending U.S. schools. Exact days are not posted yet.

      Official details: Application calendar; Fees and financial aid.

    Stony Brook University logoSimons Summer Research Program (Stony Brook)Deadline: Not posted yetSchool nominationJuniors only

    • Simons Summer Research Program

      Stony Brook University

      Join a faculty research team and finish with a research abstract and poster.

      Who
      Current juniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, age 16 or older at the start. Your school must nominate you and may nominate at most two students.
      When
      About six weeks, commuting or living on campus. The 2027 session dates are not posted yet.
      Cost
      There is no tuition charge. Students pay for commuting and meals or for living on campus. They receive a stipend, a payment whose amount is not published.
      Due
      The 2027 deadline is not posted yet. Applications are expected to open in late November 2026. The February 5 deadline still on the program's questions page is for 2026.

      Official details: Eligibility, nomination, and costs; Research and stipend.

    Humanities and writing

    Princeton University logoPrinceton Summer Journalism ProgramDeadline: January 25, 2027FreeJuniors only

    • Princeton Summer Journalism Program

      Princeton University

      Report stories, learn from journalists, and work with a college adviser through senior year.

      Who
      Full-time juniors with a permanent U.S. address can apply. They normally need a grade-point average of 3.5 without extra points for advanced courses. You may qualify through family income of $65,000 or less, eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals, or an SAT or ACT fee waiver. The program considers individual circumstances. Students abroad and holders of visitor (B), student (F or M), or exchange-visitor (J) visas cannot apply.
      When
      Online work in June and July, then ten residential days in late July or early August 2027. Exact residential dates are not posted yet.
      Cost
      The residential program, including travel, housing, meals, and assignment equipment, is free. Virtual technology is not automatically provided.
      Due
      For the 2027–28 program, the deadline is January 25, 2027, the last Monday in January under Princeton's published rule. Applications open in mid-November 2026.

      Official details: Application timetable; 2027 summer and covered costs.

    University of Iowa logoIowa Young Writers' StudioDeadline: February 7, 2027Aid available

    • Iowa Young Writers' Studio

      University of Iowa

      Develop your creative writing through workshops, close reading, and conversations with writers and peers.

      Who
      Students currently in grades 10 to 12 can apply, including international students. The program considers your writing sample, statement, and recommendation.
      When
      Two residential weeks: June 13–26 or July 11–24, 2027.
      Cost
      $2,500 for 2027, including housing and meals, plus travel. The $10 application reading fee can be waived. Full and partial need-based grants are available after acceptance.
      Due
      Applications open January 25 and close February 7, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. Recommendations are due February 12, 2027.

      Official details: Fees and aid.

    Leadership and public service

    LEDA Scholars (Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America)Deadline: December 9, 2026 (first part)FreeJuniors only

    • LEDA Scholars

      Princeton University and Yale University

      Study leadership and academic writing, prepare for tests, and work on college applications with continuing support.

      Who
      U.S. public-school juniors graduating in 2028 can apply if they are citizens or permanent residents, their household income is $90,000 or less, and their grade-point average is at least 3.5 without extra points for advanced courses. The program also considers family assets. Some students at private schools with low tuition may qualify.
      When
      Five residential weeks in summer 2027. Exact session dates are not posted yet.
      Cost
      The institute is free. Check individual travel arrangements with LEDA.
      Due
      The first part is due December 9, 2026. Applications opened September 9, 2026. The program has not confirmed deadlines for the later stages. The dates shown are from an older year.
    Girls State and Boys StateDeadline: Set by your state

    • Girls State and Boys State

      American Legion Auxiliary and American Legion state programs

      Run a mock state government, take part in elections, and practice making decisions with other students.

      Who
      Most participants are finishing junior year. Local organizers set selection, eligibility, and sponsorship rules. Ask your counselor or local American Legion or Auxiliary branch how to apply in your state.
      When
      About one week. In 2027, Alabama Girls State runs June 6–11, and Colorado Boys State runs June 6–12. Other states have their own dates.
      Cost
      Sponsors often cover registration, but confirm your state's arrangements and travel costs. Alabama lists $225, usually paid by a sponsor, and Colorado lists $250 per delegate.
      Due
      No national deadline. Alabama registration opens in February 2027. Colorado registration runs November 1, 2026–May 1, 2027. Your school's selection may happen earlier.

      Official details: Boys State selection; Alabama Girls State; Colorado Boys State.

    QuestBridge College Prep ScholarsDeadline: Not posted yetFreeJuniors only

    Also for juniors: QuestBridge's College Prep Scholars, a free program that helps students from lower-income families prepare for college and may offer summer scholarships.

    Business

    University of Texas at Austin logoMcCombs Future Executive Academy (University of Texas at Austin)Deadline: February 1, 2027FreeTexas high schools

    • McCombs Future Executive Academy (for Texas high schools)

      University of Texas at Austin

      Attend business workshops, compete in a team challenge to solve a business problem, and meet business mentors and current students.

      Who
      Students in grades 10 and 11 at Texas high schools can apply. The program encourages first-generation college students and those facing financial barriers.
      When
      Six residential days: June 6–11, 2027.
      Cost
      Instruction, housing, and meals are free. Families arrange and pay for travel to and from Austin.
      Due
      Applications are due February 1, 2027, at 11:59 p.m., and supporting materials on February 8. Check the program's site for when the form opens.
    Indiana University logoKelley Women's Leadership Institute (Indiana University)Deadline: March 19, 2027One day

    • Kelley Women's Leadership Institute (one day)

      Indiana University Bloomington

      Learn from business faculty and solve a business problem as a team, focusing on women's leadership in business.

      Who
      Students entering grades 11 or 12 with an overall grade-point average of at least 3.5 can apply. The program welcomes eligible students of any gender from around the world.
      When
      One day, nonresidential: June 25, July 9, July 16, or July 30, 2027.
      Cost
      There is no registration fee, and breakfast and lunch are provided. Families pay travel, any overnight accommodation, and personal expenses.
      Due
      Applications open January 4, 2027, and close March 19, 2027.

    Arts

    California State Summer School for the ArtsDeadline: February 28, 2027Aid for Californians

    • California State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA)

      California State Summer School for the Arts

      Spend four weeks developing your art. The program selects students through creative assignments.

      Who
      Students in grades 8 to 12 can apply. Most places are for California residents, with up to twenty for students from other states or countries. CSSSA cannot sponsor student visas.
      When
      The four-week residential program starts with registration on July 3, 2027. Classes begin July 5, and graduation is July 31. Confirm the host campus with the program.
      Cost
      The 2027 tuition is not posted yet. CSSSA expects to publish it by November 1, 2026. Aid based on financial need is for California residents. Eligible Californians facing financial hardship can have the $20 application fee waived. Payments through CSSSA's payment system incur a 2.99% fee, except for application fees. Students who received a scholarship before cannot receive another.
      Due
      Applications open November 1, 2026. Applications and financial-aid requests are due February 28, 2027, at 6 p.m. Pacific Time.

      Official details: Eligibility and FAQ; Tuition and additional fees; Financial aid.

    Carnegie Hall logoNYO Jazz (Carnegie Hall's youth jazz ensemble)Deadline: January 18, 2027Free

    • NYO Jazz

      Carnegie Hall; 2027 training at the University of Maryland, College Park

      Rehearse with leading jazz musicians, perform at Carnegie Hall, and tour with the ensemble.

      Who
      U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in high school in 2026–27 can apply, not just juniors. The application requires ages 16 to 19 on July 1, 2027, but the questions page uses June 30. Ask the program if your birthday falls on either date and affects your eligibility.
      When
      About three to four weeks in early July to early August 2027, including two weeks of residential training. Exact dates are not posted yet.
      Cost
      Tuition, program housing, meals, and tour costs are funded. There is a $30 application fee, with need-based waivers. Families normally pay for travel to and from the program and for passports. Travel help is available for families who need it.
      Due
      Application: January 18, 2027. Recommendations: February 1. Fee-waiver requests: January 1, 2027.

      Official details: FAQ and financial support.

    Telluride's free summer seminars won't run in 2027, though many lists still show them.

    Our viewSummer programs don't help an application directly. Apply to selective free ones for challenging work and strong classmates. A job or your own project can also make a worthwhile summer.

    Use the summer to draft two things.

    Your activities list.

    Up to ten activities, with 150 characters for each to say what you did.

    One activities entry, filled in
    One activities entryAn illustrative student
    Position / leadership15 of 50 characters
    Features Editor
    Organization20 of 100 characters
    The school newspaper
    Description107 of 150 characters
    Assign and edit six writers' features; wrote 15 bylined stories; started a monthly series on local history.

    You can list up to ten activities, with 50 characters for your role and 100 for the organization. Next year's editors, captains, and officers are often chosen this spring, so ask now how they're picked.

    What three illustrative students did

    • Willa. She edits the school paper's features and writes a second History Day paper.
    • Owen. He continues Science Olympiad for a third year, works at the store, and enters his controller in a science fair.
    • Quinn. She trains new restaurant staff, cares for her brother in the afternoons, and serves as business club treasurer.

    MIT reads up to four activities and Lafayette up to six. A job is an activity. Grade 10 →

    The evidence, and what it doesn’t show

    What it doesn’t show: These are the fields in Common App's current public guides, published in 2025. Check the 2027–28 application when it opens. Ten is the maximum, not a target. Willa's entry is illustrative and does not predict an outcome.

    Your first essay.

    The Common App opens each year on August 1. The personal essay can be up to 650 words.

    How the three students plan for summer

    What three illustrative students did

    • Willa. She returns to her camp job and applies to Girls State.
    • Owen. He takes a paid job helping an electrician and applies to MITES Summer.
    • Quinn. She applies to LEDA and QuestBridge's College Prep Scholars and works at the restaurant either way.

    If you’re under 18: ask a parent or guardian to review every application. Before paying, ask a residential program for its written supervision policy, staff background checks, and refund terms. For travel, ask a parent or guardian to go with you or arrange a trusted adult. Before a job starts, check your state’s work-hour rules and whether it requires a work permit.

    The evidence, and what it doesn’t show

    What it doesn’t show: Check each program card for eligibility, application fees, and travel funding. MITES lists February 1 without a year. Simons, the Summer Science Program, and QuestBridge have not posted exact 2027 deadlines. Princeton's journalism deadline falls on January 25, 2027, under its last-Monday rule. Your Common App account carries over, but some college-specific answers may not be saved, and the 2027–28 questions may change. Federal rules prohibit hazardous work under 18, and state rules can be stricter.

    The year

    Your grade 11 year, month by month.

    Contest and test dates are for 2026–27. School dates vary, so check yours.

    Many summer program deadlines fall between December and March.

    • Tests
    • Contests
    • Letters
    • Courses
    • Summer programs
    • Drafts

    1. September

      • Meet your counselor, course planning
      • Ask about fee waivers, a test

    2. October

      • PSAT, a test

    3. November

      • AMC 12 math, a contest
      • USABO biology sign-up, a contest

    4. December

      • LEDA, a summer program
      • Research Science Institute, a summer program

    5. January

      • Princeton journalism, a summer program
      • Senior course requests, course planning

    6. February

      • AIME math exam, a contest
      • Science fairs, a contest
      • Many summer deadlines, a summer program

    7. March

      • USAMO math olympiad, a contest
      • SAT, a test
      • Ask for first recommendation, a recommendation letter

    8. April

      • DECA business, a contest
      • National chemistry olympiad, a contest
      • ACT, a test

    9. May

      • AP exams, a test
      • ISEF science fair, a contest
      • Ask for second recommendation, a recommendation letter

    10. June

      • NSDA speech and debate Nationals, a contest
      • Girls State and Boys State, a summer program

    11. July and August

      • Activities list, application preparation
      • First essay, application preparation
      • Common App opens August 1, application preparation
    2026–27: College Board, Mathematical Association of America. Program sources are above.
    Every date, month by month

    1. September

      Meet your counselor, the teachers you might ask for letters, and your coach. If money is tight, ask about the SAT fee waiver.

      LettersTests

    2. October

      The PSAT at school, October 1–30. This one counts for National Merit.

      Tests

    3. November

      AMC 12: November 5 or 13. USABO student sign-up closes November 22.

      Contest

    4. December

      LEDA's first deadline is December 9. The Research Science Institute application closes December 11.

      Summer

    5. January

      Ask when senior course requests open. Applications to Princeton's journalism program close on the last Monday of the month.

      CoursesSummer

    6. February

      AIME, for qualifiers: February 5 or 6. Applications to several summer programs close.

      ContestSummer

    7. March

      USAMO: March 20–21. Ask your first teacher for a letter.

      ContestLetters

    8. April

      DECA's international conference runs April 17–20. The national chemistry olympiad exam also takes place this month.

      Contest

    9. May

      AP exams: May 3–7 and 10–14. ISEF: May 8–14. Ask your second teacher before school ends.

      TestsContestLetters

    10. June

      NSDA Nationals, National History Day, and FBLA's national conference take place this month, along with Girls State and Boys State in many states.

      ContestSummer

    11. July and August

      Draft your activities list and a first essay. The Common App opens each year on August 1.

      ActivitiesSummer

    In our view

    What grade 11 doesn't need.

    SkipDo this instead
    A third or fourth SATTwo tries, then spend the time on your courses and contests. MIT and Caltech ask to see every official SAT or ACT sitting.
    Essays in the springWait for summer, when you'll have this year to write about.
    A paid program that takes anyone who paysA selective free program, a job, or your own project.
    Writing the letter for your teacherGive them a page of notes. The letter is theirs to write.
    A private counselor, if yours has this coveredIf you'd like someone beside you for part of it, here's where we come in ↓

    Sources: MIT testing; Caltech testing.

    Where we come in

    How Letrado can help in grade 11.

    Most of this advice costs nothing to follow. If you'd like help with part of it, here's where we come in.

    Comparing merit awards and aid? Financial Aid & Scholarships helps families see what each college would really cost.

    Start with a free 45-minute introduction.

    We follow it with a personalized plan by email. If your counselor already has this covered, you may not need us.

    If the student is under 18, please ask a parent or guardian to send this first message.

    Arrange your free introduction →