Prepare for College in Middle School
Great job getting a head start on the college! The best thing you can do in middle school is to work hard in your classes, and find fun things to do outside of school that develop your interests and skills. This could mean reading, volunteering, joining an after-school program, and more!
Take Responsibility for Your Grades and Plan for High School
Take control of your education by keeping track of your grades online using StudentNet. If you go to a Philadelphia School District School ask your counselor to help you set up an account. StudentNet lets you see how you are doing in your classes and also has resources you can use to help you study.
Planning for high school is also an important part of preparing for college. Planning for high school means taking the most advanced classes you can now and thinking about what type of high school you want to attend. In Philadelphia you can attend your neighborhood high school or apply to a different type of high school. Since you are planning on going to, college consider applying to a high school that offers a variety of advanced classes.
To find information on different high schools in Philadelphia, click here.
You will have to apply to high schools in 8th grade, but your grades and test scores from 7th grade will be used on your applications.
- For more information on applying to Philadelphia School District schools, click here.
- For more information on applying to charter and private high schools, click here.
If you are interested in attending a private, or public, high school outside of Philadelphia contact A Better Chance (ABC) , 215-753-9429. They refer young people of color in grades 6-11 to public and independent schools and help students find financial aid.
Young women who are interested in attending a private high school or need financial support for college prep activities may contact the Ellis Trust, 215-735-4483. They offer scholarships to young women from single parent households to go towards high school tuition, tutoring, or other college preparation related expenses.
Take Charge of Your Learning
The Free Library of Philadelphia has an online academic prep center, The Learning Express Library, that can help you build on your academic strengths and improve in subjects you find difficult. It offers SAT and ACT preparation and resources to help you improve your math, science, reading, writing, and study skills. To access the site all you need is a library card and your library card pin number. Your parent or guardian can request a library card online, or you can visit your local branch to get one. Library cards are free!
Khan Academy is another great option to practice subjects you struggle in and jump ahead in your strong subjects. It offers free online lessons and practice on many different subjects including algebra, history and biology.
Learn More About College
Check out KnowHow2Go for more information on college and careers, and advice on what to do now to get ready.
