It is important to start planning for college in your junior year of high school. Here is a monthly task list.

January

• Make a list of colleges you are interested in attending and plan to visit each one. You may call the Admissions Office of each school to schedule a tour.
• Research expenses around the school area and calculate cost-of-living, tuition, books, room and board and miscellaneous expenses. 
• Begin searching for scholarships and grants. Make a list of scholarship deadlines and begin applying.

February

• Register to take the SAT (SAT Reasoning Test) or the ACT (American College Testing).

March

• Visit colleges and universities you're interested in and ask questions. It is important to schedule visits when classes are in session so that you may talk to students, professors and guidance counselors. By visiting different campuses, you will make an informed decision.

April

• Take the SAT or ACT

May

• Attend college and career fairs in your area. Volunteer in your community and/or school. By volunteering you will demonstrate responsibility.

Summer (June-August)

• Consider the career field you would like to study and find a related internship or job during your summer break. You may also get involved in extra curricular activities including sports. Participating in activities will make you a better candidate to colleges and universities. 
• Now that you have visited colleges and universities, consider all the costs that are associated with each school you are interested in attending. Find out the financial aid packages they offer and figure out the total cost of your attendance.
• Don't be afraid to apply to the schools of your choice. Pick a variety of schools from schools that you are sure will accept you to schools that have higher standards. Request financial aid packages and admission applications for each school.

September

• Sign up for the PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test)
• Speak to your counselor about taking challenging classes that will look good on your transcripts. Take Advanced Placement and/or college prep classes. Sometimes these classes can help you earn college credit

October

• Take the PSAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test pre-test). This will help you understand areas in which you excel and areas you need to study. 
• Talk with your school counselor about the career path you are looking to take and figure out what colleges or universities offer curriculum that fits your needs. If you are not sure what you would like to study or what career path you would like to take, ask your counselor if they offer career aptitude test to see what fits your personality.

November

• Make a list of schools you want to apply for. You should apply to at least 6-10 schools. Make sure you have admissions and financial aid application packages for each school.

December

• Pick up a study guide for the SAT and ACT. Some study guides come with computer software, tips and practice tests.

What about the high school Senior year?