College Planning Timeline

Applying to college and deciding on the right school for you can be a complex process. We’ll have your back, every step of the way.

As a 9th-grader, you’ll:

Begin developing study and life skills in a rigorous and residential setting.
Become comfortable participating in discussion-based classes, like our Humanities I course, and doing collaborative work, as in our Arts Foundation course.
Be encouraged to try new things — a new world language, a new sport, and new activity — and to develop as a student.
Get to know our college counseling team during class meetings and other events.

Take the PSAT, a standardized exercise test meant to help students understand their strengths and areas for improvement before a future SAT. PSAT scores are also used to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program. A PSAT will be ordered for every 10th-grader. You may opt out of taking the PSAT but only after consulting with your parents/guardians.
Hear from college counselors at class meetings and other events about helpful topics, including the importance of character during high school and how that comes through in your college applications, as well as how to find meaningful summer experiences.Continue to be engaged in a variety of activities, from music to community service, sports to school publications.

For some, take the PSAT in the fall, then meet with your counselor to talk about your score and strategies for future tests.
Attend the fall NMH College Fair, which brings scores of college admission reps to campus, as well as a spring fair hosted by a neighboring school.
In the spring, take the digital SAT (administered on campus) and/or the ACT.
Take an eight-week college counseling course, where you’ll learn the “language” of the application process and how to begin identifying your areas of interest.
Begin meeting with your individual college counselor, with whom you’ll develop a list of potential schools to apply to and start planning summer visits. Families will also be invited to campus for several programs about the process, including a talk by admission counselors from nearby colleges.
Take a test-prep program over the summer, if desired.
If you’re an athlete (with support from your coach) or artist (with support from faculty), begin putting together your portfolio or performance videos.

Meet on a regular basis with your college counselor, fine-tuning your list based on new developments, from summer visits to improved academic performance. Your entire class will also have meetings with the counseling team to talk about the application process, including topics like deadlines (rolling, early action, early decision, etc.) and how to best communicate with college admission officers and coaches.
In the fall, if desired, retake the SAT or ACT. Students for whom English is not their primary language may take an English language proficiency exam.
Attend the fall NMH College Fair, where you can connect with admission reps and even interview with one of the many schools that offer this option. You’ll also have other opportunities to meet with the dozens of college reps who visit campus each year.
Work on your essays, supplements, and applications, with the support of your counselor.
Submit your applications and final transcripts — then get back to being focused on your academic and cocurricular priorities as a contributing member of our community.

Begin receiving college counseling before you even arrive on campus, starting in the late spring and early summer.
Connect early with your college counselor, who will help you select the right courses for your PG year.
Take part in all the college counseling activities and opportunities available to 12th-graders, including counseling, test prep, and the NMH College Fair.