It’s never too soon to start thinking about college. There’s no better time than right now to start preparing—even if you don’t know where you want to go yet. Take a look at our top three ways you can start to prepare for college and the courses you’re going to take.

1. Take advanced classes in high school

You can still get ready for college classes, even if you haven’t decided where you want to go just yet. While you’re doing your research on different schools and narrowing your college search, make sure you’re signing up for advanced classes like dual credit and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

The more work you do now, the more you’ll be prepared for college courses. Not to mention, taking those classes in high school can score you college credit before you even set foot on campus. You're saving yourself time and money in the future. Not a bad deal, huh?

2. Take the SAT & ACT test

Tests are stressful and boring, but unfortunately, also necessary to get into college. The SAT and ACT play a big part in where you go to school—and sometimes, how much scholarship money you get. Our advice? Start taking them pronto. The sooner you take these tests, the more time you’ll have to retake them and try for a better score.

Don’t just “wing it.” Start preparing now. Sign up for a prep class or buy a study guide. Put in some hard work and you will see some results.

3. Sign up for extracurriculars

Colleges and universities like high GPAs and great test scores, but we also want to see extracurricular activities. You want to be a well-rounded student who can balance academics with other parts of life. Start improving your application by joining a club, trying out for a team or start volunteering in your community.

Get out there and try something new. Discover a hidden talent or passion. Getting ready for college isn’t all tests and classes, it’s a whole lot of fun too.

We’re only giving you our top three ways to prepare for college, but we’ve got more. Interested? We have a checklist you can download, print and start checking items off.

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• Start preparing for the PSAT, SAT and ACT
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