Chrysalis Admissions Advising

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Free resourceDownload the PDF

Admissions plan on a page

A four-year roadmap from 9th through 12th grade. Every student's path is different – this is the shape of the journey, not a checklist to race through.

9th grade

Academics and grades
  • Do well in core classes
  • Academic planning for 10th grade
Extracurriculars
  • Explore clubs
  • Continue to explore
  • Target: commit to at least one activity

10th grade

Academics and grades
  • Do well in core classes
  • Academic planning for 11th grade
Extracurriculars
  • Continue activities
  • Explore summer options
  • Continue and deepen activities
  • Summer job or program
College list
  • Understand "fit"

11th grade

Academics and grades
  • Do well in core classes
  • Academic planning for 12th grade
Extracurriculars
  • Deepen activities
  • Explore and prepare for summer options
  • Summer program, internship or job
Recommendations
  • Initial recommender thoughts
  • Setting intention
  • Recommender list
  • Provide materials
  • Ask and follow up
College list
  • What's important? Chrysalis card sort
  • College long list
  • Local campus visits
  • College research
  • Spring visits and travel
  • College short list
Testing
  • PSAT
  • ACT/SAT sprint (prep plus 1–2 exams)
  • AP exams
  • Continue SAT/ACT testing as needed

12th grade

Academics and grades
  • Take a light load if possible
Extracurriculars
  • Deepen activities
Recommendations
  • Waive FERPA rights
  • Follow up with recommenders
College list
  • Early action and early decision choices
  • Applications
  • Evaluate offers
  • Negotiate if relevant
Essays
  • Finalize essays
Testing
  • Final testing if needed

Ready to talk it through?

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