To have the most opportunities after graduation, there are recommended steps to take!
![This ETS middle school students participating in a workshop.](/ets/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_480px/public/media/2023-07/img_4290.jpeg?itok=pZFZZDwl)
9th grade
9th grade is a fresh start! While middle school is important, colleges only consider students grades from high school. It is important for 9th grade students to to focus on academics; but also, to participate in extra-curricular activities, explore colleges and career options.
![Manchester Central HS students on a tour of Northeastern University.](/ets/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_480px/public/media/2023-07/img_3490.jpeg?itok=DR3nDoMr)
10th grade
10th grade students should continue to focus on academics, as well as exploring careers, college majors and college options.
![ETS students on a college tour](/ets/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_480px/public/media/2023-07/sadikshya-co.jpeg?itok=EHlcG2Ur)
11th grade
In ETS, we always say that we treat our juniors like seniors. By starting prepare junior year, meaning- continuing to focus on academics; but also, building by their college lists and college essays, students can make their senior year and the college process less stressful and more successful! Here is full, month-by-month time of steps that juniors should be taking.
![This is an image of Melissa, Concord ETS advisor on a college tour with her students](/ets/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_480px/public/media/2023-07/img_3970-2.jpeg?itok=nW1DToIq)
12th grade
ETS is here for students throughout the whole college & financial aid applications processes. Seniors must also remember that colleges see grades from senior year; thus, continuing to focus on academics is essential. See link below for detailed information on the college application process.