For the Class of 2027, junior year is the turning point in the college admissions process. It’s the year when grades matter most, ACT and SAT prep ramps up, and college visits begin shaping the future. Starting now (before spring gets busy) gives students a real advantage.

Here are three reasons juniors should take action this fall:

1. Junior Year Grades Count the Most
Colleges look closely at junior year performance because it’s the most recent full year before applications are due. A strong first semester can raise a student’s GPA, while a weak one can be hard to recover from. Staying on top of coursework now will pay off later.

2. ACT/SAT Prep Takes Time
The best ACT/SAT results come from steady practice, not cramming. Students who begin test prep this fall are positioned for the December, February, or April test dates, which align well with college planning. By starting early, juniors can retest if needed and walk into senior year with scores in hand.

3. Campus Visits Shape the College List
Fall and winter are the perfect seasons to visit colleges. Classes are in session, students are on campus, and juniors can start identifying what type of environment feels like the best fit. By spring, many colleges will offer junior-specific visit days that build on this early exploration.

Final Word
Junior year is about momentum. Families who start now reduce stress, keep options open, and make senior year far more manageable.

At Class 101 Waukesha-Brookfield, we help juniors map out a personalized plan for grades, test prep, visits, and scholarships. If your student is ready to take the next step, schedule a free consultation today.