Summer is upon us and, with a break from school, now is a great time to plan for the college admissions process.

Here are seven simple steps to improve your chances of acceptance.

1. Start early in the admissions process.

Freshmen and sophomores should take classes that allow them to demonstrate proficiency and prepare for advanced coursework while getting involved in activities to explore interests and gain leadership. Juniors and seniors should start the admissions process as early as possible, getting to know their guidance counselor, visiting/selecting colleges, taking standardized tests and writing application essays.

2. Use online resources to do research.

Visit college websites, view student profiles and learn about financial aid. Join message boards to ask questions, email admissions officers or schedule appointments for info sessions and tours. The more time you spend researching your college options online, the easier it will be to narrow down the list of schools that are most appropriate for you to visit, and eventually, apply to.

3. Talk to your school counselor.

Your counselor does a lot more than help with class schedules. The counselor is a good resource for the admissions process and will also submit a recommendation letter – so, the better the counselor knows your child, the stronger the letter. It’s appropriate for parents to meet with the counselor. Establish open lines of communication and become comfortable with asking questions.

4. Join extracurricular activities and become a leader.

Colleges like to admit students who are active and will contribute to the campus community. You should get involved in activities that you are passionate about, whether it’s community service, debate, athletics or the arts. Consider non-traditional activities, such as cooking or reading novels. Limit involvement to four to six activities and take a larger leadership role.

5. Start a club.

Perhaps you have an interest in an activity or hobby, but there are no existing clubs or groups at the high school catering to that passion. If so, consider starting one – it’s usually pretty easy. Just find a school adviser and classmates interested in joining. Becoming a founder will prove to colleges that you are a leader, proactive and interested in making a difference.

6. Take challenging courses.

Colleges want to see that you have taken challenging courses. The key is to take the most difficult courses possible while still getting good grades. It’s not an effective strategy to take all advanced courses but receive B’s and C’s. Instead, you should take as many high level courses that you can do well in. Make sure to focus in any specific academic areas of interest that might be future majors.

7. Study for standardized exams.

Test scores can improve with dedicated studying. You should take a diagnostic SAT or ACT exam early to find out your strengths and weaknesses, and then dedicate several hours each week for many weeks, possibly months, to increase that score. There are many resources available to do so. Although admissions officers consider many factors in their decisions, test scores can count for a lot.

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