Knowing what will be required for college is important; by taking the right courses and examinations from the beginning of high school, your child may avoid admission problems later on. In addition, students who do not prepare well enough academically in high school, if admitted to college, may be required to take remedial courses. Most colleges do not offer credit for these courses, and students may have to pay for these extra courses and spend extra time in college to earn their degrees. Studies have also shown that students who take more rigorous courses in high school are more likely to complete college. Chart 3 lists some questions that you or your child may want to ask your child's guidance counselor.

Questions To Ask Guidance Counselors
What basic academic courses do you recommend for students who want to go to college? How many years of each academic subject does the high school require for graduation? What elective courses do you recommend for college-bound students? Can students who are considering college get special help or tutoring?	What activities can students do at home and over the summers to strengthen their preparation for college? How much homework is expected of students preparing for college? What do different colleges require in terms of high school grades and SAT or ACT scores?

Course Planner for Parent and Student

This exercise will give you and your child a chance to look ahead and choose future courses. Be aware that some courses must be taken in sequence. On the form below, list your child's current courses or courses he or she will take this year. Then list courses that he or she will take during each year of high school. If you are not sure what courses your child should take, you should make an appointment with your child's guidance counselor and get some advice.

Course Planner for Parent and Student

A student's interpersonal and leadership skills as well as outside interests and goals are all important for college preparation. Independent reading and study, extracurricular activities, and work experience will all help your child develop his or her skills, interests, and goals.

Independent Reading and Study