Start planning for IU Bloomington in Eighth and Ninth grade

Eighth & ninth grade planning

Start exploring your future

It’s never too early to start thinking about college. As an eighth- or ninth-grader, you can begin to focus on your interests, build strong habits, and learn what colleges like IU Bloomington look for in future �㽶��Ƶs. Small steps now can help you feel confident and prepared when it’s time to apply.

Steps you can take now

Ask tons of questions. Get advice and opinions from people you know—your family, teachers, mentors. They can help you sort out what you should be thinking about right now.
Ask yourself questions, too. Think about what you like to do, what you’re good at, and what sort of careers you might want to know more about.
Meet with your guidance counselor to plan out your high school coursework. Include the classes that will best prepare you for success in college. Need a list? Check out the courses required for admission to IU.
Start looking at college websites to learn about admission requirements and to get an idea of when you’ll take tests like the PSAT and/or PreACT. Although the SAT and ACT are optional at IU and some other schools, you may decide that taking them is right for you. Use free resources through and to practice.
Attend a college fair to learn more about colleges you’re interested in. You’ll have a chance to talk with admissions counselors from each school and get more details on majors, �㽶��Ƶ life, and resources and opportunities at the school.
Make high school fun and meaningful! Spend time building your leadership skills, joining clubs and organizations that interest you, or volunteering in your community. Start keeping a list of activities you get involved in, positions you hold, and honors you receive—this will come in handy when you’re ready to apply to college.

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Explore more resources as you grow

The Common App (one way you can apply to IU Bloomington) put together a college prep checklist specific to 9th graders.
IU precollege programs
Get a glimpse of college life, explore your interests, and build skills with IU Bloomington's precollege programs.
Break down the complex world of work. Search by your interests and see career matches.
MoneySmarts at IU provides resources to help you understand saving and paying for college.

IU Bloomington

Office of Admissions

Ernie Pyle Hall 940 E. Seventh Street Bloomington, IN 47405