But younger students who hope to go to college should be getting ready, too.

Ninth graders should take algebra and geometry as soon as possible. And they need English, social studies, foreign language, science and the arts. They should begin thinking about what kind of college they might want to go to.

Tenth graders should continue a strong college-prep course in school. They should start getting ready for tests such as the SAT. They may take it as early as next year. Talk to a guidance counselor or check on www.finaid.org (7/00) to prepare for financing college.

Eleventh graders should do all of the above. They should decide if they will need help to prepare for the SAT. If they can, they should visit the colleges they like most. If not, they should research them. And they should ask each college to send information.

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