DC State Board of Education Year-by-year guide · 8th–12th grade

Your education journey,
one grade at a time.

A clear, year-by-year map of what to do, when to do it, and who to talk to — from the high school lottery through graduation day.

English Español →
Choose · transition
8th
Middle school transition
Picking the right high school
This year is about the choice. The high school you pick will shape every option that follows — from AP and IB to CTE pathways and dual enrollment. Cast a wide net.
Key actions
Research high school options — DCPS, charters, and application schools
Attend high school fairs and open houses (Fall)
Apply through My School DC lottery (Deadline: Feb 1)
Take placement tests if required by application schools
Meet with your middle school counselor about course planning
Start thinking about CTE or academic interests
Begin community service hours — build toward 100
Plant · explore
9th
Foundation year
Grades begin to count
Grades start counting toward GPA — and the relationships you build with teachers this year become next year's recommendations. Start strong, ask for help early.
Key actions
Take challenging courses — grades count toward GPA now
Explore clubs, sports, and extracurriculars
Learn about AP, IB, CTE, and Dual Enrollment options
Start community service — aim for 25 hours/year
Build relationships with teachers for future recommendations
Create a 4-year course plan with your counselor
If you have an IEP: discuss transition planning goals
Practice · choose
10th
Test the waters
First PSAT, first AP/IB
The exploration year. The PSAT in October gives you a free dress rehearsal for the SAT. AP, IB, and CTE start to open up — try one and see how it fits.
Key actions
Take the PSAT in October — practice for the SAT
Enroll in AP, IB, or CTE courses based on interests
Consider Dual Enrollment for summer or next year
Continue community service — aim for 50 hours total
Start researching colleges and careers
Attend college fairs and career exploration events
McKinley students: declare your STEM major
Launch · apply
11th
The pivotal year
SAT, AP, college list
The most important year for college admissions. Test scores, AP exams, recommendation letters, and your college list all start here. Move with intention.
Key actions
Take SAT or ACT in spring — register early
Take AP exams (May) for college credit
Visit colleges during spring break
Research scholarships — start applying now
Ask teachers for recommendation letters in spring
Build a college list — reach, match, and safety schools
Complete community service — 75 to 100 hours
Dual Enrollment: consider taking college courses
Finish · decide
12th
Senior year
FAFSA, applications, decisions
This year is about deadlines. FAFSA opens October 1 — file it that day. Each scholarship and application has its own date. Build a calendar; check it weekly.
Key actions
Complete FAFSA when it opens October 1 — do this EARLY
Apply for DC TAG (opens Feb 3, deadline Aug 15)
Submit college applications — check each deadline
Apply for scholarships continuously, all year
Request final transcripts for colleges
Compare financial aid offers (April)
Commit to a college by May 1 — National Decision Day
Graduate and celebrate

Keep these handyPeople who can help

Worried you missed something?

It's almost never too late. Bring this guide to your school counselor and ask, "What can I still do this year?" Counselors plan recovery routes all the time.