October 2025 Checklists

Progress, balance, and preparation

October is an important month for high school students to check in on their progress and keep moving forward. By this point, students should be settled into their routines and more comfortable with their classes and extracurricular activities. It’s also a time to look ahead—seniors are deep in the college application process, while younger students can focus on strengthening academic habits and building meaningful experiences outside the classroom. This month is all about consistency, balancing schoolwork with interests, and making sure the goals set at the start of the year are actively being pursued.

At a glance… 

Upcoming ACT deadlines:

• 10/18 test

• 11/7 registration deadline for 12/13 test (no ACT in November)

• 12/13 test

• 1/9 registration deadline for 2/14 test (no ACT in January)

Upcoming SAT deadlines:

• 10/4 test (good luck!)

• 10/24 registration deadline for 11/8 test

• 11/8 test

• 11/21 registration deadline for 12/6 test

• 12/6 test

• 2/27 registration deadline for 3/14 test (no SAT in January nor February)

Other:

• Step into my office! AMA for ALL subscribers is Thursday, October 2nd from 2:00-3:00 PM EST. Join us here!

• PSAT/NMSQT: This test isn’t just good practice for the SAT! The date is either Saturday, October 11, 2025, or Saturday, October 18, 2025 - check to see if your school offers this!

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9th graders

If you’re a freshman, then your jobs this month are:

• Introduce yourself to your guidance counselor.
  Even if you don’t have pressing questions yet, it’s helpful to get to know them early. Stop by their office, learn about the resources they offer, and start building a relationship—you’ll thank yourself later.

• Evaluate your extracurricular activities.
  Take a moment to reflect on the clubs and activities you’ve joined. Are they the right fit for you? Are you taking on too much? Consider lightening your load if needed. One helpful exercise: make a list of about three goals for each activity or club and assess whether they align with your interests and strengths.

• Focus on academics.
  By now, you’re likely finding your rhythm. Stick to consistent study habits, aim for strong grades, and make an effort to build positive relationships with your teachers—they can be invaluable resources throughout high school.

• Find an organizational system that works for you.
  Organization is key to staying on top of assignments and responsibilities. Experiment with different tools—digital apps like Trello or Google Calendar, or traditional paper planners—and commit to a system that fits your style. Regular use is what makes it effective.

Parents of 9th graders:

• Promote effective study habits.
  Help your child establish routines, consistency, and a productive study environment. If they struggle to do this on their own, consider creating structures or offering guidance to support their academic success.

• Stay engaged with their course load.
  Monitor grades and check in on how your child is adjusting to their classes. If a course seems too challenging, too easy, or misaligned with their goals, discuss possible adjustments.

• Attend school open houses.
  Open houses give insight into both courses and extracurricular opportunities. Parents often receive different information from students, so attending helps you stay informed and support your child’s choices effectively.