High School Planning (Grades 9-12)
Your Roadmap to College, Career, and Beyond
High school is where the path to your future starts to take shape. Each year matters, not just grades but for planning courses, exploring careers, preparing for college, and qualifying for scholarships like TN Promise or Tennessee HOPE Scholarship.
The NEXT Guides from College for TN provide grade-specific steps to help you succeed. Follow the Guide for your grade.
9th Grade – Build the Foundation
The 9th grade NEXT Guide focuses on establishing a foundation that supports long-term success.
It helps students:
Understand high school structure and graduation requirements
Build strong academic routines and habits
Explore interests and future career paths
Set short- and long-term goals
Identify opportunities for leadership and involvement
Access the official 9th Grade NEXT Guide here: https://www.collegefortn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Freshmen-Guide-2025.pdf.
10th Grade - Explore Opportunities
The 10th grade NEXT Guide emphasizes exploration and preparation for future choices.
It helps students:
Assess strengths and interests
Take stock of GPA and performance
Begin standardized test awareness
Explore electives and advanced course options
Begin research on post-secondary options
Access the official 10th Grade NEXT Guide here: https://www.collegefortn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Sophomores-Next-Guide-2025.pdf.
11th Grade – Take Action
The 11th grade NEXT Guide centers on planning and action toward college and career readiness.
It helps students:
Understand college admissions basics
Prepare for and take standardized tests
Research pathways and programs
Start building a college and career target list
Explore scholarship and financial aid basics early
Access the official 11th Grade NEXT Guide here: https://www.collegefortn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Junior-Next-Guide-2025.pdf.
12th Grade – Make Your Move
The 12th grade NEXT Guide is intensely action-oriented, focused on completing the transition.
It helps students:
Complete and submit applications
File the FAFSA early
Apply for Tennessee scholarship programs
Compare offers and make an enrollment decision
Prepare for post high school transition
Access the official 12th Grade NEXT Guide here: https://www.collegefortn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Senior-Next-Guide-Class-of-2026.pdf.
For Parents & Families
Parents and guardians play a key role in helping students succeed in high school.
Here’s how you can help:
Monitor grades and attendance
Help students set realistic goals
· Attend school information nights and college fairs
· Support career exploration and course planning
· Encourage proactive scholarship and financial aid preparation
Local Resources & Live Help
Even though this site provides step-by-step guidance, you can contact:
· Your high school counselor
· Your high school college and career advisor
· Local college admissions offices (UTC, Chattanooga State)
· Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) Outreach Coordinator
· Attend local FAFSA nights and workshops