Preparation Phase (Grade 11)

1. Overview 阶段概述

Grade 11 is the most heavily weighted year in the application. Transcript performance, standardized scores and the depth of activities in this year collectively shape how admissions officers read the file. Plan deliberately, front-load testing in the spring, and reserve the summer for essay drafting and school list refinement. 11 年级是申请最关键的一年：GPA、标化、活动深化同时推进，暑期用于文书和选校。

2. Academic Performance 学术表现

Junior-year grades are scrutinized most closely because they reflect performance at the highest course level so far. Take the most rigorous courses you can sustain and aim for the strongest grades of your high school career. 11 年级 GPA 是重点，招生官最看重；选修最有挑战的课程并保持上升。

• Enroll in AP, IB HL or A-Level courses aligned with target major.
• Sit AP / IB / A-Level exams in May and prepare starting January.
• Keep a running list of major assignments and projects for resume use.

3. Standardized Tests 标化考试

Aim for a first official SAT or ACT sitting in the fall or winter, then retake in the spring if needed. For non-native speakers, push TOEFL or IELTS to a final target score by the end of summer so Grade 12 stays free for essays and applications. 秋/冬季 SAT/ACT 首考，春季可重考；托福/雅思争取暑期前达分。

• SAT / ACT: first attempt by January, retake by June if needed.
• TOEFL / IELTS: target final score before Grade 12 starts.
• SAT Subject Tests or AP scores sent where required.

4. School Research 选校调研

Build a balanced school list using reach, match and safety categories. Research majors, curriculum style, campus culture, financial aid policy and application requirements for each school. A realistic list of 8-12 schools usually balances ambition and safety. 制定 reach/match/safety 均衡的选校名单，8-12 所为宜。

• Reach (冲刺): admission uncertain even with strong profile.
• Match (匹配): academic profile aligns with school median.
• Safety (保底): strong likelihood of admission and affordable.
• Track each school's deadlines, essay prompts and recommendation requirements.

5. Extracurricular Deepening 活动深化

Shift from breadth to depth. Pick 1-2 activities to develop into leadership roles, competitions, independent research or a tangible project. Admissions officers look for impact and continuity, not a long list of one-semester memberships. 从广度转向深度：1-2 项活动发展为领导力、竞赛、科研或可交付成果。

• Run for a leadership role in a long-standing club.
• Enter subject-specific competitions (e.g. AMC, Olympiads, debate, MUN).
• Start an independent research project or community initiative.
• Update the activity journal with measurable outcomes.

6. Checklist 待办清单