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Preparation Checklist
Preparation Checklist

Tips & Hints


It’s never too early to start preparing for college. If you’re in 8th-10th grade, these preparation tips will help you be ready as you move toward your later high school years. If you’re in or past your junior year of high school, kick your preparation into high gear with the Preparation Checklists found on this page. Select the checklist titled ‘Part 1: Before You Apply’ to get started!


8th Grade:

  1. Prepare academically: 9th grade begins the official record-keeping for your high school transcript. In order to have a competitive Grade Point Average (GPA), it’s important to develop good study habits now, so you’ll perform at your best starting at the beginning of your high school career. For some great tips on developing good study habits, check out the ‘College Prep’ slide show at www.besmart.com.
  2. Start saving: Higher education isn’t cheap; the earlier you start saving, the better prepared you’ll be for the financial responsibilities you’ll have in college. For tips on preparing yourself financially, check www.besmart.com.

9th–10th Grade:

  1. Take the right classes: By taking the right classes in high school, you’ll hit the ground running when you get to college. For examples of recommended high school classes, check www.besmart.com. Make sure you schedule time for the most important high school class of all: SEMINARY!
  2. Know academic requirements:
    a. Public School: BYU–Idaho’s academic requirements are found at http://www.byui.edu/admissions/academicinfo.htm
    b.Home/Private/Charter Schools: If you attend a home school or other non-public school program, you’ll want to be aware of some special requirements that will come into play when you apply. BYU–Idaho’s requirements for you are outlined at http://www.byui.edu/admissions/homeschool.htm.
  3. Get Involved: BYU–Idaho is looking for students who are involved inside and outside of class. Programs like Scouting, Young Women’s Personal Progress, Duty to God, and Especially for Youth are perfectly suited to help you prepare yourself for education and life in a lot of different ways. Along with sports, work experiences, clubs, service, competitions, and more, these experiences are all reviewed on your application to BYU–Idaho. Don’t let these opportunities pass you by!
  4. Check into Ap classes: Advanced Placement classes will start to give you a glimpse at the type of work you’ll need to do in college. Taking AP classes and scoring well on the AP test for that subject can also earn you some advance college credit. To see BYU–Idaho’s AP credit breakdown, click here.