Students, “college prep” is about more than the classes that you take. It’s also about developing the skills that will help you succeed in college and life. For instance, as you balance studying and having fun, you’ll be practicing time management; and as you save for college, you’ll be learning money management. Our checklists suggest these and many other steps you can take, as well as websites you can explore, as you prepare academically and financially for college.

Parents, each of the checklists—from elementary school through high school—includes items for you, such as how to support your child in his or her studies, where to set up a college savings account, and what to do when it’s time to apply for financial aid.