Steps to Keep College-Bound Students on Track

Many low-income, high-achieving students miss out on college opportunities because they underestimate the admissions process. Now, as these students endure a hard economic and social hit from the pandemic, experts say schools need to provide a clear structure and supports to help the Class of 2021 and beyond stay on track with their postsecondary plans.

The following timeline, drawn from discussions with college admissions and high school guidance experts, highlights some ways schools can schedule the support students need most to plan for and transition after graduation—and continue to provide that assistance in the face of pandemic-related disruptions and uncertainties.

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Liz Ogolo, 18, who is attending Harvard University this fall, said the transition to college was difficult without guidance from her high school, which switched to remote learning in the spring.
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Angela Rowlings for Education Week
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Magdalena Estiverne graduated from high school this past spring during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is currently taking online community college classes.
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Eve Edelheit for Education Week
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