No matter your education or career goals, it's helpful to begin preparing early. Sometimes, depending on what you want to do, you may need to prepare as early as high school or middle school.

Need help catching up?

If you're worried you haven't given the matter any thought, it's not too late.

• Use our college planning and financial aid calendar
• Assess your interests
• Explore occupations
• Get ready for college
• Take standardized tests

Are you the first in your family to go to college? We have resources and advice for you.

Do you already have a good idea of what you want?

Perhaps you can start selecting schools to apply to.