Back-to-School Checklist for U.S. High School Students (Grades 9–12)

The end of August and the beginning of September signal the start of a new school year for high school students across the United States. Whether you are entering ninth grade or preparing for your senior year, how you plan and organize now can set the tone for a successful year.

To help students get started, we have created a practical back-to-school checklist with tips designed for students in grades 9-12.

Checklist for All Students

Health Checkup and Required Forms

Taking care of health requirements is an important first step. Before school begins, check with your school to see which medical exams, vaccinations, and forms are needed. Schedule any necessary appointments, make sure your immunization records are current, and submit all documents to the school clinic on time.

If a required vaccine (such as TDAP) isn’t available in your home country, reach out to the school clinic in advance to arrange to receive it once you’re in the U.S. If you’ll be bringing personal prescription medications or health supplements, notify the school medical office so they can register them properly.

Ivy Talent recommends double-checking submission deadlines for health forms well before school starts and contacting the clinic right away if you anticipate any delays.

Organizing School Supplies

Getting organized with your supplies is an important step for a strong start to the school year. Begin by looking through what you already have from last year. Keep the items that are still in good condition and replace anything that is worn out. Be sure you have the basics, including pencils, pens, notebooks, folders, and other tools you use for studying.

Backpack: Choose a comfortable, durable backpack with several compartments to keep your books, notebooks, and devices organized. 

Supplies: Make a list of what you will need for each course and try to shop early to avoid the last-minute rush. Many stores have end-of-summer sales, which is a good opportunity to save on supplies.

Tip: Shopping before the semester starts will make it easier to find what you need and avoid crowded stores.

Organizing Your School Wardrobe

Go through your wardrobe and replace items that no longer fit or are worn out. Be sure to understand your school’s dress code or uniform requirements.

For schools without air conditioning, pack light, breathable clothing for warm days. In colder regions, such as New England, bring plenty of warm layers, including a reliable winter coat. Even though classrooms and dorms are heated, walks between buildings can be very cold.

Special Checklist for New Students (Grade 9 or Transfers)

Starting at a new high school can feel overwhelming, but preparation makes the transition easier. Focus on these steps:

Learn the School Systems

Many U.S. high schools use online platforms, such as Canvas or Google Classroom, to manage coursework. Before classes begin:

• Log in and explore the platform.
• Check if your course schedule is available.
• Practice common functions, such as submitting homework, checking grades, and contacting teachers.
• Set up your school email account and learn proper email etiquette.

Ivy Talent recommends checking your email regularly before the semester starts, as some teachers may send welcome messages or assignments in advance.

Understand Campus Resources

U.S. schools encourage students to ask for help, but you need to know where to go. Resources include:

• Advisor/Academic Mentor: Your first point of contact for academic planning and personal support.
• Counselor: Provides guidance on course selection and long-term planning.
• Writing Center: Offers free assistance with essays and assignments.
• Teacher Office Hours: Set times for students to ask questions after class.
• Dorm Parent: Supports boarding students with residential matters.

Ivy Talent recommends meeting with your advisor during the first week of school to build a strong rapport.

Adjusting Socially and Academically

Feeling anxious during the first few weeks is normal. You can take steps to make the transition easier:

• Attend orientation and welcome events.
• Prepare a short self-introduction.
• Learn a few simple English icebreaker questions.
• Use body language to show openness.
• Set small goals, such as greeting every teacher or making two new friends in the first week.

Ivy Talent suggests: For students less confident in English, practice common classroom expressions, presentation structures, and question formats before school begins.

Course Selection

Even if you have already chosen your courses, the real challenge is adjusting to their pace and difficulty:

• Make sure your schedule aligns with your strengths and goals.
• Remember that most schools allow course changes within the first two weeks.
• Create a system to track homework, projects, and exams.
  Check whether extra materials or online accounts are required for certain classes.

Ivy Talent recommends focusing on completing assignments steadily during the first two months rather than rushing. Build consistency before trying to accelerate.

Checklist for Returning Students (Grades 10–12)

For sophomores, juniors, and seniors, preparation focuses on setting goals, refining strategies, and executing effectively.

Setting Academic Goals and Tracking Your GPA

Grades in later years directly affect college applications. Consider:

• Are my courses this year challenging but manageable?
• Should I take additional AP or Honors classes?
• Do I need to improve in specific subjects?
• Do I have a plan for recommendation letters?

Ivy Talent recommends focusing on building a strong GPA in 10th grade, maintaining it in 11th grade, and finishing senior year strong.

Standardized Test Planning

Testing is about timing and strategy, not speed. Use this self-checklist:

SAT/ACT:

• Have I already taken the test?
• Do my scores meet my goals?
• Do I need a retake, and is my study plan realistic?

TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo (for international students):

• Do I meet the language requirements of my target schools?
• Should I retake the exam to strengthen my application?

AP/IB/A-Level Exams:

• Have I chosen the right subjects?
• Have I set study goals?
• Do I have a review plan for exams?

Ivy Talent suggests making a testing calendar that includes exam dates, registration deadlines, study plans, and target scores to stay organized and avoid last-minute stress.

Extracurricular Activities 

When it comes to extracurricular activities, quality is more important than quantity. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I have core activities that I have pursued for at least two years?
• Am I taking on leadership roles or additional responsibilities?
• Am I producing tangible outcomes such as research, essays, competitions, or projects that demonstrate my impact?

Ivy Talent recommends focusing on one or two long-term core activities as the foundation of your profile. Maintain a few smaller activities to show a range of interests and set clear achievement milestones, such as awards, competitions, or publications.

Starting high school or getting ready for college applications can feel overwhelming. This back-to-school checklist helps students stay on track, organize their priorities, and tackle the year with focus and confidence.

At Ivy Talent Education, we provide personalized guidance on course selection, extracurricular planning, and the college application process. To learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals this school year, contact us at Ivy Talent Education.