Middle school and high school are important times for early postsecondary planning, and many educational organizations and the U.S. Department of Education recommend that students begin planning for college as early as sixth grade. Schools can play a key role in guiding early preparation for postsecondary education through fostering academic…

This study, reflects the American College Testing Program's (ACT's) interest in analyzing the critical issues affecting the preparation of the postsecondary applicant pool and the high school experience. It offers recommendations that policymakers, educators, and others can use to enhance the transition from high school to postsecondary education.…