At North Haven Community School, we encourage students to engage deeply in both academic and extracurricular pursuits to build a strong foundation for their future endeavors. This could include enrolling in college, trade school, or other post-secondary certification. Ultimately, it is best to keep your options open, which means adhering closely to deadlines so that certain doors do not close.

At North Haven Community School, our college counseling program is all about helping students make sense of the college search and application process—and feel good about it along the way. With so many options out there, our goal is to help each student find schools that really fit who they are and what they want for their future. This is a time for reflection, growth, and making meaningful choices, and we’re here to support students through every step.

We also understand that this process can be stressful—for both students and families. One of our main priorities is to ease that anxiety and help students approach everything with confidence. It’s not just about getting into college—it’s about learning how to make thoughtful decisions and understand your own values and goals.

One of the core values of our program is student ownership. We encourage students to take the lead in their college journey—from exploring their interests to deciding where to apply and completing their applications. Colleges are looking for authenticity, and the best applications come directly from the student’s own voice and experience.

The college process officially begins during the second half of junior year, when we host a parent information night in January. That’s when we lay out how the process works at NHCS and how families and counselors will work together to support each student. But our door is always open—students and families are welcome to reach out earlier with questions or concerns.

Starting in the winter of junior year, students meet regularly in small groups and one-on-one with our college counselor to research schools, discuss goals, and begin shaping a list of possible colleges. That work continues into senior year, when students focus on putting together strong applications and making final decisions.

Of course, the college process doesn’t start from scratch in junior year. Students begin building their academic record from day one of high school. Faculty advisors help guide course choices each year, making sure students stay on track for both their personal growth and future college plans. Throughout high school, we keep college readiness in mind—while also making sure students are learning and growing in ways that matter to them.

Whether you're just starting to think about college or already knee-deep in applications, we’re here to help. Students and families are always welcome to schedule a meeting to talk through ideas, get answers, or just explore options together.

Below is a grade-by-grade guide to help you navigate this process: