February may feel quieter on the surface, but it’s actually an important planning month, whether you’re preparing for admissions decisions in Grade 12 or laying the groundwork for future applications in Grade 11. While the focus looks different depending on your year, staying intentional now can make a meaningful difference later on. At Options Solutions, our educational consultants recommend the following priorities for February:
For Grade 12 Students
For Grade 12s, February is about staying organized, informed, and steady while waiting for admissions decisions to continue rolling out.
1. Update grades with final first-semester marks
Many universities require final first-semester grades, and these are often submitted and reviewed in February. Confirm that your updated marks have been sent by your school and that they appear correctly in each portal, or ensure that you have updated your self-reported marks. If there are discrepancies or missing information, reach out to your school counsellor promptly.
2. Watch for school and district scholarships
February is a major month for school-based and district scholarships. These awards often have short timelines and specific requirements, so be sure to watch for announcements from your school and guidance office. Options consultants can help you prioritize which scholarships to apply for and review your applications before submission.
3. Log in weekly to all university accounts
Applicant portals remain your primary source for updates. Log in at least once a week to monitor application statuses, respond to requests, and check for new messages. Staying consistent helps ensure you don’t miss time-sensitive instructions or deadlines
4. Begin the next stage of research: residence, tuition, and program perks
As offers begin to arrive, February is a time to dig deeper. Research residence options, tuition costs, scholarships, co-op opportunities, study abroad options, and unique program features. Doing this research now will make for a much less stressful spring. Our educational consultants often work with students at this stage to compare offers and understand what each school provides beyond acceptance.
5. Try to keep calm as you wait for admissions decisions.
Waiting can be the hardest part of the process. Remember that admissions decisions are released over several weeks or even months. Stay focused on your current coursework and well-being, and know that our team is here to help you interpret decisions and plan next steps when they arrive.
For Grade 11 Students
For Grade 11s, February is a great time to reflect, explore, and plan, without the pressure of immediate deadlines. We always recommend that our students begin their post-secondary application prep early, as early as February of their grade 11 year, so that they can get ahead before their busy senior year.
1. Set goals for second semester
Now that first-semester report cards are in, February is the perfect time to take stock of what’s working and what could improve. Consider both academic and personal goals for the remainder of the year. This might include aiming for stronger grades in key courses, improving study habits, or becoming more engaged in class. Setting clear, realistic goals now helps students enter the second half of the year with focus and motivation.
2. Explore post-secondary institutions and their requirements
Grade 11 is an excellent time to begin learning how different universities and colleges approach admissions. Research admission requirements, recommended courses, and general expectations for programs you may be interested in. Early awareness allows you to make informed decisions about Grade 12 course selection and avoids last-minute surprises down the line. Our consultants often help students translate this research into a clear academic plan.
3. Identify faculties or fields of study that interest you
You don’t need to have a final answer yet, but starting to explore areas of interest now is incredibly valuable. Think about which subjects you enjoy, what types of learning environments suit you, and what topics you find yourself curious about outside of class. This early exploration helps guide future course choices, extracurricular involvement, and summer opportunities in a way that feels purposeful rather than rushed.
4. Audit extracurriculars and look for gaps
February is a great checkpoint for extracurricular involvement. Review what you’re currently involved in and consider whether your activities reflect your interests and strengths. Are there leadership opportunities you could grow into? Is there a gap where you could explore something new? Rather than adding more, focus on depth, consistency, and impact, qualities admissions committees value highly.
5. Think about summer plans
While summer may feel far away, planning early opens up far more opportunities. Whether you’re considering a job, volunteering, academic enrichment, or skills-based programs, your summer can play an important role in personal growth and application readiness. Thinking ahead now allows time to research options and choose experiences that align with your goals and interests.
February may look different for Grade 11 and Grade 12 students, but for both, it’s a month that rewards planning and reflection. Whether you’re preparing to make post-secondary decisions or laying the groundwork for future applications, the Options Solutions educational consultants are here to support you at every stage.
