Biggest stress surge in high school?

Alright, so I've been hearing conflicting views about this. Is there such a thing as the most stressful year in high school? Some say it's the junior year as that's when college prep starts, aiming high for SAT/ACT, AP classes. Others say it's senior year with all college apps and waiting for admissions results. I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Indeed, the perception of the most stressful year in high school varies greatly among students. This largely depends on one's workload, responsibilities, and personal experiences.

Many students end up identifying their junior year as the most stressful. The third year of high school is when many students start juggling advanced courses (such as AP or Honors classes), start prep for SAT/ACT tests, and often participate in various extracurricular activities to strengthen their college applications. Plus, you're also beginning to seriously research colleges and potentially embark on college visits.

On the other hand, senior year carries its own share of stress. There's the pressure of college applications, writing essays, and securing recommendations. Plus, the anxiety of waiting for college admissions decisions can be nerve-wracking. On top of that, seniors often are still taking demanding courses and maintaining their performance in extracurriculars — all while possibly dealing with the emotional impact of impending high school graduation and the transition into college.

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to your question since it ultimately is a very individual experience. The key is to plan ahead, stay organized, and seek out support when you need it to manage these stressors. Depending on your circumstances, this could be creating a study schedule, seeking out a mentor for college application advice, or making time for mental health and relaxation amidst your serious commitments.