Browse your college or university's course catalog. Make a list of courses that interest you. Write down any career interests you have, as well as any questions you have about the registration process or the curriculum.
Schedule an appointment with your academic adviser or department head (if you already have declared a major or minor). Ask about general education requirements and work out a long-term plan with your adviser that maps out all the credits and classes you must take in order to graduate.
Check out the list of classes available for the upcoming semester (your adviser will have a copy of this). Write down a list of "first choice" classes, or those that you would most like to take. Create a second list of classes that pique your interest and also fulfill general education requirements.
Calculate how much time and money you will feasibly be able to spend on your courses. Some students aim to graduate early and max out the number of credits they take each semester, which costs more up front but may cut down your overall education costs. Or you may need to drop a few credits if you are particularly busy with a part-time job. Estimate your college budget carefully to avoid surprises that could disrupt your path to graduation. Speak to your adviser about any substantial changes you would like to make to your course schedule due to finances.
Submit your completed schedule request form back to your adviser to finalize it and lock in your spot in class. Substitute classes from your backup list for first-choice courses if any of them fill up before you are able to turn in your final schedule.