To qualify for AP classes in high school, take pre-algebra classes in middle school. Make sure to get high marks in your classes. AP classes are advanced placement classes in U. S. high schools. If you live in another country, like Canada, the UK, or India, seek out similar advanced classes at your high school.

In middle school, make sure to do well in your science classes in order to qualify for AP science classes in high school.

Clubs are also a great way to learn about science and math competitions, as well as science summer camps and programs. If there’s none nearby, start your own! This also shows people you have initiative to do well.

Find these books at your school’s library, or at your local bookstore.

Check out NASA’s summer programs by visiting their web page. Additionally, the Summer Science Program is a non-profit organization that offers programs in Colorado and New Mexico.

If your college doesn’t offer a bachelor’s degree in astrophysics, then get a bachelor’s degree in physics with a minor in astronomy, or vice versa.

You can also find internship programs through astrophysics societies, like the American Astronomical Society, or through programs like the Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) program.

A master’s of science degree will prepare you to work as a research assistant, or teach as a visiting professor at colleges and universities. Master’s programs typically take 2 to 3 years to complete.

Ask them, “How did you become interested in your research?” And, “What projects are you currently working on?” Make sure to get high grades in their classes as well.

A doctoral degree will prepare you to work at a college or university as a researcher or teacher, for government agencies like NASA, private and public research facilities, and national observatories and science centers. Doctoral degrees typically take 4 to 6 years to complete.

If your goal is to become a researcher at a university, then you will need to complete 1 to 2 fellowships before applying for full-time faculty positions.

If you only have a master’s degree, then apply for professor-in-residence or visiting professor positions in fields such as geology, chemistry, applied math, atmospheric science, and engineering.

Search for jobs at the World Bank, MasterCard, ING, Goldman Sachs, GE Capital, and Standard Chartered Bank, to name a few.

Also look for these jobs at agencies like the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA, and Keck Telescope.