The College Application Process

Selecting a College Involves Many Things Self – Assessment Information Gathering Selection Process Filing Applications The Wait The Final Choice

Self-Evaluation The first step in finding the right match Goals and values Academic interests, abilities and learning style Activities and outside interests Your personality and relationships Career awareness and interests

Information Gathering Sending for Course Catalogues Using Computer Software and Internet Using Print Resources at School, Home and Library College Fairs College Visits

Minimum Requirements of Many 4-Year Colleges Years English 4 Science (2) 3 Social Studies 2 Mathematics 3 Foreign Language 3 Electives

Relative Importance to College Admissions Decision

Selecting a College Reach Selection Process Possible Likely

Ways to Apply Early Action Early Decision (binding) Regular Admission Rolling Admission

Admission Criteria Intended major Activities outside the classroom Athletic talents Special talents, skills and interests Legacy sometimes a factor

Transcript GPA (weighted and unweighted) Standardized test scores (ACT or SAT) Courses taken and level of difficulty (Advanced, Honors, or AP) School activities (CSF, sports, clubs, organizations, employment, volunteer activities, community service, etc…)

SAT I and SAT II ACT Tests commonly taken in spring of junior year and fall of senior year Sat II required only for some private schools ACT sometimes replaces SAT I and SAT II at some schools

Recommendations Give your teachers plenty of notice (two weeks minimum) Supply the teacher with an informal resume of activities, interests, goals.

Ethnicity Alumni relationship Geographic location Other Admission Criteria Ethnicity Alumni relationship Geographic location

Essay…a few pointers for parents Should be Don’t lose sleep over it! edited for mechanics, spelling, grammar, punctuation and typos. Don’t rely on spell-check Proofread Average 200-250 words

Essay Student should Write in student’s own voice Not try to sound impressive Be genuine Take time to concentrate on content, insights Write several drafts Take a close look at organization, structure and transitions Not digress from topic Essay should give honest insight into who student really is and how student views the world

Selective Colleges High school record Admission tests Recommendations Application/essay Other factors

Final Notes: Students should: Visit the counselor often Use resources in Guidance Office Visit schools Talk to friends, family, teachers Start early