College Admission Tests SAT Test: (800 possible points on each)  Critical Reading  Math  Writing Perfect Score = 2400 ACT TEST (36 possible points on each)  50% Reading/English  25% Math  25% Science  Essay Perfect (composite) Score = 36 LHS SAT Prep Class: March 16 th is the first class. Deadline is 03/10. To register: Go to or call

Average Test Scores National SAT Scores : Critical Reading = 501 Writing = 493 Math = 515 WA State SAT Scores: Critical Reading = 524 Writing = 507 Math = 531 National ACT Composite Average Score = 21 WA State ACT Composite Average Score = 23 NOTE: SAT II tests (subject tests) may be required by some competitive universities so check on this early in the process so you have time to take the test(s) and submit them.

Holistic Admissions: used by most major universities Curriculum quality grades 9-12 Select courses beyond minimum & classes related to long-range plans Rigorous senior year schedule GPA SAT or ACT scores; essay required Grade trends –GPA should improve as time goes on Activities, community service, leadership Cultural awareness & contributions Exceptional artistic talent Educational or economic disadvantage Overcoming personal adversity Writing quality of the personal statement

Public VS Independent Lower sticker price Grad students may teach lower level courses Some classes will be in large lecture halls (300+) Most professors teach upper division courses Class sizes generally lower in upper division classes Higher sticker price* Professors teach all courses Student/Prof. ratio is under 1/25 Student discussion/part- icipation high * Endowments allow for large scholarships and grants which greatly lowers costs for many students

Out-of-State Colleges There are over 4,100 colleges & universities Highly Selective Schools/Ivy League are very competitive Students will need to be exceptional in grades, tests, rigorous course selection, leadership, activities, etc. Be watchful for admission deadlines

College Search Sites Collegeboard.com : lots of criteria +SAT site Collegenet.com: finds colleges based on data & connects you to other useful websites College data.com: predicts your chances of getting admitted nces.ed.gov /college navigator: statistics + financial aid offered by the colleges Petersons.com: user friendly; will give you lots of infor + names of similar schools you might like There are many other college search sites

Consider Student’s Credentials in College Selection Recommended Applications: “back up” colleges that you would be willing to attend if all else fails 2. 2 colleges you will likely get accepted to and one of which is your #1 or #2 school “reach” schools that are above your credentials but has been your dream to attend

The Process of Applying Junior year 1. Analyze interests, passions, values. 2. Determine the field(s) of study you are interested in pursuing 3. Research Colleges on the websites or catalogs: compare academic programs 4. Review factors to consider when choosing a college 5. Narrow down your choices of colleges (3-8) 6. Take the SAT/ACT test in the spring

7. Organize college material in folders; develop a resume including activities, leadership roles, community service and awards earned 8. Attend Spring College Fairs – Seattle University Saturday, March 26th 12-3 pm 9. Intercollegiate athletics: register with NCAA the summer after your junior year ( 10. Military academy appointments: start in April of junior year; lengthy process 11. Visit the top 2-3 colleges you are considering; they have tours and special weekends

Senior Year 1. Complete each application and send it electronically in most cases (Oct-Dec) Write essays (use prompt) as requested 2. Order official transcripts from the Counseling Department (Oct) 3. Have your SAT or ACT test scores sent to the colleges you are applying to. (Oct-Dec) 4. Attend College Fair

5. Complete the FAFSA application on line (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and submit it electronically if you are applying for financial aid. Also, check to see if the college requires any additional financial aid paperwork (Jan-Feb) 6. Visit the campuses of your top 2-3 schools (if you have not already done so) 7. Many families will want to compare financial aid packages offered by schools before making the final choice (Feb-Apr)

8. Apply for housing immediately after making your decision, if appropriate (Feb-Apr) 9. Put in writing your acceptance to the college of your choice ASAP. May 1 st is often the due date but check with the college 10. Apply for scholarships (Oct-May of senior year) Note: Recently some colleges have changed their application deadline to earlier dates.

Special Terms to Know Early Decision – apply early, get accepted early. This decision is binding Early Action – same as early decision but is not binding Rolling Admission – applications are reviewed as they are received; applicants who apply early are notified early Pooled Admission – all applications are analyzed during the same general time; Students find out later if they are accepted (Feb - Apr) Honors Programs and those wanting to be considered for top scholarships need to apply early, usually Nov 15 th or Dec 1 st. Check with each college. Honors Program students are usually accepted at an earlier date

Letters of Recommendations Select 2-3 teachers (1-2 core) or other adults that have worked with you in some capacity Ask them to write the letter for you Complete the letter of recommendation form (online at LHS website or paper copy) Give the adult 2-3 weeks to complete the letter Students applying for independent colleges or many out-of -state universities will need a counselor recommendation Write a thank you note to the writer

Common Mistakes in Applying Failure to read application directions; disorganized Incomplete applications and sloppy responses on apps and essays Lack of adequate research on colleges and admission requirements Failure to pay attention to deadlines for college application and scholarships Not visiting colleges; lack of understanding the culture of the chosen college Applying to only one 4-year school Lack of rigor in courses chosen senior year Dropping classes after 1 st semester senior year and/or low grades can result in your admission being revoked

Comparison of Senior Schedules For admission to an average college: Algebra 2 3 rd year World Language (CHS class) Social Studies class (AP) Core Elective i.e. Science English i.e. College Writing or AP English Elective of choice that fits in with future plans

Help from Counseling Office/Career Center Help you analyze career choices and provide resources. Give information on fields of study in colleges and recommend programs of study Help with internet searches and applications Write letter of recommendation, if appropriate Students can make an appointment for help at anytime! Answer your questions or give you resources on where to find the answer We welcome parents to come in for a session with your student

Finally, There is a College for Everyone! Some colleges do not require the SAT or ACT test scores (approx. 800 colleges). Some colleges will accept students with lower GPA’s Some will accept lower test scores. There are great colleges for students with special needs. Enjoy the journey!