THE ROAD TO COLLEGE Presented by The Counseling Department

Post Secondary Options College College 4 year college 4 year college 2 year college 2 year college Employment Career / Technical School Military

Finding a College 4 year vs. 2 year college Size Location Campus Culture Majors Academic Credentials Cost Extracurricular Activities Special Programs

HIT THE ROAD Visit school’s websites: General Information Requirements Deadlines Attend open houses and tours Attend open houses and tours Speak to current students Schedule interview (if offered)

DEVELOPING A LIST Be OPEN MINDED to schools Start with a larger list then narrow it when it is time to apply Ideally apply to 5-7 schools 1-2 Reach Schools /50 schools 1-2 Safe schools Consider academics and finances when developing your list.

TYPES OF ADMISSION Early Decision- - Early deadline, early response, BINDING Early Action – Early deadline, early response, NON-BINDING Rolling Admission – Students are accepted/denied as applications are received. Regular Admission – Apply by regular deadline (usu. Jan 15) and hear a response by April 1

WHAT COLLEGES ARE LOOKING FOR IN STUDENTS

FACTORS COLLEGES CONSIDER FOR ADMISSION DECISIONS Transcript GPA, Courses, & Grades SAT I, SAT II or ACT Scores Essay(s) Resume Extracurricular Activities Letters of Recommendation

STANDARDIZED TESTS Students must register to take the SAT I and/or ACT. We recommend taking both SAT and ACT. Test prep is absolutely essential to success on these tests. Chesapeake High School CEEB Code:

FINANCIAL AID FAFSA Submit ASAP after January 1 st but before March 1 st. Scholarships Local Regional / National

SCHOLARSHIPS Please access the Counseling Center’s website for Scholarship information as well as helpful websites

CLOSING THOUGHTS Visit the Counseling Center’s website often Be sure you are receiving s from Ms. Wilson, our secretary Keep the process in perspective Work together as a family Students must take ownership Discuss finances openly Start early and meet all deadlines