1. Senior Parents’ Night Class of 2015

2. Tonight’s Topics College Trends Naviance Application Procedures Factors in Admissions Financial Aid

3. Senior Choice Day – Oct 15th College Visit Job Shadow Workshops at High School – Application assistance – Resume building – Interview tips – Scholarship information

4. College Trends Increased competition More students waitlisted Focus on “likely” schools Merit scholarships Need, gender may be factors Economic factors Demonstrated interest

5. College Trends (cont’d) Earlier deadlines Increased interest in state universities/community colleges Test optional colleges (www.fairtest.org) More students taking ACT Alternate start dates Gap year options

6. School Counseling Website Calendars/Important Dates Scholarship Information Forms for Students & Parents Links to NCAA, Naviance, College Board, etc.

7. Naviance http://connection.naviance.com/simsbury Scattergrams Five years of SHS college data College representative visit schedule Career exploration Document library Prep Me

8. Clemson University

9. Factors in Admission High school record Test scores (SAT and/or ACT) Essay Extracurricular activities Recommendations Underrepresented groups Major Demonstrated interest Ability to pay Interview Parent alumni

10. Application Process Read college website directions Talk with college representatives Request recommendations Begin online applications Write essay and resume Take SAT/ACT and send scores Transcript Request Form due: -15 school days prior to deadline Keep records

11. Student Sends ApplicationEssay Application fee SAT/ACT scores Specific program requirements (music, art, theater, etc.)

12. Student Brings to Counselor Transcript Request Form $4.00 per transcript Resume (upload to Naviance) Student Questionnaire (if necessary) (if necessary) Parent Questionnaire (if necessary) (if necessary)

13. Counselor Sends Official Transcript Recommendations SHS Profile 1 st Quarter Grades (if requested) Mid-year Grades Final Transcript

14. Financial Aid FAFSA CSS Profile (for specific colleges) School Counseling Webpage – Financial Aid Links Local Scholarships in January Contact Financial Aid Offices New England Regional Tuition Program Financial Aid Program - Nov. 13th

15. Final Thoughts Acceptance is conditional Students should take proactive role Counselors will continue to promote SHS Widen choices Two or more “Likely Schools” Find the best fit! Stay calm!