1. (Now how do I get there?)

2. * How many colleges should I apply to? * One or two “dream” schools * One or two “good fits” * One “sure thing” * Be realistic…. Make sure at least one school you apply to is affordable for you!

3. * Be sure you know the application fee. * If you qualify for free/reduced lunch, your application fees can be waived. See your counselor! * Talk to an alumnus. Sometimes private school alums can recommend you, and you’ll get the application fee waived. (If you’re at all interested in Southwestern University, see Mrs. Fajardo for a fee waiver!)

4. * For most Texas schools, you can go to www.applytexas.org * For most selective out-of-state schools, try using www.commonap.org

5. * You can also find links to applications on most college/university websites. * Start with the link for “Admissions” www.southwestern.edu

6. * Many schools, even public universities, offer automatic scholarships for academic accomplishments. Check the scholarship page of any university you are considering to see what money you are eligible to receive. * Competitive scholarships may have different deadlines and requirements (like additional essays) from the admissions deadlines. Be sure you know your deadlines!!

7. * How can I find out whether a college accepts AP credit or Dual credit? * The fastest/easiest way to find this out is through the Collegeboard website. It offers a link to any college’s AP acceptance policy. * DON’T make assumptions about what score a college will/won’t accept. Don’t take it on hearsay. CHECK the website! * www.collegeboard.org www.collegeboard.org

8. * Some schools require recommendations with applications; some recommend them; some don’t want or need them. Please see what your school requests! (Don’t ask teachers to write them if you don’t need one!) * When asking for a recommendation, be polite. You’re begging a favor! This is not part of a teacher’s job; they do it because they love you.

9. * We have a College/Career center here at the high school. * It has a LOT of resources on schools AND scholarships. * Use your counselor as a resource. Use your teachers as resources (they all went to college themselves!) * If you have questions about a particular school or your application, don’t be shy about calling the admissions office to ask questions!