Selecting a College-Find the Right Fit1).pdf · The College and Career Center (CCC) have a variety of college and career-related books, brochures, videos and online tools. The College

Selecting a College-Find the Right Fit There are nearly 4,000 colleges and universities in this country, with a wide variety of features to serve diverse student interests. With so many choices you may wonder how to find a college that is a “good fit” for you . Although there is no right or wrong way to research colleges, many students find it helpful to visit a few schools that differ in size, location, academic programs, or selectivity so see which characteristics are important to them. Listed below are a number of criteria to consider in selecting a college.

PROGRAM

Admissions: How selective is the school? Does your coursework match the school’s requirements for admission? Is your GPA and SAT/ACT score typical of accepted students? Curriculum : Does the college offer the major that interests you? Is there a core curriculum required and what does it look like? What research or internship opportunities are available to you in your field of interest?

PEOPLE

Student body: Do your personality and values mesh well with the other students? Fraternities and sororities: Is there a Greek system on campus? Are a high percentage of students in fraternities or sororities? Religious orientation: Is the institution affiliated with an organized religion? Does the academic and social life reflect this? Sports/Activities: Does the school have the sports or extracurricular programs you are interested in? How easy is it to join?

PLACE

Size of the school : Would you like to attend a large, medium, or small school? Visit each type before narrowing your choice. Geographical location: Do you want to attend college in the Chicago area, in Illinois, or out of state? What transportation is available? Size of the community: Is the campus setting urban, suburban or rural? What are the advantages/disadvantages for you?

PRICE

Cost : What is the total cost of attendance for one year (tuition, room, board, books, travel, etc.)? Can you afford this school? Remember; do not rule out a school based on the listed price. What is important is the cost AFTER scholarships and financial aid that may be available. Families can estimate the true cost of a college by using the net price calculator on the school’s website.

College Admissions Selectivity Some colleges use a holistic approach to admissions, looking at factors such as extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, interviews and essays. At other schools, your grade point average (GPA) and standardized test scores are the primary determinant of admission. As an applicant, these factors can help you see whether the school is a “good fit” academically. You want a school where you are challenged, not overwhelmed. For many years the standard for measuring college selectivity was the use of the “mid 50%” statistic. This statistic reports the range of GPA and test scores (ACT or SAT) for the middle 50% of incoming freshmen. You should compare your credentials to the “mid 50%” averages for schools on your list. If you have not taken an ACT or SAT yet, it is possible to estimate an anticipated score based on the results of your PLAN or PSAT test scores. Depending on whether your GPA and scores are above, within or below the mid 50% range determines whether the school is a safety, target , or reach school. You should be sure to include safety schools that you want to attend on your college list. You can also use Naviance Scattergrams (below) to determine how selective a college is. These scattergrams analyze application data from BGHS. This allows you to compare your grades and test scores to past BGHS students who applied to a school. You can then assess whether a school is a safety school, a good fit, or a reach school.

Please note that scattergrams are a display of self-reported historical data from BGHS students. Not all admission decisions were reported to BGHS.

College Search Online College Search Websites Once you have a sense of what characteristics are important to you, online college search websites are a great way to find way colleges that meet your criteria. The following are links to two popular college search websites: Here are a few ways you can use Naviance to create your list of colleges:

College Lookup – Find in-depth information on admissions standards, financial aid availability, offered majors, and student life at individual colleges you are researching. You can link directly to college websites and in some cases take a virtual tour of campus.

College Search – This interactive survey allows you to develop a list of colleges based on what is important to you, such as college majors, location, religious affiliation, and favorite activities or sports. If you use Naviance to find colleges that meet your search criteria, you should save those schools under the “Colleges I’m Thinking About” section of your Naviance account.

College Match – Once you have several schools listed in “Colleges I’m Thinking About”, this matching feature will identify other schools that may be similar to the ones you have chosen.

Scattergrams – This amazing tool allows you to see how your ACT and grade point average compares to other BGHS students who have been accepted or denied admission to a particular college.

Visit Schedule –Check out what college admissions officers are visiting BGHS and use these visits to learn more about schools of interest.

College Maps –Find schools of interest and see their location displayed on interactive maps. This is great for planning college visits!

Other College Search Resources: College and Career Center (CCC) The College and Career Center (CCC) have a variety of college and career-related books, brochures, videos and online tools. The College Career Center staff is available to answer questions and help you with each step of the college search. College Websites College websites are the most up-to-date place to find specific information on colleges. Look up admissions criteria, academic majors, cost, size, setting and more. Use the admissions blog to interact with current students.

College Reps Over 100 admissions representatives visit BGHS during the school year. This is a great way for you to meet in a small group with reps from your colleges of interest. Rep visits occur mainly September-November and again in March-May. College rep visits are posted outside the CCC, on Naviance, and in the daily announcements. You must obtain a pass from the CCC in advance of the visit and get your teacher’s permission to be excused from class. Turn in the completed form to a CCC staff member when you meet with the rep. College Night Programs The college counselors of D214 plan many specialized college night programs throughout the year. Campus Visits A campus visit is the best way to see what a college is like. Check the college’s website for information about visiting the college. It is best to call the college 1–2 weeks before your visit to find out what types of tours, sessions and activities may be available to you. During your visit, try to meet with someone from the admissions office or attend an information session. Ask if they can arrange for you to meet with a professor or representative from the department in which you are interested. Take a tour of the campus, talk to students, have a meal in the cafeteria, and pick up copies of the student newspaper. Some colleges also can arrange for you to sit in on a class. If you want to stay overnight in a residence hall, ask if that can be arranged. College Fairs The college counselors of District 214 host a College Fair each April with representatives from over 200 campuses across the US. This is a great way to begin your search. Also, the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC) usually hosts a Chicago fair in the fall.

College Athletics NCAA The NCAA, or National Collegiate Athletic Association, was established in 1906 and is the athletics governing body for more than 1280 colleges, universities, conferences and organizations. NCAA schools are divided into three divisions. Division I and II members may offer athletics scholarships, while Division III schools may not. For more information, visit www.ncaaeligibiltycenter.org . NAIA The NAIA, or National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, founded in 1937, includes nearly 300 smaller colleges. A list of these colleges may be found at www.naia.org. Over 90% of NAIA colleges offer athletic scholarships. All students who want to become either NCAA or NAIA athletes should attend the D214 NCAA Night in November and read the D214 Student-Athlete Handbook. These resources have valuable information about the recruitment and application process.

Special Needs College Options There are many colleges that are able to serve students with special needs. The range of services and associated costs vary widely. Students should work closely with their case manager and college counselor as they begin planning for college to determine the specific needs of the student and each college or university’s ability to provide these services. Students may want their IEP, 504, or other documentation made available to their chosen college. The College Career Center staff can guide them on how and when to advise each school. Special accommodations for ACT and SAT testing need to be arranged well in advance of the test date. Students looking for Special Education College Programs are encouraged to pick up a copy of Directions: A College Guide for Students with Special Needs from the CCC and attend the District 214 Directions College Fair. Factors To Consider When Choosing A College With thousands of colleges and universities from which to choose, your task can be

challenging. However, if you take the time to think about some of the following

considerations, the decision will be easier.

Academic Environment

Will this college admit me?

Have I satisfied the course or other academic requirements of the college?

Are my test scores in the appropriate range for this school?

Are the standards appropriate for my abilities and interests?

What are the procedures for student orientation, class placement, and

scheduling? Are classes guaranteed?

How is a faculty assigned to a student?

What services does the school offer for the student who is undecided about a

major?

What courses are required for all freshmen?

When will I have the opportunity to study with full professors rather than

graduate students?

What are the typical class sizes for first year students and upper class

students?

What is the availability of counseling or tutorial programs in the event that I

experience academic difficulty?

How many students in last year’s freshman class returned for sophomore year?

Where do graduates of this college attend graduate school?

What kind of professions and careers do they enter after graduation?

Majors Most students change their majors at least once during their college careers. With this in

mind, you should have a general idea of at least two or three areas that interest you, and

you may want to consider how strong those departments are at the colleges you are

considering.

Geographic Location For some students, attending a college close to home is a priority while others choose to be

far away. Perhaps as important as the distance from home is the type of college

community.

Where is the college located (city, suburb, small town, or rural)?

What is the distance from home?

If coming home for holidays and long weekends is important, are distance,

transportation costs and availability prohibitive?

Do you prefer a location where you have relatives or close friends?

What types of transportation options are there? Can I have a car on campus?

Is there parking available for students? Is there a cost?

What are some aspects of the geographic and cultural diversity on campus?

What is the surrounding community like?

Is there a particular part of the country where you have always wanted to live?

Size of Campus

Large Campus 15,000-50,000 students

Medium-sized Campus 5,000-15,000 students

Small Campus Under 5,000 students

Affordability/Financial Aid

What is the total cost of attendance? This includes: tuition, room and board,

books/school supplies, travel, and personal expenses.

How much did cost increase from last year to this year?

Is there a difference in the cost for in-state and out-of-state students?

What percent of students receive financial aid based on financial need?

What percent of students receive scholarships based on academic ability?

What would be a typical financial aid package for a freshman?

What are the financial aid application procedures and deadlines?

Will my financial aid be adjusted if my need increases?

Is there a tuition payment plan?

Are there campus jobs available?

Social Life

What is the average age of the student body?

What is the male to female ratio?

What percent of students reside on campus?

Are dorms co-ed or single sex?

Is it a “suitcase college” where many of the students leave on the

weekends?

What are the procedures for selecting a roommate?

Are there athletic activities, clubs, and Greek life?

What events or activities are available on campus?

Common Mistakes Made In The College Selection Process Being Passive

● Letting the choice just happen instead of taking charge of the process. ● Following the lead of your friends. ● Taking any suggestion without studying it first. ● Not deciding for yourself. ● Applying to many colleges indiscriminately so you can postpone thinking about which

one to attend. ● Remember the college selection process is something you make happen, it

doesn’t happen to you! Make a plan and then work the plan. Pleasing Others

● Applying to colleges you are not really interested in, just pleasing others or impressing them with where you were accepted.

Losing sight of your main reason for going to college ● Take some time to examine both your head and your heart! ● Think about who you are, what you like, and what you do not like. Then set out to find

the “RIGHT FIT”! Questions to Ask a College Representative When visiting with a college representative, ask plenty of questions to ensure you choose the college that best match your needs. Below is a list of suggested questions that will get you started when meeting with a college representative. Ask questions about Academics

● What majors or programs do you offer? ● Is my degree program accredited? ● What percent of your students graduate within 4 years/5 years? ● Do you have internship opportunities available on campus, or in the community? ● Will I have an advisor to help me with program, major and graduation requirements? ● When do I have to declare a major of study? ● How difficult is it to get the class schedule I need? ● What is the average class size? ● Do you have an honors program? ● Do students have the opportunity participate in research on campus? ● Do you offer academic support services if I need them? ● What options/support do you have for study abroad?

Ask questions about Admissions:

● What are your admission requirements? ● What is your application process? ● What is the deadline for your application? ● If I go to a community college first, will my credits transfer?

Ask questions about Student Life:

● What type of housing is available for students? ● How many students are enrolled at your college? ● Tell me about the student organizations and activities on campus? ● What kinds of social, cultural and recreational activities are available on campus and in

the community? ● How safe is your campus? What precautions does the campus provide for student

safety?

Ask questions about Financial Aid:

● What type of financial aid is available? ● When and how do I apply for financial aid? ● What scholarships are available through your school and when /how should I begin

apply for them? ● What is the total cost of attendance for your school including tuition, room and board,

books and fees? ● Is it easy to get a part-time job on campus, in the community?

Ask questions about Technology: ● What equipment and software do you currently use on campus? ● Tell me about the technology services and support on your campus.

Ask questions about Career Services: ● What type of career placement assistance do you offer? ● What types of jobs are your graduates getting? ● What is your job placement rate for my major?

Campus Visits: A Necessity

There’s no substitute for seeing a college yourself!

Before Your Visit Plan ahead. Most schools offer a number of visit options for you and your family. This might include an open house, campus tour, meeting faculty and students in your major, classroom visits or shadow programs. It is important to register for your campus visits online at each schools website or call to schedule a visit. Plan now. Popular schools close their registration for visits when full. Research the school before your visit. Look up information online and in the College/Career Center. Create a list of questions, which are meaningful to your search. Dress neatly in case you have the opportunity to meet privately with an admissions representative. Wear comfortable shoes –some walking tours can be relatively long. The Visit: A thorough visit consists of the following:

● An appointment with an admission officer. ● A tour of the campus facilities. Make sure this includes the library, student union,

residence halls, athletic facilities and facilities important to your major. ● Attending a class or two. This could take place while parent meet with a financial aid

officer. ● An appointment with a professor in your field(s) of interest. ● Going to the Placement Office to determine which employers recruit the school’s

graduates and the job outlook for graduates in the field(s) of student interest. ● Pick up a school/student newspaper. ● Talk with students on campus. ● Take time to look around on your own. Tour the local community to explore the

resources available in it and the degree of acceptance of the school and its students. ● Optional but very informative. Stay overnight in a dorm. The admissions office may be

able to arrange for such accommodations.

After the visit - Write down your impressions while they are still fresh in your mind.

College Comparison Worksheet

Comparative Criteria CAMPUS 1 CAMPUS 2 CAMPUS 3 COLLEGE NAME

LOCATION ● Location & size of nearest city ● Transportation required (Air, train,

car)

ENVIRONMENT ● Setting (urban, rural) ● Co-ed, male, female ● Enrollment ● Religious affiliation

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ● Deadlines ● Tests required ● Average test scores, GPA ● Required application materials

SELECTIVITY RATING FOR YOU: ● Safety, Good Fit, Reach

ACADEMICS ● Majors that interest you ● Classes taught by professors or

assistants? ● Largest class size/Typical class size ● Academic resources available ● Percent of returning freshmen ● Graduation rate

COLLEGE EXPENSES ● Tuition, room & board ● Estimated total budget ● Application fee & deposit

FINANCIAL AID ● Deadlines/Required forms ● % of students receiving aid ● Scholarships available

HOUSING ● Residence hall availability ● Residence hall requirement ● Room types and sizes ● Food Plan ● Percent of students living on campus

ACTIVITIES ● Clubs, organizations ● Varsity, club, intramural sports ● Typical weekend activities

IMPRESSIONS: ● Personal reaction ● Rank/Order of Preference

Standardized Testing: The ACT, SAT & More An important part of preparing for the college application process is to take standardized college entrance exams. Most colleges require either the ACT or SAT for admissions purposes, but some will require additional tests listed below. Check with individual colleges as to which entrance exams are required for admission.

Pre SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) This is an optional test mainly taken by juniors and some sophomores in October. PSAT scores are not reported to colleges but may be used to predict SAT score. Additionally, this test is used as the first step in qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship Program. High scoring juniors will be designated as National Merit semi-finalists and will be asked to take an SAT Test and fill out an application in order to be considered for the National Merit scholarship. Students interested in the PSAT must register in advance with Buffalo Grove High School’s assessment coordinator.

SAT Reasoning Test The SAT test measures the critical thinking skills needed for college success such as the ability to analyze and solve problems. The SAT tests both critical thinking and achievement in three sections: critical reading, math and an optional writing section. Scoring will range from 200-800 for reading and math for a maximum of 1600 points. The optional writing section is scored from 2-8 and is reported separately.

SAT Subject Tests SAT Subject Tests measure how well a student has mastered a particular high school subject. A number of highly selective colleges require two or three SAT Subject Tests for admissions, one of which must be math. Each test is a 60-minute multiple-choice exam. There are 20 different subject tests and students may register for up to three on any given test date. It is recommended that students interested in applying to selective colleges take SAT Subject Tests upon completion of a course in a subject that they do not plan to continue (e.g. biology, chemistry, U.S. history).

ACT Test

The ACT is curriculum-based and tests four areas: English, mathematics, reading, and scientific reasoning. Sub-scores ranging from 1-36 will be given in each of these areas as well as an overall composite score. The ACT test also includes an optional writing test. .

Advanced Placement (AP) Test

These are three-hour comprehensive examinations given in May, based on a college level course taken in high school. Students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses prepare for these exams within their classes. The most selective schools may consider AP scores in admissions decisions, but the scores are primarily used for college credit and/or placement into higher-level college courses. Registration and testing are handled directly through the Assessment Center. College websites generally contain information on which AP exams they will accept, the score required for college credit, and the college courses for which you will receive credit. More info, go to: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/about.html .

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) These exams provide students of any age the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement through a program of exams in undergraduate college courses. CLEP tests are given at the college or university including Harper College. Depending on the scores, the students may earn college credit or advanced placement at the institution.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) The TOEFL is a computer-based test used to measure the English proficiency of students who have been speaking English for less than 5 years. This test is used in the admission process in addition to the ACT or SAT requirement. For more information, go to http://www.toefl.org/

Why Should I take the PSAT or SAT? ALL colleges accept either the SAT or the ACT as the primary test for admissions purposes and ALL Illinois juniors will take an SAT with the optional writing portion in Spring. Students will have at least one standardized test score for admission at any school across the country. For these reasons, students often wonder if they should take the PSAT or SAT. We encourage students to consider taking either the PSAT to predict future performance on the SAT or the SAT in addition to the ACT exam. The SAT/ACT Score Comparison chart at http://www.act.org/solutions/college-career-readiness/compare-act-sat/ can be used to determine equivalent scores between the two tests. For most students, we recommend taking the ACT and SAT in the spring of their junior year. Additional tests may be taken in the summer or early fall, if needed. Refer to the Assessment Center page of the BGHS website for the most updated information about standardized test dates, test registration and test preparation.

Test Prep The best preparation for the ACT and SAT is to take challenging high school core courses and to work hard to learn the material. A variety of test preparation materials (books, online, classes, etc.) are available if you desire further preparation. Buffalo Grove High School offers Test Preparation classes. In addition the Khan Academy which is part of the College Board is an online test prep for the SAT.

The College Application Process While the counselors and College Career Center staff are here to support all BGHS students, it is the STUDENT who is responsible for submitting all applications, fees, essays, official test scores, and supplemental materials to colleges. If you are planning to attend a two or four year college, the application generally consists of the following:

● Required: o The application itself (online) o Application fee or waiver o Transcript o Official test scores (ACT or SAT)

● Supplementary materials required by some colleges: o Secondary School Report or Counselor Form o Counselor and/or teacher recommendations o Personal statement or essay o Activities Resume o Interview o Portfolio (for Fine Arts programs)

The Application The application is the form on which you supply contact information, college major to which you are applying, and other general information. You should be completing your college applications during the fall of your senior year. Most colleges prefer that applications are filed online. Check each college’s website for their online application.

Common Application Almost 700 colleges and universities accept the “Common Application”. If you are applying to more than one Common Application School, you can fill out the Common Application one time and use it to apply to multiple colleges. Some of these schools may require supplemental questions and essays in addition to those on the Common Application. For a complete list of Common Application Schools and the Common Application forms, visit the website: https://www.commonapp.org. Regardless of the type of application you file, please:

● Make a careful list of the materials required to complete the application, such as an official transcript or counselor recommendation form. Be sure to request these supplemental materials with plenty of time for them to be completed and mailed by the application deadline date. ● Fill out the application carefully and completely. If you are working online, save your application regularly, so that you do not lose your work. ● Pay close attention to the application deadlines and be sure to submit ALL materials by the deadline date.

Application Fee or Fee Waiver Most applications require a fee with the application. Students on Free and Reduced Lunch or on a fee waiver are eligible and should stop by the College Career Center (CCC) for the procedures on requesting a fee waiver. Transcript All college applications require a student’s official transcript sent directly from the high school. You will need to request the transcript via Parchment for institutional applications and your student’s counselor will send for all Common Applications. While transcripts are usually sent electronically and are sent out quickly, at peak periods it can take weeks to process requests. Please allow 15 school days for a transcript to be sent. Test Scores Buffalo Grove High School does not send ACT or SAT test scores. It is the responsibility of the student to send test scores to all colleges to which they apply. Most colleges will use the highest test score when multiple scores have been sent. Some colleges will combine the highest subscores from multiple tests in order to compute a higher composite score. For this reason, it is a good idea for students to send all scores. Please check with each college to determine their policy. At the time of registration for the ACT or SAT, you may specify up to four colleges to send your scores for no additional cost. If you would like to send scores to additional colleges at a later time, you must contact ACT or SAT and pay an additional fee. Students will have the option to choose scores from one or more test dates to send to a college.

For ACT: www.actstudent.org For SAT or SAT Subject Tests: www.collegeboard.com

When reporting ACT scores, you can choose to submit test scores from a specific testing date or submit all your test scores. Students often prefer to send only their tests with the highest composite scores. However, some selective schools require ALL scores to be sent. Other colleges use the highest test score when multiple scores have been sent. And other colleges combine the highest subscores from multiple tests to compute a higher composite score, known as a “superscore”. For these reasons, it may be a good idea for students to send all test scores. Check with each college to determine their policy.

Counselor Letter of Recommendation-Secondary School Report or Counselor Form Your application may require a Secondary School Report, Counselor Form, or letter of recommendation from your counselor. Complete the Counselor Recommendation Questionnaire in Naviance BEFORE asking your counselor to complete these documents so that your counselor has the information needed to write a strong recommendation. Use the checkboxes on the ANR to indicate if a letter and/or a counselor form are needed for the application. These documents will be prepared by your counselor and sent with the transcript. Allow at least 15 school days for your counselor to write your letter. Teacher Letter of Recommendations Some colleges require teacher recommendations. Ask your teacher in person to write a letter of recommendation and provide your teacher with any information that would be helpful to include in his/her recommendation. Also inform your teacher of application deadlines. The teacher will upload their recommendation directly to the electronic application. It is the student’s responsibility to follow up with their recommenders. Here are a few tips:

● Select a teacher of a core academic subject or class related to your career interest or major. Colleges prefer Junior or Senior year teachers. It is best if the teacher knows you very well as a student – your interests, abilities and motivation.

● Ask the teacher in person if they can honestly give you a positive recommendation. If they hesitate or have reservations, you should ask someone else.

● You can ask one teacher to provide recommendations to multiple schools. Complete a Teacher Recommendation Request Form to list all your colleges that need recommendations, their due dates and whether they are Common Application Schools.

● Ask the teacher what they need to write you a letter or recommendation. They may interview you or ask you to complete an Information Form for Teacher Recommendation to get an in-depth description of your academic strengths, interests, goals and future plans.

● Colleges look most favorably on recommendations you have waived the right to review (i.e., sent to the college directly from the person writing the rec. letter).

● Allow at least 15 school days for a teacher to write your letter ● Send a thank you note to the teacher when the application process is over.

Senior /Activities Resume A senior/activity resume is a brief, easy-to-read, summary of your academics, honors, extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences and work experience. In some cases, the resume can be used in lieu of completing the activity section on a college application. A resume is only recommended when the application does not provide enough space for you to list, in greater detail, a description of your activities and experiences. Some colleges/universities require that you complete the activities section of the application, so please read the instructions carefully!

Resume Writing Tips: 1. Limit resume to one page. 2. Include name and anticipated date of graduation as a heading. 3. Organize your activities into categories: academic recognition, extracurricular

activities, volunteer experiences and employment. 4. List your information in reverse chronological order with the most recent listed. 5. Appearance is very important. Use blank space, font size, bold, italic and underline

features, and indent or tab features to create an outline effect. 6. Be sure to proofread for errors. 7. Be sure to highlight leadership positions. 8. You can use the resume-writing feature in Naviance to help you with formatting your

resume. Sample Senior/Activities Resume:

Benny Bison

Graduation Date-June 20__

Academic Recognition

Honor Roll 6 semesters 20__-current Student of the Month-Science Grade 10 February 20__ Extracurricular Activities

Name of Activity Grades 9,10,11,12 20__-current Name of Activity Grades 11,12 20__-current Volunteer Experiences

Volunteer Experience 20__-current 2 hours per week Volunteer Experience 20__-20__ 1 hour per week Employment

Name of Employer Summer 20__ 40 hours per week Name of Employer Summer 20__ 15 hours per week Essays

Many colleges require some form of written work from the applicant. The admissions office will be judging your ability to use the English language and your ability to follow directions. Required writing works are generally classified as an essay, personal statement, a professional statement, or a writing sample. These are described below: Essay: Often times, students are given an essay question or several to choose from and asked to respond in writing to the question. When given a choice of questions, your choice, in itself, begins to tell the admissions office something about you.

Personal Statement : The purpose of the personal statement is to allow the admissions representative to learn something more about you not found in the application. This is your opportunity to show your unique characteristics. In rare cases, students may use the personal statement to explain an extenuating circumstance that caused the student’s credentials to be less favorable than their true ability. Professional Statement : The professional statement should detail the student’s interest in a particular major and/or future career aspirations. The student should talk about how and when his interest began and what experiences he/she has sought to further explore his/her interest area. Writing Sample: Schools that require a writing sample are merely asking that you send a representative sample of your writing ability. This could be a written assignment from any past class of which you are proud and for which you received a good grade. Tips for creating a strong essay:

● Write an essay to express your uniqueness. Do not include information already listed on the application or transcript.

● Follow the directions. Answer the question that is asked or write about what they are looking for. If there is a request on the number of words to provide, adhere to it.

● Prepare an essay that fits the request of each college. “Generic” essays that are written to fit a wide range of circumstances and do not address or identify a specific college are easily detected and of little value. Show the admissions professional that you care enough about their school to consider it individually.

● Leave yourself time to rewrite and revise. Some schools release their essay questions the summer before senior year. Use that time to get started.

● Don’t just spell check your essay, take time to proofread it. Check for grammar, spelling, capitalization, punctuation, awkward phrasing, cliché’s, vague/ dull statements, organization, and content flow.

*Visit the College Career Center, the Literacy Lab or talk to your English Teacher for additional references and support regarding how to write college essays. Interview Some colleges MAY require or recommend an interview for admission or for scholarships. The interview may be conducted by a representative of the college’s admission staff or by an alumni living in your local community. The interview is an additional opportunity for you to highlight your uniqueness, your personality, and what you can bring to the desired college.

1. Schedule the interview in advance. Arrange your interview with the college admissions office at least three or four weeks in advance by telephone or email.

2. Make a good first impression. Arrive for your appointment on time or a few minutes early. Dress neatly, be punctual, and shake hands initially and at the end of the interview. Make direct eye contact with the interviewer and listen attentively.

3. Be prepared. Consult the college’s materials and website so that you can ask appropriate questions portraying your genuine interest in the school.

4. Be prepared to discuss your academic and extracurricular record quite specifically. Focus on what you have accomplished and how these experiences have helped shape who you are.

5. Show genuine interest and enthusiasm for the college. Ask questions of your own.

6. Remember that the college is interested in interviewing you, the prospective student, not your parents. It is perfectly acceptable for your parents to accompany you to the admission office and even greet the admission representative or ask a pressing question or two.

7. Than the interviewer for his/her time and ask for a business card or contact information. Follow up with a thank you note.

Sample Questions:

● Tell me about yourself. ● Describe yourself in three words. ● What is the reason for participating in athletics, yearbook, and student government…? ● How did you come to consider our campus? ● How do you spend your free time? ● What is the overriding consideration in your choice of a college? ● What was the last book you read that was not required for class? ● Whom do you admire?

Financial Aid As college costs continue to soar, financial aid and your expected family contribution toward college costs have become an increasingly important part of the college selection process. What is financial aid? Financial aid is the combination of resources (loans, work-study or grants) that supplement what the family is expected to contribute toward the costs of a college education. Financial aid can be divided into two basic categories: merit aid and need-based aid. Merit aid can be based on both academic and personal achievements, while the family and/or the student’s ability to pay the costs of education determine need-based aid. Financial need is determined by subtracting the government calculated family contribution from the cost of education: Cost of Attendance - Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial Need Cost of Attendance (COA) - The total amount it will cost a student to go to college for an academic year, including tuition and fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, costs associated with a disability, and miscellaneous expenses. The college sets this figure. Expected Family Contribution (EFC) - An amount determined by a formula established by the Federal Government that indicates how much of a family's financial resources should be available to help pay for school.

It is important to know that your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is the same regardless of the cost of the college. Because expenses at colleges vary and the amount the family is expected to pay remains the same, you could be eligible for more aid at a higher cost college than a lower cost college. Additionally, merit and athletic scholarships may also be offered based on the student’s academic success or special talents and are usually not related to financial need. For all these reasons, students should not be deterred from applying to schools with higher tuition costs if they are a good fit. You can get an early estimate your expected family contribution and financial aid eligibility by using the Net Price Calculators posted on individual college websites. If you qualify for either merit or need-based aid, colleges and universities

will mail a letter summarizing financial aid packages, usually in April of senior year. The best contact each family has while applying for financial aid is the financial aid administrator at each of their student’s colleges.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The first step in securing financial aid and scholarships is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used to determine a student’s eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study aid. The FAFSA is also used by Illinois to determine state aid and by colleges and universities across the country as the starting point for determining school-specific financial aid and scholarships. The online FAFSA application is the fastest and most accurate way to process your information. ALL students applying to college should complete the FAFSA when the form becomes available. This is the time when available funding is the greatest.

● FAFSA – Free Application For Federal Student Aid - www.fafsa.ed.gov

● FAFSA FSA ID – The student and one parent must create a user-selected username and

password to authenticate their identify and electronically sign the online FAFSA

application.

● Student Aid Report (SAR) – A report generated after completion of the FAFSA. This report summarizes the family financial situation.

● Expected Family Contribution (EFC) – The EFC is reported on the SAR. The EFC is a number that measures your family’s financial strength. It is subtracted from the Cost of Attendance at the school(s) to which you have applied to determine financial need.

The CSS Financial Aid PROFILE The CSS PROFILE is the financial aid application service of the College Board. Some private and highly selective colleges may require this form in addition to the FAFSA to help them award non-federal student aid funds.

● CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE – https://profileonline.collegeboard.com

Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)

ISAC provides financial assistance for college education in Illinois colleges through the many grant, scholarship, loan, and prepaid tuition plans it administers.

● Illinois Student Assistance Commission – http://www.collegeillinois.org

Scholarships are a great way to secure additional funds for your education, since scholarships are “gift aid” that does not need to be paid back. Scholarships are awarded for athletic and academic talent as well as participation in such things as extracurricular activities, job experiences, and volunteer and community service. Some scholarships are based on personal information such as where you attended elementary school, your ethnic background or even your height!

Merit scholarships are offered directly from the college or university to students with high academic credentials or special talents. These scholarships are sometimes offered to the student when they are notified of admission. Other times students need to research scholarship opportunities on the college financial aid tab. Financial need is usually not a factor in the determination of merit scholarships. Securing scholarships from local or national businesses and nonprofit groups involves an investment of time. Students must research scholarships that match their qualifications. Scholarship applications often require essays, teacher recommendations, ACT/SAT scores, and a transcript. Students will find information on many local and national scholarships through the College Resources page of the Buffalo Grove High School website and the Naviance Scholarship page. Scholarships are also advertised on the monitors throughout the school. When students want more information about local scholarships, they should review the scholarship files in the CCC. Students should pay attention to scholarship deadlines.

Be Aware of Scholarship Scams Scholarships and financial aid offers that show up in the mail and on the Web may be the tools

of con artists designed to “con” students and parents. Be aware of the following phrases:

“The scholarship or service is guaranteed or your money back.”

“You can’t get this information anywhere else.”

“May I have your credit card or bank account to register or hold this scholarship?”

The scholarship will cost some money, or there is an application fee

SPRING-JUNIOR YEAR

● Junior /Parent Information Night

● Ask the College - Panel Presentation

● Junior Student Guidance

● Naviance Familiarize yourself with your personal Naviance account. Complete the “Game Plan”, make sure you have completed both the “Career Interest Profiler” and “Do What You Are” personality type assessment, complete a college search and create a list of schools you are thinking about. Make sure you check for emails from the College Career Center and your counselor. Come to the College Career Center if you have any questions about Naviance. ● Develop a list of colleges to consider by using Naviance, resources in the College Career

Center and information obtained at guidance

● Junior Financial Aid Night

● District 214 College Fair Attend the District 214 College Fair to visit the representatives from over 250 colleges and universities. Review the handouts and explore the variety of academic programs and living environments available. Register to be on the mailing lists of schools that interest you. Before the college night, print out labels that include your contact information, high school name, graduation year as well as academic and/or athletic interests. These labels can be used to complete “request for information” cards. ● Meet with College Representatives Meet with visiting college representatives in the College Career Center at Buffalo Grove High School. Check Naviance and listen to daily announcements for an updated list of visiting schools. ● Schedule and take ACT Exam and/or SAT Exam.

● State SAT with writing

● Schedule Appointment with College Counselor This appointment provides students the opportunity to discuss their future plans, obtain additional information regarding the college application process and answer individual questions.

● Register with the NCAA/NAIA Eligibility Center Register with the National Collegiate Athletic Association, or NCAA Eligibility Center if you plan on competing in Division I or Division II college athletics. Register at www.elibibilitycenter.org. Register with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, or NAIA Eligibility Center if you plan on playing for member schools. A list of those colleges can be found at www.naia.org . Pick up a D214 Student-Athlete Handbook in the College Career Center. This booklet will guide you through the process of participating in athletics at the college level.

● College Visits Prepare for college visits you would like to make in spring and summer. Most campus tour schedules can be found on the school’s website. Make your reservations now. While on campus, meet with admission counselors, take a tour, meet with a professor in your academic area, sit in on a class, and look for opportunities to “connect” with college personnel. ● Writing Samples Save junior year graded writing assignments. Some colleges may require them as part of the application or in place of a required essay. ● Letters of Recommendations Begin thinking of teachers, coaches, sponsors or employers who know you well enough to write a letter of recommendation if required. Securing strong recommendations requires advance planning.

SUMMER-JUNIOR YEAR

● Academic/Activity/Volunteer/Employment Resume Summer is a good time to prepare a resume. The purpose of a resume is to highlight activities and/or employment that you have participated in during your high school years. Limit your resume to one page. The resume should include academic courses, extracurricular activities, community service, achievements, and awards. ● College Visits Prepare for college visits you would like to make in spring and summer. Most campus tour schedules can be found on the school’s website. Make your reservations now. While on campus, meet with admission counselors, take a tour, meet with a professor in your academic area, sit in on a class, and look for opportunities to “connect” with college personnel. ● Start working on college essays Many applications require some form of written work. This allows you to show who you are beyond your transcript and test scores. The admissions office will also be judging your ability to use the English language and follow directions. ● File of College Information/College Visits Now is a good time to organize a file of college information. This will help you plan visits to schools that interest you. ● Letters of Recommendations Begin thinking of teachers, coaches, sponsors or employers who know you well enough to write a letter of recommendation if required. Securing strong recommendations requires advance planning. ● ACT/SAT Retakes Review your test results to decide whether you should retake an exam in the Fall of your senior year. ● Consider a summer activity such as: Volunteer opportunities, internship, part time employment, etc. ● Finalize your list of colleges

Be sure your list includes “safety” schools, as well as good “match” and “reach” schools.

FIRST SEMESTER -SENIOR YEAR

Apply to colleges. Make decisions. Finish high school with pride in yourself and your accomplishments. ● Senior Guidance Attend senior guidance to learn details of the college application process, to review your transcript, and to check your progress towards graduation. Obtain general post high school planning information. ● Senior Parent Information Night Learn more about post high school options and the application process at BGHS. ● College Representative Visits Take advantage of meeting with college representatives that visit BG’s College/Career Center. Ask questions about their programs, application process, scholarships, financial aid or housing. ● Begin the College Application Process Seniors should begin applying to colleges in September. ● Teacher/Counselors Recommendations Request recommendations as soon as you know that you need them. College applications will indicate whether teacher and/or counselor recommendations are required and may have a form for you to give to the writer. ● Application Essays Prepare essays for college applications if required. ● Interviews/Auditions Schedule interviews or auditions if required or recommended as part of the application process. ● Application and Transcript Request Deadlines Because many Early Decision/Early Action application deadlines fall in November, early October is the time to finish applications for those schools. Note whether deadlines are “postmarked by” or “received by.” ● Follow Up Follow up to make sure all materials arrive at the colleges you have applied to. ● Stay Positive The application process and search for the “right” school can be exhausting and stressful at times. Please stop by the College Career Center if you need assistance.

● Attend District 214 Financial Aid Night Learn about the financial aid process and ask questions. ● FAFSA-Free Application for Federal Student Aid/Tax Returns FAFSA is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. File the FAFSA as soon as forms become available.

● College Career Center Closed for Winter Break Applications are not processed during this time.

SECOND SEMESTER-SENIOR YEAR

● Scholarships Use Naviance to find lists of local and national scholarship opportunities. Some applications may be picked up from the college/career center. Remember deadlines are absolute. Investigate scholarships available at the colleges you have applied to. Some colleges require you to fill out an application for scholarship separate from the application for admission. Please pay attention to deadlines.

● Avoid Senioritis Stay engaged in coursework and co-curricular activities. Enjoy the remainder of high school as you plan for college life after high school. Your attending college requires a final transcript, which includes your senior grades. Offers of admission can and have been rescinded due to poor senior performance. Any course changes need to be reported to the colleges you have applied to. ● Finalize Decisions Continue to review college acceptances and visit campuses as needed. Make enrollment/housing deposits. May 1st is the official deadline by which you must inform each college of your decision to enroll. Be considerate and notify the colleges you decide not to attend. Offers not accepted are

cancelled.

● Housing Make necessary housing arrangements. ● Health Record A copy of your health record will be distributed with your diploma at graduation. ● Final Transcript Information Form Due Attend senior meeting in April to complete senior exit survey and final transcript to be sent via Parchment.

Helpful Websites Buffalo Grove High School Website-bghs.d214.org-Under Student Resources

● Career Resources ● College Resources ● Assessment Center ● Naviance

Exploring Career Options ● Naviance bghs.d214.org ● Occupational Outlook Handbook www.bls.gov/ooh ● Illinois Career Site: Mapping your future www.mappingyourfuture.org/ ● ACT Career Clusters www.act.org/wwm/overview.htlm ● College Board www.bigfuture.collegeboard.org/explore-careers

Exploring College Options

● ACT www.actstudent.org ● College Board www.collegeboard.org ● College View www.collegeview.com

● Go College www.gocollege.com ● NACAC www.nacacnet.org/studentinfo/pages/default.asp ● Naviance bghs.d214.org ● Peterson’s Education Center www.petersons.com ● Princeton Review www.princetonreview.com ● Virtual Tours www.campustours.com

Testing ● AP Testing – send scores www.collegeboard.com ● ACT – register for test or send scores www.actstudent.org ● SAT – register for tests or send scores www.collegeboard.com ● TOEFL - register for test or send scores www.toefl.org

Financial Aid and Scholarships ● CSS Financial Aid Profile profileonline.collegeboard.com ● FAFSA forecaster fafsa4caster.ed.gov ● FAFSA on the Web www.fafsa.ed.gov ● FastWeb! Scholarship Search www.fastweb.com ● FinAid - Financial Aid Guide www.finaid.org ● Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) www.isac.org

Applications ● Common Application www.commonapp.org

Athletics ● NCAA Eligibility Center www.ncaaeligibilitycenter.org ● NAIA Eligibility Center www.playnaia.org

Professional Websites ● Architecture www.acsa-arch.org ● Law www.abanet.org ● Medicine www.aamc.org ● Physical Therapy www.apta.org ● Audio Engineering www.aes.org ● Pharmacy www.aacp.org ● Nursing www.aacn.nche.edu ; www.nursingworld.org ● Game Design www.igda.org ● Sport Management www.nassm.com

● Dental www.ada.org ● Veterinary www.aavmc.org

College Admission Competition Categories Colleges may consider several or all of the following factors in determining admission eligibility: pattern of high school coursework, grades in academic courses, test scores, college major, cumulative GPA, talents, leadership roles, community activities, evidence of exceptional motivation, letters of recommendation, athletic ability, and related career exploration.

Admission Competition Categories

Educational Opportunities in the United States

Mid-50% Range of ACT/SAT

Scores

Recommended High School Academic Subjects

Highly Competitive Colleges and Universities: These schools typically examine all aspects of a potential student’s application. Everyone who applies possesses the highest academic and personal qualifications.

Includes the 100 colleges and universities with the highest admission standards. Examples are Ivy League, some Big Ten, major independents (Duke, Northwestern, Notre Dame, Stanford, etc.), and premier liberal arts schools.

ACT: 29-33 SAT: 1950-2170

4 years English 4 years Adv. Mathematics 3-4 years Laboratory Science 3-4 years Social Studies 3-4 years Foreign Language 1 year Fine Arts Strong grades in honors and A.P. coursework are desirable.

Competitive Colleges and Universities: These schools attract good students. Many colleges fall loosely within this category. Admission criteria vary widely. Competition for specific academic programs within the university can be intense.

Includes Big Ten schools, most state university systems, most liberal arts colleges, and many conservatories and institutes.

ACT: 22-28 SAT: 1500-1890

4 years English 3 years Adv. Mathematics 3-4 years Laboratory Science 3 years Social Studies 2-4 years Foreign Language 1 year Fine Arts

Colleges and Universities with Open Admission: These schools have very liberal admission policies. They give every student a chance to try college-level work.

Some state universities are included, as are almost all community colleges.

ACT: 15-22 SAT: 1070-1470

4 years English 3 years Mathematics 2-3 years Science 2-3 years Social Studies 2 years Foreign Language Vocational education or fine arts courses may be acceptable.

Specialized Colleges and Conservatories: These schools are often oriented toward fine arts.

Includes the School of the Art Institute, Oberlin Conservatory of Music, etc.

Portfolios/ auditions weighted more heavily than test scores.

Same as Competitive Colleges category with the addition of specialized courses in the fine arts.

Trade and Technical Schools: These schools are most concerned with a student’s career aptitude.

Includes thousands of independent vocational schools throughout the United States.

Not always required

Emphasis on English, science, mathematics and vocational courses (applied tech., art, business, family and consumer sciences).

Types of Admission Decisions Colleges and universities have varying admissions practices described in their publications. Some of the most frequently mentioned practices include the following: ● Deferred Admission: Deferred admission is a plan that allows a student, once accepted, to postpone matriculation/enrollment for one year in order to pursue other plans like a Gap year. ● Deferred Decision: The college or university determines that more information is needed to make a final decision about a candidate’s application. Often the decision is delayed until seventh semester grades and/or new test scores are received. ● Early Decision Plan: (binding) If a student applies to a university Early Decision, the student is committing himself or herself to attend that college if admitted. The student may submit other applications during this period, but only one can be early decision. If accepted through the early decision program, the student must withdraw all other applications. ● Early Action Plan (non-binding): Early action is a plan that invites early application but does not require the student to attend if accepted. Application deadline is usually in early November; preferred date may be in October. Student may apply to as many “EA.” schools as they wish. ● Rolling Admissions: The college will notify the applicant as soon as the application has been processed (usually in four to six weeks) and the file is complete. It is to the student’s advantage to apply early. ● Open Admissions: Students are accepted upon application in open admissions (usually community colleges). Some programs in these same schools may have more selective admissions. ● Regular Admission: The process whereby a college accepts applications from prospective students and delays the admission decision until all applications from the entire applicant pool have been received. Decision letters are announced to applicants all at once, traditionally in March or April. The most selective colleges announce their decisions in early to mid April. ● Wait List: Institutions may initially delay offering or denying you admission. When placed on the wait list, the institution extends to you the possibility of admission in the future. Colleges offer admission to wait list candidates if insufficient numbers of regularly admitted candidates accept their offers of admission.

Glossary Accreditation- This amounts to a stamp of approval by an educational or professional organization stating that the college meets the regulations determined by this group. Each region of the country has its own accrediting organization: Southern, Middle Atlantic, New England, North Central and Western. ACT Assessment “ACT Test”- A group of tests administered by American College Testing and required or recommended by many colleges as part of the admission process. The tests measure educational development in English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning and are given at specified test centers throughout the year. Advanced Placement (AP) - Granting of credit and/or assignment to an advanced course on the basis of evidence that the student has mastered the equivalent of an introductory college course through an AP course taken in high school. Application fee - A non-refundable fee charged for making application to a particular college. Associate of Arts Degree- A degree granted by a college or university for a program that require two years of full-time study. Baccalaureate Degree-the Bachelor of Arts or Science or any other bachelor’s degree granted by a college or university for a program that typically requires four years of full time study. Calendar -

▪ Traditional semester: two approximately even semesters ▪ Quarter : three equal terms of about 12 weeks each and a possible optional summer

term ▪ Trimester: calendar year divided into three equal semesters; third semester replaces

summer school ▪ 4-1-4 or 4-4-1: two equal terms of about 16 weeks each studying 4 courses with a 4

week interim term studying one course Career-oriented program - A group of courses that prepare students primarily for employment, often in a specific occupation. Such a program which can last a few months or more than two years, may lead to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. For instance, Harper, Oakton, and Triton have such programs. College transfer courses - Courses intended for transfer of college credit to bachelor’s degree programs elsewhere. For instance, Harper, Oakton, and Triton have such courses. Common Application -A single application which is accepted by more than 500 institutions. Cooperative Education - A program integrating classroom study and work experience that offers college credit and a salary. Credit by Examination - A program through which some colleges grant course credit based on results of ACT or SAT scores, CLEP, AP, or another exam developed by the college. Credit Hour - A unit of academic credit that often represents one hour of class time per week for a period of study (semester, quarter, etc.). FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid - The application for federal student financial aid, processed at no cost to the applicant. It is used to determine a student’s eligibility for federal grant, loan, and work-study funds. Some schools may require an additional form for which there is a processing fee. Federal College Work-Study Program - A government supported financial aid program coordinated through financial aid offices whereby an eligible student (based on need) may work part time while attending class at least half-time, generally in college related jobs. To apply, file a FAFSA. Federal PLUS - A loan program in which parents can borrow from a bank or other lending institutions. To apply, file a FAFSA.

Federal Pell Grant - Financial assistance awarded by the federal government on the basis of extreme need and designed to provide the “floor” of an aid package for post-secondary education. The grant may be used toward tuition, room and board, books, or other educational cost, and requires no repayment. To apply, file a FAFSA. Federal Perkins Loan Program- Loans funded by the federal government and awarded by the institution. The loans feature low interest rates and are repayable over an extended period of time. To apply, file a FAFSA. Federal Stafford Loan Program- A loan program in which a student may borrow from a bank or other financial institution. The federal government may pay the interest on the loan while the student is in school. To apply, file a FAFSA. Financial Aid package- A combination of aid (possibly including a scholarship, grant, loan, and work) determined by a college financial aid office. Grants- Awards that are based on financial need and do not require repayment. Grants are available through the federal government, state agencies, and educational institutions. Honors Program - A plan designed to encourage superior students to engage in a more challenging program than is required. Students who succeed in meeting the requirements of an honors program are usually granted “honor” degrees. Liberal Arts- A broad course of instruction comprising the arts, natural sciences, language, literature, philosophy, religion, and the classics. The Latin origin of the term, arts liberates, literally means “the arts that free” (the mind and spirit). Matriculation - The process whereby a student is accepted, pays the fees, and enrolls in classes, officially becoming a student at the college. This term is only applied to freshman or to a transfer student’s first enrollment. NCCA Initial-Eligibility Certification- In order to participate in intercollegiate sports at NCAA Division I and Division II colleges, student-athletes must be certified through the NCAA. This includes submitting their ACT/SAT scores to the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Center. In order to have test scores sent to the Eligibility Center enter “9999” as one of the college choice codes. Placement Tests- A battery of tests designed to assess a student’s aptitude and level of achievement in various academic areas so that he or she may be advised to enroll in the appropriate level classes. Private College/University- an educational institution of higher learning that is not supported by public taxes. Private colleges may be independent or religiously affiliated. Public College/University- An ed.inst. of higher learning that is supported by public taxes. Registration- A process at the beginning of each semester or quarter whereby the student selects the courses he or she will enroll in, pays the appropriate fees, and sets up a class schedule for the semester or term. Religiously Affiliated College- A private college that is financially supported and whose policies are influenced to varying degrees by a certain religion. Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) - Air Force, Army, and Navy programs that combine military education with baccalaureate degree study, often with financial support for those students who commit themselves to future service in the Armed Forces. Scholarships- Non-repayable awards to students based on merit or talent. SAT Reasoning Test - A test of verbal, mathematical, and writing abilities required or recommended by many colleges as a part of the admission process. SAT Subject Test - A test measuring achievement across one of five subject areas: history, math, science, English and foreign language. There are twenty possible subject tests. Teaching Assistant - (sometimes called a graduate assistant) a graduate student whose job on campus is to teach, and often to grade, underclassmen. Transcript - The official record of a student’s academic performance from the time of entrance in a given institution to the end of the latest semester. Tuition - The charge for instruction. Generally designated for a year or semester for a full-time student; for part-time students it is often designated by the credit hour of a course. Room and board and books are separate, additional costs.

Universal Reply Date (May 1)- Unless a student has requested “early decision”, applicants have up to but no later than May 1 to notify colleges of their intent to attend in the fall. Responses earlier than May 1 are welcome but are equally as binding. On May 2, your spot may be granted to someone on a waiting list if you have not responded.