The College Selection and Admissions Process: Unveiling the Mystery Richard Montgomery High School April 9, 2008 Rebekah Porter Assistant Director of Admissions UMBC
Jan 21, 2016
The College Selection and Admissions Process: Unveiling the Mystery
Richard Montgomery High SchoolApril 9, 2008
Rebekah PorterAssistant Director of Admissions
UMBC
When to Begin
As always, the sooner the better, but more specifically:
• Freshman and sophomore years– Enroll in an academically rigorous curriculum– Earn good grades– Take the PSATs
When to Begin
• Junior year– Read mail and materials sent to you by colleges– Begin identify schools interested in visiting– Conduct campus visits– Take the SAT or ACT
• “New” SAT-a word about it
When to Begin
• Senior Year– Visit colleges and take advantage of special
program opportunities– Take the SAT or ACT again– Submit admissions applications in a timely
manner– Explore scholarship opportunities
How to Begin and What are the Options Available?
Goal:To find fit/match between student’s goals, interests, strengths and aspirations, and institutional goals and mission.
• Four Year Colleges and Universities– Public– Private– Research
• Two-Year Schools– Community College– Proprietary
The Application Process and Key Terms
• Early Action
• Early Decision
• Regular Decision/Priority Dates
• Rolling Admissions
• Open Enrollment
Why Are Application Deadlines So Important?
For Institution• Practicality...Thousands of applications
received• Brings order and structure to process• Feel for applicant pool
For Student• Priority consideration• Provides structure to process
Tip #1
Know important dates.
Post them.
Stick to them.
Early decision/Early action…
Know your obligations.
What Documents are Required for the Application Review Process?
• Application
• Transcript
• Essay
• Standardized Test Scores
• Letters of Recommendation
• Others (Interviews, Supporting Documents,
Portfolio, etc.)
Tip #2
• Be clear -
“required” vs. “recommended” • Submit completed application
packet
Who Reviews Applications for Admission?
• Admission Committee
• Admission Counselor
• Faculty Member
• Alumni
• Student
• All of the Above
Tip #3
Know Your Audience
What Factors are Considered in the Application Review Process?
• Academic Performance
• Strength of Curriculum
• Character
• Leadership Experience/Community Involvement
• Interests/Goals/Aspirations
• Standardized Test Scores (SAT or ACT)
Tip #4
The application packet represents you…
• Be creative
• Brag
• Be neat
• Put your best foot forward but most of all…
use spell check!
Re: Academic Performance
• Cumulative Grade Point Average
Weighted or Unweighted?
• Trends
Upwards
Downwards
Inconsistencies
Re: Curriculum
• Challenging curriculum
• College preparatory
• Well rounded curriculum (liberal arts and
sciences)
• Strong senior year curriculum
Re: Character
• Who are you?
• What are your moral strengths?
• What do you bring to a community of learners?
Re: Extracurricular Involvement
• Community Service
• Athletics
• Leadership Experience
• Work
Tip #5
• Share relevant experiences
• Include most recent activities and experiences
• Be descriptive not just listing
• Opportunity to enhance application packet
Re: Interests, Goals and Aspirations
• Essay/Personal Statement
• Interview
• Resumes
• Portfolios
Tip #6
Reflection of you.
Looking for fit…So make a connection.
Have others proof.
Re: Standardized Exams
• Which are required?
• Which are preferred?
• Are scores combined?
• Other exams required Subject Exams, TOEFL, etc.
Tip #7
• Be clear on test requirements.
• Include all scores you want considered.
• List upcoming test dates.
Admissions Decision
• Admit
• Not Admit
• Waitlist
• Request Additional Information
What if I’m Waitlisted?
• Respond to waitlist notice (if required)
• Submit additional (new) information
• Keep options open
What if I’m Not Offered Admission?
• Be honest with yourself
• Keep it in perspective
• Request feedback
• Offer new information
• Explore transfer options
What if I’m Offered Admission?
• Know your rights…May 1 National Decision Date
• Know your obligations…Early decision
• Respond to offer
Other Helpful Tips...
• Note selective majors/programs requiring additional application/documents.
• Document special needs.
• Be organized - calendars, folders, address labels, timelines, checklists.
• Keep copies.
Best Wishes!