1. Roadmap to College: Understanding the College Admissions Process

2. What Colleges Look For: Academic Record Grade Point Average (WGPA) Academic Rigor Test Scores School/Community Activities Letters of Recommendation Interviews Student Essays

3. Other Factors Which May Be Considered: Athletic Ability Special Talents Legacy Diversity Summer Experience Internships

4. What Students Look For Location Program Size School Personality (Fit) Cost Special Programs Admission Selectivity

5. College Application Process

6. Completing the Application Chance to make a good impression on colleges Read directions carefully Use same name on transcript/application Think before answering questions Have someone to proofread Have English Teacher proof essay

7. Completing the Application Be truthful Avoid errors Answer all questions asked Enclose application fee (unless there is an application waiver enclosed) Pay specific attention to deadlines Make a copy of everything you send

8. On-line Application College Foundation of NC (CFNC) Specific college websites Read directions prior to beginning process Multiple sessions vs one session Only use secure websites Submit downloaded forms to School Counselor Print copy for your records Verify that college received application

9. Common Application Used by over 500 colleges Used to apply for multiple colleges Saves time

10. How Many Applications: Reach School: those that are a reach for you academically or financially Probable School: those that will meet all your needs and will likely accept you Safe School: those which will make you happy and will be sure to accept you

11. College Essay College looks for skill using standard written English Ability to reflect true feelings or opinions about a subject Creativity and uniqueness evidencing fresh and original viewpoints

12. Letters of Recommendation Ask teacher, counselor, administrator, employer or clergy Someone who will recommend the student positively Helpful to provide a “bragg sheet” about yourself

13. The College Interview What is unique and distinct about the college What is unique and distinct about the student applying Types: Alumni Interviews, Group Interviews, Personal Interviews

14. Understanding Types of Admission Early Decision- binding agreement, apply early, decision made early by college, must attend if accepted Early Action- non-binding early decision Rolling Admission- applications evaluated upon receipt, decision letters sent as decisions are made Regular Admission- school deadline (Jan/Feb) Students notified early April