About Getting into College

Truth or Myth? College applications are expensive. It’s a Myth: It’s true that some college applications can be expensive, especially if you apply to a lot of schools. But it’s more myth than truth. Private colleges and universities often waive application fees based on financial need. Some state and private colleges/universities have a “common application,” which means you can fill out one application for admission at a group of colleges. Community colleges often have a free application.

 It’s a Myth (mostly):  It’s true that some college applications can be expensive if you apply to a lot of schools.  Private colleges and universities often waive application fees based on financial need.  Some state and private colleges/universities have a “common application,” which means you can fill out one application for admission at a group of colleges.  Community colleges often have a free application.

Truth or Myth? You can apply to a college 1-2 weeks before classes start.

 It’s a Myth:  Most 4-year colleges and university applications are due in winter or early spring – months before you will attend.  Community colleges also request applications early – generally you want to meet with an advisor to plan your schedule by mid to late May.  Classes fill up quickly!

Truth or Myth? Applying for Financial Aid is FREE.

 It’s True:  The first F in FAFSA stands for FREE!  The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the form you fill out in order to determine eligibility for Financial Aid.  Never pay for Financial Aid services! They are always free at the college you plan to attend.

Truth or Myth? It takes 4-6 weeks to complete the FAFSA process.

 It’s True:  Processing time is key. Because it can take awhile, you want to file EARLY!

Truth or Myth? You have to have excellent grades to be eligible for scholarships.

 It’s a Myth:  There are all different types of scholarships!  Search for them with your school guidance counselor, with you advisor at your college or on your college’s website.  Tons of free scholarships are at

Truth or Myth? Your college GPA will be affected by your high school grades.

 It’s a Myth (mostly):  In college, your GPA starts over at O.OO!  Your high school classes have no impact.  That is, unless you took dual-enrolled courses (for both high school and college credit).  Any course you took in high school that is a college class will be calculated into your college GPA.

Truth or Myth? You always have to have a certain ACT, SAT or COMPASS score to go to college.

 It’s a Myth:  Make sure to check with requirements if you plan to attend a 4-year, selective admissions college or university.  Some colleges require you to take the ACT, SAT, or some will ask for another type of assessment (a portfolio, essay, or project) instead of test scores.  Most colleges look at the overall student – not just your test scores.  Community Colleges will take ACT/COMPASS scores for placement, but are open admissions and do not require a certain score for admission.

Truth or Myth? Parents or family members should not attend orientation with you.

 It’s a Myth:  It’s always good to have a second set of ears with you, since you’ll get a lot of information!  If your parent isn’t available, ask a trusted mentor or teacher to attend with you.  Some colleges even have separate sessions just for families.

Truth or Myth? Student housing can cost as much or more than tuition.

 It’s True (mostly):  At many 4-year colleges or universities, housing costs can be a thousand or a few thousand dollars more than tuition.  Some colleges include housing in the total cost.  Make sure to inquire about housing costs and if it’s possible for you to live at home.

Truth or Myth? You can be dropped from your classes if you don’t pay for them.

 It’s True:  Though you probably won’t be asked to pay the entire cost up front, most colleges will require you to either set up a payment plan or show that you have filed for Financial Aid before classes begin.

Truth or Myth? You have to purchase your own textbooks in college.

 It’s True:  Students sometimes spend more than $500 on textbooks for a semester of classes.  That said, there are options at many bookstores to rent text books.  If you are tech savvy, you might purchase a cheaper eText for your course.  Be careful buying textbooks online or from friends: you want to make sure you have the right edition.

Truth or Myth? Now is the time to apply to college.

 It’s True:  Before you leave today, ask for a college application and talk with a college representative!