1. The College Search and Application Process

2. How to begin your college search
Is there one college out there that is the*perfect* fit for you?

3. Selecting the “Right” institution Is it a good match for you?
Size
Location
Environment
Facilities
Admission Requirements
Cost
Academics
Class Size
Activities
Sports

4. Starting your college search
Use all of your resources
Guidance counselors
Teachers
Coaches
Parents
Research & visit different colleges
Start at school website
Visit (campus tour, information session, interview)
Attend an open house and/or a class
Explore the town
Ask questions
Admission and financial aid staff
Counselors, teachers, coaches
Create separate account to track questions

5. Types of colleges and universities
Trade Schools/Technical College
Community Colleges (2 Year)
Liberal Arts College
Public 4-Year Universities
Private 4-Year Universities
Specialized 4 Year College
(Engineering School, Nursing Colleges)

6. What do all colleges look for?
Grades
Citizen
Strong

7. Checklist for college bound students
Strong grades
A record of achievement
Good writing skills
Personal motivation
Challenging coursework
Test scores that meet requirement
Model citizen
Positive recommendations

8. In the classroom Challenge yourself with advanced coursework
Colleges look for a strong record of academic performance
A’s are better than B’s,
B’s are better than C’s.
D’s and F’s are to be avoided!
Challenge yourself with advanced coursework
Don’t be afraid to take Honors and AP courses
Don’t be afraid of getting a B in a more challenging course

9. Outside the classroom Be Involved Make A Difference In Your Community
Join clubs, sports, & activities
Be a leader
Be well-rounded…participate
Make A Difference In Your Community
Be the change you want to see in the world
Pursue issues/causes/groups you care about
Work, Church & Family are Extracurricular Activities
Colleges look for dedication & commitment
Not every student can stay after school… that’s OK
Do what is most important to you

10. Cheating Plagiarism Drugs & Alcohol Integrity & judgment count
Avoid Disciplinary Infractions!
Cheating
Plagiarism
Drugs & Alcohol

11. The application Complete an application at www.commonap.org
Application components
Student information
Personal essay
School report
Test scores/STO
Recommendations
Supplement
Remember application fees

12. How colleges evaluate you
Transcript
Grades
GPA
Class rank
Trends
Test scores or graded writing samples
Essay
Activities
Interview
Recommendations
Overall presentation of application

13. Communicating with a college
Be Professional
Use Mr. & Ms.
Be courteous and respectful
No TXT Language in s
Use proper English, practice good grammar
Shake hands, introduce yourself, make eye contact
Dress appropriately
Be Confident
Colleges want your business
Ask questions that are important to you
Don’t be afraid to talk about your strengths & talents

14. Application deadlines
Early programs
Early Decision
Early Action
Regular Decision
Rolling Admission
Priority Deadline

15. Types of decision letters
Admitted…you’re in
Wait list…no guarantees
Denied…not accepted
Deferred…on hold
Spring option…spring start date

16. Finally
One piece of advice…

17. “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
-Oscar Wilde