1. College Planning
Process

2. Selecting a College Involves Many Things
Self – Assessment
Information Gathering
Selection Process
Filing Applications
The Wait
The Final Choice

3. Self-Evaluation The first step in finding the right match
Goals and values
Academic interests, abilities and learning style
Activities and outside interests
Your personality and relationships
Career awareness and interests

4. Information Gathering
Meet with Guidance Counselor
Use Internet, Naviance
College Fairs
College Visits*
*make sure you “check in” with admissions. They often track students who visit.

5. Selecting a College
Dream
Selection
Process
Good Fit
Higher Likely

6. Ways to Apply Early Action Early Decision (binding) Regular Decision
Very competitive applicant pool.
Early Decision (binding)
Highly competitive. Must inform Guidance.
Regular Decision
Rolling Admission

7. Instant Decision Days
Offered in the fall, seniors sign up and sit for a live interview with college admissions representative who reviews application file and gives admission decision immediately!
Seniors need to register for IDD and have a completed application.

8. Admission Criteria GPA Standardized test scores
Courses taken in high school and level of difficulty
Letters of recommendation
Intended major
School activities
Activities outside the school (community,work)
Special talents, skills and interests

9. SAT & SAT Subject Tests ACT
Tests are commonly taken in spring of Junior year and fall of Senior year.
SAT Subject tests may be required for selective schools. The best time to take them is June of junior year.
Many colleges are now adapting ‘Test Optional’ status. Please visit for colleges who do not require standardized tests for admission.

10. Recommendations
Request recommendation letters from two teachers and guidance counselor before the end of Junior year.
Complete Student Profile Sheet available on Naviance.
Parents complete “Parent Input Sheet” available on Naviance.

11. Essay Student should: Write in student’s own voice Be genuine
Write several drafts
Take a close look at organization, grammar and structure
Essay should highlight student’s interests or experiences; telling the admission committee more about themselves not found elsewhere in the application.

12. Essay…a few pointers Should be
Edited for mechanics, spelling, grammar, punctuation and typos. Do not rely on spell check/
Have someone proofread!

13. High School Athletes Eligibility to play Division I and II
All high school athletes must register with NCAA at
Register at the beginning of Junior Year

14. Scholarship Websites
Scholarships are posted on VJM Naviance accounts and on our website

15. Mrs. Anne Perez - Director of Guidance x118 aperez@vjmhs.org
Mrs. Kim Bedrosian – College Counselor x 123
Mrs. Teresa Smeraglio - Guidance Assistant x121

16. The Application Process in a Nutshell!
Either using the Common Application or the college’s application (if college does not accept the CA), student completes application online and submits payment.
Student records applications in her Naviance account and requests transcripts.
Student submits a Blue Sheet for all colleges to which she has applies.
Student requests tests scores to be sent directly from SAT/ACT (College Board) to colleges.

17. Final Thoughts: Students should: Visit the counselor often
Refer to College Planning Guide
Use resources in Guidance Office/Naviance
Visit schools and stop by Admissions Offices
Prepare a list of colleges tailored to you and your goals