About College

There are different options for paths to take after high school. The most popular path is going to a four-year college, however, there are other options available. You can either go to community college, trade school, or a traditional four-year school.

College Research

Researching Colleges

  • Students should start researching colleges by their junior year of high school. Consider factors such as location, size, available majors, cost, and campus culture.

  • Use resources like College Board and Niche to compare schools based on student reviews, admissions data, and academic offerings.

  • If possible, visit the campus. It helps students become familiar with the school and the type of people they will encounter. 

Applying to college

Most colleges require:

  • High School Transcript: Course history, grades, GPA, and class rank.

  • Standardized Test Scores: If the school requires them, and if you want to upload them.

  • Personal Statement/Essay: The personal statement gives you the opportunity to make yourself stand out among students with similar academic achievements as you, make sure to spend time drafting and thinking of topics.

  • Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or coaches whom you are close to, schools often appreciate unique and personalized letters over basic general ones. Make sure to give whoever you asked for a letter at least two weeks of anticipation, teachers are often busy, this also gives them time to refine their letter. 

  • Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, volunteer work, paid work, and any club participation.

Deadlines

Pay close attention to application deadlines. Common deadlines are:

  • Early Decision/Early Action: Typically November 1 or 15, keep in mind early decision is binding, meaning if you are accepted, you are legally obligated to attend the school. 

  • Regular Admission: January 1–15 for the majority of schools.

  • Financial Aid Deadlines: Often during spring, (May or April).

  • Scholarships: All scholarships have different deadlines, make sure to keep up to date with upcoming deadlines and opportunities.

  • Your school counselors should provide you with a list of scholarships, however there are many websites that will notify you about them.

  • Fast Web (Scholarships): www.fastweb.com