OfftoCollege.com

Task1: Review the Fall Semester Checklist

checklist of prior monthly tasks that should be completed

Any idea that you want to do after high school: link to the Fall Semester plan for the latest job trends

Are you preparing for SAT and ACT college entrance exams? link to the Fall Semester plan for information related to college preparation exams

Do you have the aptitude qualities to complete the studies: see the Fall Semester Plan for a personal self assessment

Get to know your High School guidance counselor. Meet to discuss your "after high-school" plans: link to the Fall Semester Plan for tips on what to discuss

Understand Types of Schools: Colleges: generally smaller in size. They offer 4-year degree programs (BA and BS) and many 2-year Associate degrees. Universities: larger institutions with specialized degrees in business, engineering, pre-med, etc. They offer 2-year, 4-year, and many graduate and professional degrees. Community / Junior Colleges: a small college offering 2-year Associate degrees. Many students attend local community colleges with the intent to transfer to a larger institution to further their education. Online Programs: offered by small and large accredited universities. Programs are offered online with potentially some campus visit during the online course. Vocational / Career Schools: specialized schools of training for specialized trade jobs such as mechanics, computer technicians, medical assistants, etc. Programs may vary requiring only a few weeks to complete while others may require a year or more. Upon completion, graduates will receive a license, certificate or an Associate Degree.

Task2: College Search and Selection

Assemble a list of colleges or trade schools you'd like to attend.

Meet with your school's guidance counselor to discuss your plans and to arrange important campus visits.

There are three search categories for schools:

1. search for 2-3 schools that you could
   definitely get in
2. search for 4-5 schools that you could
   probably get in
3. search for 7-8 schools that you would
   like to get in

 

College - University Search:

• Start Your College Search :
  
  — universities by State
  — community colleges by State
  — career schools by Type
  — online schools by Academic
  
  link to begin: college search directory

Task3: Get Ready to Sit for the Exams

Meet with your guidance counselor about the following college exams.

You should schedule time to prepare for these exams:

• Advance Placement Exams:
  The exams are administered each year in the Spring with some preparation required prior to the exam. Check with your school for exam administration, enrollment and information.
  
  information about the advanced placement program for the collegeboard
  
  
• College Entrance Exams:
  colleges require different college entrance exams. You need to check with your college to determine which exam to take. Many students will sit for both exams to make sure they meet qualifications from all colleges. Discuss your exam needs with your guidance counselor.

 

There are two types of college entrance exams:

1. SAT I and SAT II:
   link to collegeboard.com for information and exam dates
   
   Information about the PSAT (practice exams):
   the PSAT is the test prep exam for the SAT I and SAT II. The SAT tests are administered on behalf of colleges.
   www.collegeboard.org
   
   
2. ACT College Exam:
   link to ACT for information and exam dates
   
   ACT test preparation:
   some colleges use the ACT test. You need to check your college to determine which test they use for admittance.
   www.actstudent.org

Task4: Plan for College Visits

Get to Know Your College

As you search for colleges of your choice, schedule time during a weekend, Spring Break, and during a summer trip to visit each of the colleges on your list. These visits will give your a good idea whether or not you would like to attend.

 

Use this college visit to complete the following:

• walk the campus to familiarize yourself with the layout
• meet with the college admissions office to discuss your interest
• meet with the college financial aid office to review financial aid options
• meet with other students to discuss their opinions about the school, academic workload, teachers, fun life, etc.
• review housing faculties and dorms to determine your desire for on-campus of off-campus housing
• drive through the community to know what services are readily available.
  
  Take a virtual tour:
  this is good place to start prior to making an actual visit:
  www.campustours.com

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