Selecting and applying to colleges may seem to be a daunting task. Choosing your "home away from home" for the next several years is a big personal and financial decision. As your school counselor, I understand the anxiety these decisions may create for both you and your parents. I’d like to share some information with you to ease the process.

What criteria do colleges use to accept applicants?

In general, colleges consider four parts of your application in determining acceptance:

• Transcript: Grades, Quality of coursework & GPA are most important.
• Extracurricular Activities/Work Experience/Volunteer & Community Service
• Recommendations/Honors/Awards
• Application Essay: If applicable

What college entrance exams are sometimes used for admissions?

1. The SAT is a total scale ranging from 400 to 1600, there are no penalty points taken for incorrect answers.
2. American College Test (ACT) is composed of four tests: English, Mathematics, Reading and Science. Each test is scored on a scale of 1-36 points. The ACT composite score, also based on a 1-36 scaled score, is an average of the four test scores. There is also an optional ACT Writing Test, which is combined with the English Test to also yield a score based on a scale of 1-36 points.

How do I know which college entrance exam to take?

• Most colleges accept either the SAT I or ACT scores as part of the admission process. Some students choose to take both exams to give themselves the best opportunity for their highest possible score and/or to qualify for certain scholarships. Community colleges do not require scores but may use them for merit scholarships. Research your colleges exam requests. 

What other helpful suggestions can you recommend for me? 

• Begin a list of your activities, honors, and unique experiences both inside and outside of school. Include sports, clubs, work experience, church activities, summer camps, community service, etc. Add to this list annually.
• Begin a portfolio if you are pursuing a career in an Art or Architecture field.
• Seeking recruitment for a college sport? Share your interest with myself and your coach and get suggestions and support. NCAA Freshman Eligibility Standards: Division I Academic Guidelines
• Begin exploring colleges now. Use the Internet links on my web page to explore, as well as requesting information directly from the colleges. Our school counseling office has some college/major search books to share with you as well.