Section 1: Planning for College

SECTION I PLANNING FOR COLLEGE A. Student’s rights and responsibilities B. Planning steps for college C. Graduation requirements D. Senior year college planning guide E. College entrance course requirements F. College admission testing program

STUDENT’S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR COLLEGE ADMISSION COUNSELING STUDENTS’ RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE COLLEGE ADMISSION PROCESS

WHEN YOU APPLY TO COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES YOU HAVE RIGHTS Before You Apply: - You have the right to receive factual and comprehensive information from colleges and universities about their admission, financial aid opportunities, practices and packaging policies, and housing policies.

If you consider applying under an early admission, early action decision plan, you have the right to complete information from the college about its processes and policies.

When You Are Offered Admission: - You have the right to wait to respond to an offer of admission and/or financial aid until May 1.

- Colleges that request commitments to offers of admission, and/or financial assistance prior to May 1, must clearly offer you the opportunity to request (in writing) an extension until May 1. They must grant you this extension and your request may not jeopardize your status for housing and/or financial aid.

(This right does not apply to candidates admitted under an early decision program.)

If You Are Placed on A Wait List or Alternate List: - The letter that notifies you of that placement should provide a history that describes the number of students on the wait list, the number offered admission, and the availability of financial aid and housing.

- Colleges may require neither a deposit nor a written commitment as a condition of remaining on the wait list.

- Colleges are expected to notify you of the resolution of your wait list status by August 1 at the latest.

WHEN YOU APPLY TO COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES YOU HAVE RESPONSIBILITIES Before You Apply: - You have a responsibility to research and understand the policies and procedures of each college or university regarding application fees, financial aid, scholarships, and housing. You should also be sure that you understand the policies of each college or university regarding application fees, financial aid, scholarships, and housing. You should also be sure that you understand the policies of each college or university regarding deposits that you may be required to make before you enroll.

As You Apply: - You must complete all material that is required for application and submit your application on or before the published deadlines. You should be the sole author of your applications.

- You should seek the assistance of your high school counselor early and throughout the application period. Follow the process recommended by your high school for filing college applications.

- It is your responsibility to arrange, if appropriate, for visits to and/or interviews at colleges of your choice.

As You Receive Your Admission Decisions: 2

- You must notify each college or university which accepts you whether you are accepting or rejecting its offer. You should make these notifications as soon as you have made a final decision as to the college you wish to attend but no later than May 1. It is understood that May 1 will be the postmark date, except at popular state colleges/universities. A state university might close its class early due to its popularity. Be sure to check with each institution to ascertain its deposit deadline.

- You must confirm your intention to enroll by submitting a deposit to only one college or university.

The exception to this arises if you are put on a wait list by a college or university and are later admitted to that institution. You may accept the offer and send a deposit. However, you must immediately notify a college or university at which you previously indicated your intention to enroll.

- If you are accepted under an early decision plan, you must promptly withdraw the applications submitted to other colleges and universities and make no additional applications. If you are an early decision candidate and are seeking financial aid, you need not withdraw other applications until you have received notification about financial aid.

If you think your rights have been denied, you should contact the college or university immediately to request additional information or the extension of a reply date. In addition, you should ask your counselor to notify the president of the state or regional affiliate of the National Association for College Admission Counseling. If you need further assistance, send a copy of any correspondence you have had with the college or university and a copy of your letter of admission to: NACAC, 1631 Prince Street, Suite 400, 1050 N. Highland Street, Alexandria, VA 22201.

The information presented here is consistent with changes to the NACAC Statement of Principles of Good Practice, approved in October, 1991 and revised in October 2007.

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PLANNING STEPS FOR COLLEGE FRESHMAN AND SOPHOMORE In your ninth and tenth grade years, stretch yourself academically, learn more about your own interests and abilities, and explore all avenues to learn about the different schools available.

1. Be serious about your grades, attendance, and punctuality, all of which are important factors when your applications for either college or employment are considered. Also, be aware that colleges to which you may apply for admission during the fall of your senior year will primarily consider your academic performance during your first three years of high school. Therefore, earning healthy grades in a challenging curriculum is preferable to allowing your academic performance to fluctuate or decline.

2. Develop a realistic four-year educational plan for your high school years. This plan should include selecting courses required for admission to any colleges that you may be considering. Review this plan with your counselor or the post secondary counselor each year.

3. Keep your options for college and employment open by taking a strong pattern of coursework in high school. Prepare yourself well, not just minimally, for college work. Take as many courses as you can in math, social studies, science, and foreign language. Seriously consider enrollment in advanced placement and/or dual enrollment courses in areas in which you are particularly interested or qualified.

4. Become involved in the extracurricular activities that reflect your interests. Many colleges consider participation as evidence of talent and leadership abilities. Furthermore, the experiences you have may lead you to discover new interests and help you develop interpersonal skills. Keep in mind admissions officers prefer to see a demonstrated commitment rather than a ‘laundry list’ of activities.

5. Assemble a file documenting the nature and dates of your achievements and activities in and out of school. List honors/awards, any special academic experiences, extracurricular activities, community service, etc., that you might be asked to recall or discuss when filling out a college application. By organizing your personal records at the start of your high school career, you allow yourself time to recall your significant experiences without the pressure of an imminent deadline.

6. Read some of the books on college selection. While you think about your future, engage your parents in open dialogue and even debate the pros and cons of specific institutions or ideas.

7. Browse through different college catalogues. Contact colleges (via postcard, telephone, or the Internet) for admission and financial aid information.

8. Take the PSAT and PLAN tests for practice. The PLAN includes a career assessment section. Talk to adults you know about their jobs. Consider many alternatives.

JUNIORS As a junior, you should consider the following suggestions as imperatives. Attend presentations by college representatives such as the Cousino High School College Fair.  September. As soon as possible, review your educational plans with your counselor. Make sure that you are carrying a full college-prep program. Review your record of academic achievement and

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evaluate your participation in extracurricular activities. These are important factors for admissions and/or scholarships. Work hard to maintain or improve your grades. Colleges make their initial admissions decisions based on your academic performance through the junior year. Even if you are unsatisfied with your current grade point average, you should remember that colleges are favorably impressed by students whose grades follow an upward trajectory heading toward the senior year.

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October and November. Don’t miss the PSAT given in October if it applies to you. There are no make up dates. Attend presentations by college representatives such as the Cousino High School College Fair. These informal meetings, presented by an admissions officer or an alumnus/alumna, are excellent means of getting to know a college. Research the specialized requirements for admission. Visit some nearby campuses. Go with your parents if possible. Otherwise, visit with a friend who attends that college or organize a group of three or four friends to go together.

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December through January. Browse through college catalogues and online college websites. Refer to books describing college majors and academic programs. Starting in January, organize family financial records. Regularly updating your financial records will make it easier for you to fill out both the government’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (the FAFSA) and the College Board’s PROFILE, a financial aid form utilized by many private universities.

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February. When you plan for your senior year, have specific colleges and their requirements in mind as you choose classes. If you have met only minimal requirements in several areas, carefully consider taking another course in at least one of those areas. You will need to sign up to take the SAT and/or the ACT. Check the college guidebooks or information online to find out which test(s) your prospective colleges prefer.

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March. You will take the ACT. Assuming that you are satisfied with your test scores; you won’t have to worry about taking either test in the fall when life gets even more hectic. Further, you will have gained valuable insight into the testing experience and the exam format.

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April and June. Retake the ACT in April and/or June if you want to try to improve your score. Begin deciding which colleges you would like to apply to so you are ready to apply in the fall of your senior year. Begin planning when you can visit college campuses if possible to help you make a more informed decision as to where you want to apply.

SENIORS This is your final year to act before college. Request any help you need from the college counselor or teachers as early as possible. 

September Narrow your college selection if you have not already done so. Register for ACT/SAT if you missed or wish to retake the tests. This is also the time to be sure to register for any entrance or subject tests you might need. Phone, write or email out-of-state or private institutions for admissions and financial aid applications. In addition, request scholarship information from them.

Be sure to request the PROFILE financial aid form if you intend to apply to a private university that requires it. Attend the presentations given by college representatives throughout the fall. For elite colleges and universities begin applying now!

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October and November - Attend the Cousino High School College Fair or another college fair in the area if you are still undecided about your college choice or have various questions. Be aware of the college application process of each college/university as they differ among the various institutions.

For elite colleges/universities apply by the end of October. For all other institutions continue to apply in the next couple of months….having this process completed by Christmas. If you have not already done so, make an appointment to meet with your counselor so you can discuss your future plans.

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November and December - Register for a pin number for the FAFSA. This is something both you and your parents have to complete.

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January - Attend the College Financial Aid Planning Night. As early as possible after January 1, mail in your Financial Aid Form (FAFSA) or file the FAFSA online (It is much more efficient for you to complete the FAFSA online as they will send it back to you if there are any errors). Additionally, colleges will receive the information faster if it is filed online. If your college has a separate financial aid form of their own make sure it is completed as well. Remember, you must be accepted by a college before you can receive your financial aid offer, so be certain that your college has a complete admissions application.

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Throughout the Spring - Your grades are still important. Colleges have been known to rescind admission, scholarship offers, or place students on academic probation if the senior year grades drop dramatically, even though they have already accepted these students. Apply early for housing at college as many offer a wide variety of both housing options and meal plans. Study these options carefully and choose wisely (For example, can you save money if you provide your own breakfast each day?).

Throughout this process, please know that whenever you have questions you can contact your counselor. This is your future take charge of where you are headed!!!

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS WARREN CONSOLIDATED SCHOOLS/COUSINO HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Graduation Requirement English 9 English 10 English 11 English 12 Algebra 1 Geometry Algebra 2 Additional Math or Math Related Credit American History th 20 Century World History American Government Economics Biology 1 Chemistry 1 or Physics Additional Science or approved CPC course Health Visual, Performing, and Applied Arts (1) Physical Education (2) Online Learning Experience (3) Core Curriculum Total Required Elective Credits Minimum Graduation Requirements

# of Credits 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 .5 .5 1.0 1.0 1.0 .5 1.0 .5 See below 16.0 6.5 22.5

(1) – The board has approved several courses that satisfy this graduation requirement. These courses are identified in the Course Selection Guide which is updated annually and can be found online.

(2) – JV or varsity athletics or marching band for two (2) seasons may fulfill the physical education requirements. Students successfully passing one (1) year or more of the Warren Consolidated Schools of Performing Arts also satisfy the Physical Education Requirement.

(3) – Online Learning Experience: The board has approved several courses that contribute toward the satisfaction of this graduation requirement. These courses are identified in the Course Selection Guide which is published annually. Students are required to have a total of thirty (30) or more hours of cumulative Online Learning within these courses. Only hours earned in courses that are passed may be counted as part of this total.

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS VS. COLLEGE ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

English

Math

Science

HIGH SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

HIGH SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS FOR COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

4 English 9 English 10 English 11 English 12 4 Algebra 1 Geometry Algebra 2 Math Related

4 English 9 English 10 or English 10 Honors English 11 or AP Language English 12 or AP Literature 4 Algebra 1 Geometry or Acc. Geometry Algebra 2 or Algebra 2/Trig Acc. Trig/Stat/Geo Pre-Calculus AP Calculus 4 Biology Chemistry or Honors Chemistry Physics or AP Chemistry or Biology 2 or Biology 3 or Astronomy and Forensics 4 American History World History AP Government & AP Economics AP Psychology or Criminal & Civil Law or Global History 2+ Spanish 1 Spanish 2 Spanish 3 .5 .5 1 2.5 22.5

3 Biology Chemistry 3rd Science Credit

Social Studies

3 American History World History Government & Economics

Foreign Language

0 (2 years are required for the class of 2016)

Physical Education Health Visual & Performing Electives Total

.5 .5 1 6.5 22.5

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SENIOR YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING GUIDE SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST AUGUST FOR GRADUATION: □ Review your GRADUATION status according to the WCS/MMC Graduation Requirements. □ Talk to your counselor about possibilities for concurrent enrollment (taking college-credit courses while you're still in high school.) Continue to take appropriate classes to enhance your postsecondary plans. Colleges like to see as many solid classes as possible on your transcript, and they do look at senior grades! Have you taken your 2 years of foreign language yet? □ Attend class every day, do your homework and KEEP STUDYING!

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ □

Gather or request post-secondary or specialty school information.

Make a list of 5-10 schools you are interested in attending and for which you would meet the entrance requirements. □ Download or send for college applications at the college web sites. Get applications for housing and financial aid at the same time, (if you cannot afford application or test fees, a counselor can help you request a fee waiver.) □ Create a master calendar of deadlines. Include - college applications - test registrations and test dates - scholarship applications, - housing deadlines - financial deadlines . □ If military-bound, make appropriate contacts. (Check your selective service status for financial aid purposes). □ REGISTER NOW, if you have not already, to take the SAT and/or ACT.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □ Attend financial aid workshops when available. □ Download or send for scholarship applications. Make note of their deadlines. □ Some colleges require the CSS/PROFILE, a supplemental financial aid form in addition to the FAFSA. □ Find out if your schools will need this. □ Save your money! It's a good idea to start planning for those unexpected costs of college.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST SEPTEMBER FOR GRADUATION: □ Make an appointment with your counselor to talk about college plans and to make sure your high school transcripts and records are up-to-date. □ KEEP STUDYING!

FOR POST-SECONDARY:

□ Become familiar with the application process for your schools of choice. □ Make sure you meet the requirements (including any transcript requirements) for all the colleges to which you want to apply. Double-check their deadlines. □ Get started on applications right away if you plan to apply through an early decision or early action program. (Deadlines for early applications tend to fall in October or November.) □ If you have not had your ACT/SAT scores sent to the colleges to which you are applying, be sure to contact the appropriate testing agency. □ Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, and school staff.

Provide them with a list of your activities/accomplishments □ Begin your essays for college applications and scholarships. Have someone proofread them. □ Update your resume - list of accomplishments, involvements, and work experiences - with senior year activities. This resume will help you to complete applications and essays. □ Attend college fairs and financial aid workshops.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □ □

Request any specific financial aid forms your college may use in addition to the CSS Profile and FAFSA. Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST OCTOBER IN GENERAL OR FOR GRADUATION: FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ Try to finalize your college choices. □

Prepare Early Decision, Early Action or rolling admissions applications as soon as possible.

□ Ask your school counselor or teacher for a recommendation if you need one. Give each teacher or school counselor a resume and/or outline of your academic record and extracurricular activities. □ If you're submitting essays, write first drafts and ask teachers and others to read them. If you're applying for Early Decision, finish the essays for that application now. □ If you have not had your ACT/SAT scores sent to the college to which you are applying, be sure to contact the appropriate testing agency. □ Make a final list of schools that interest you and keep a file of deadlines and required admissions items for each school. You should have a list of at least 3 schools that you are applying to. □ Get started on any essays to be included with your applications. Give your essays to others (teachers, advisors, parents, and/or friends) for feedback. □ Pinpoint your career options if possible. □ Register with Selective Service if you are a male who will be 18 at the time you complete the FAFSA.

FOR FINANCIAL AID:

□ Seek out any local scholarships. Your school counselor may be able to assist with this. □ Register and complete the CSS/Profile, one month before a college/universities' priority filing date if the school requires it. Call or register on-line at www.colleqeboard.com. □ If you are applying for early decision or early action, fill out a supplemental aid application (if required) using estimate income figures. □ Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST NOVEMBER FOR GRADUATION: □ Keep Studying!

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ Nov. 1-15: For Early Decision admissions, colleges may require test scores and applications between these dates. □ Submit your college admission applications . Be sure to check them over thoroughly! Having someone else review your application with you can help you catch any errors.

• Applications should be mailed as early as possible for college with rolling deadlines (admissions decisions are made as applications are received.)

If your college wants to see seventh semester grades, be sure to give the form to your counselor. □ Complete at least three college application by Thanksgiving. □ Request that Counselors/Registrars send transcripts to colleges. Give counselors the proper forms at least two weeks before colleges require them. □ Follow-up with teachers to ensure that letters of recommendation are sent on time to meet application deadlines.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □

□ □ □ □ □

Be sure to consult with your school counselor about scholarship opportunities. Not all scholarships are for top students and athletes. There may be a perfect scholarship for you - it's worth doing a little research.

Work on your scholarship applications, and mail according to deadlines.

Check with the financial aid office of schools you are applying to for specific information on scholarships and costs for tuition, fees, room & board, and any additional financial aid information they require.

Request a Department of Education PIN. The PIN serves as an electronic signature for FAFSA on the Web and significantly reduces processing time.

Visit PROFILE Online if you are applying for regular decision admission and for financial aid; it is not too early to submit the PROFILE application.

Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST DECEMBER FOR GRADUATION: □ Re-check your graduation status. □ Finish the semester strong!

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ Watch your mailbox if you submitted an early decision application. Early decision replies usually arrive between December 1 and 31. If you do get an acceptance, you should withdraw any other applications. □ Try to finish all applications before winter break. □ If you haven't already done so, make sure your official test scores are being sent to the colleges to which you are applying. □

Take SAT Subject Test, if required for admissions to post-secondary school.

□ Become familiar with resume writing, □ Start thinking about how you're going to spend your summer. Summer is a great time to earn extra money and gain work experience. Seek out internships and start researching the summer job market in your area.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □ Apply for scholarships in time to meet application deadlines. □ Get a FAFSA from the school counseling office before winter vacation begins or go online to visit the FAFSA website. □ Start gathering the documents you'll need to fill out the FAFSA. They're listed on the FAFSA website. □ Review any early decision and early action responses. If you are admitted to your early decision school and you have applied for financial aid you should also receive a financial aid award. Some early action programs may admit you but not send a financial aid award notice until later in the spring. Check the college's literature for more information. □ Read the award letter carefully. Some require you to submit a written acceptance. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the award before making a final decision. Contact the college's financial aid office if you have questions. □ Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for. □ Financial aid presentations made to students in class by counseling department.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST JANUARY FOR GRADUATION: □ Study hard for semester final exams!

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ If you apply to colleges online, be sure to have your high school send a transcript. □ Early decision and early application responses arrive this month. □

Observe deadlines for admissions, financial aid, testing and housing deposits.

□ If you don't already have a good computer, investigate purchasing one for college. You or your parents can subsidize the cost of a computer for college in your student loans. □ Contact the admissions office of the colleges to which you have applied to make sure that your information has been received and that they have everything they need from you. □ Begin to organize your job search, if appropriate.

FOR FINANCIAL AID □ Prepare your tax return (if applicable), and make sure your parents prepare theirs, as early as possible, since you need income and asset figures from the returns to complete the FAFSA. It is not necessary to submit your tax return to the IRS before submitting the FAFSA. □

If you have not already, request a Department of Education PIN. Complete the FAFSA online. The earlier you do this, the better. Government financial aid is first come, first served!

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Complete the pre-application worksheet if you are submitting the FAFSA online. It is designed to help your family organize your financial information for FAFSA. Start filling out the PROFILE application for colleges that require it as soon as possible to meet February priority deadlines.

Complete the institutional financial aid application for each college if one is required.

Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for.

Financial Aid Night held at Cousino to learn more about the college financial aid process.

If you are awarded any scholarships, please notify the counseling office of your award.

□ □ □ □ □

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST FEBRUARY FOR GRADUATION: □ Stay focused and maintain good grades; keep on track for graduation. No senioritis! Accepting colleges do look at second-semester senior grades.

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ Sign up for any AP exams you may be taking this May. □ Contact your counselor/AP coordinator about details and payment.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □

Check your selective status for financial aid purposes.

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If you completed the FAFSA, you should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) within two to four weeks. The EFC figure is printed on the front page at the upper right-hand corner. Make the necessary corrections and return it to the FAFSA processor immediately.

□ If you provided your e-mail address on the FAFSA, you will be sent a link to an electronic version of your SAR. Make corrections to the SAR online at FAFSA on the Web. □ Complete your scholarship applications. □ Contact the financial aid office of the colleges to which you have applied to make sure that your information has been received and that they have everything they need from you. □ Observe deposit deadlines for post-secondary schools. □ Participate in activities, such as financial and information nights, scheduled by your high school or local colleges to celebrate Financial Aid Awareness Month. These activities help you learn more about how financial aid eligibility is determined. □ Make sure to submit your applications and meet the priority deadlines for PROFILE in early to midFebruary. Applications received by the priority deadline are given the highest consideration. □ Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for. □ If you are awarded any scholarships, please notify the counseling office of your award.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST MARCH FOR GRADUATION: □ Check with your Advisor or School Counselor for any items specific to your school.

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ Keep active in school. If you are wait-listed, the college will want to know what you have accomplished between the time you applied and the time you learned of its decision. □ Some admissions decisions arrive this month. Read each letter carefully, and take note of all reply deadlines. □

Start looking for summer jobs or paid internships.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □ See if there is an asterisk next to the EFC figure on your SAR. If there is, your FAFSA was chosen for a routine process known as "verification." During verification, the information you submitted is checked against copies of signed tax returns. Be sure to submit all requested documentation to the financial aid office in a timely fashion. □ Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for. □ If you are awarded any scholarships, please notify the counseling office of your award.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST APRIL IN GENERAL AND FOR GRADUATION: □ Keep working hard – senIoritis is just an excuse!!

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ Hit the books for next month's AP Exams. Your AP scores determine how much college credit is granted. College credit for AP Exams can mean big savings. □ Most admissions decisions and financial aid award letters arrive this month. Read each letter carefully, and take note of all reply deadlines. □ You should make a final decision and mail the enrollment form and deposit check to the school you have selected. Check with your institution the deadline is usually around May 1. □ Notify other colleges who have accepted you that you will not be attending to free up the space for another student. □

Notify your counselor of your choice as soon as you decide which college you will be attending.

□ If you are on a waiting list, contact the admissions office and communicate continued interest in the college. You should update them on your spring semester grades and activities, and request next steps. □

Verify your housing situation with your college.

□ Make your reservation for orientation and registration. □ Send thank you letters to everyone who helped you. Inform them what school you will be attending.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □ Compare your financial packages from schools to see which one is going to be the best deal for you. □ Consider meeting with financial aid staff members to discuss your situation if your full need has not been met, or if your family's financial circumstances have changed. □ Check the housing deadlines, deposits and refund procedures. Make deposits where necessary to put a hold on dorm space. If you haven't decided which college to attend yet, only send those deposits that are refundable. □ Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for. □ If you are awarded any scholarships, please notify the counseling office of your award.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST MAY FOR GRADUATION: □ The end is near! Stay focused! Your grades still count!

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ Take AP Exams. Make sure scores are sent to your college. □ You should have made a final decision and mailed the enrollment form and deposit check to the school you have selected.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □ Review your financial aid package. If it includes student loans, your college will send you instructions about the loan application process. You need to complete and sign the Master Promissory Note (MPN) to receive your Stafford Loan. □ Check to make sure that you have completed all forms correctly and met all deadlines so that financial aid funds will be credited to your student account before the beginning of the semester. □ □ □

Work with a counselor to resolve any admissions or financial aid problems.

Read Cousino’s scholarship bulletin in the counseling office to determine if there are any scholarships you should apply for.

If you are awarded any scholarships, please notify the counseling office of your award.

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SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST FOR JUNE FOR GRADUATION: □ Study for final exams and get ready to graduate!!

FOR POST-SECONDARY: □ If you will be competing in Division I or Division II college sports, request your counselor/registrar to send a copy of the final transcript to the NCAA Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse. □ Finalize your housing and meal plans. □ Request that an official transcript be sent to the college you will be attending. □ If you have not already, sign up for the college's orientation and registration. □ See your doctor for a physical, and any necessary vaccinations.

FOR FINANCIAL AID: □ Create a budget to determine your needs. □ Apply for a summer job. If your financial aid package includes work study, you may be responsible for finding a job at the college.

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COLLEGE ENTRANCE COURSE REQUIEMENTS Four-Year Colleges and Universities It is strongly recommended that students preparing for admission to Bachelor Degree granting colleges and universities earn the following credits in senior high school. (These are considered minimums, but most will prefer more): - Four credits of English - Three credits of social studies - Four credits of mathematics - Students should consult college catalogs/online information if interested in science, math, engineering, or business administration. In general, four credits of college preparatory mathematics are preferred for those areas.

- Three credits of science - At least one credit should be in a lab science, but most universities will prefer two.

Consult college catalogs and/or websites for specific recommendations.

- World Language (Two years are strongly recommended) - Contact colleges directly as there is some variation on this especially among the elite colleges NOTE: Private and out of state college requirements vary. Contact the college/university that interests you for further information.

Other College Considerations The admissions decision is based on all available information concerning a student – the quality of his/her high school program, grades, test scores, recommendations, and the appropriateness of the applicant’s proposed field of study in relation to his/her apparent abilities and interests. In determining grade point average, most bachelor degree granting colleges/universities one use those grades earned in academic subjects. For most schools this consists of English, math, social studies, science, and world language.

Colleges request that students take a standardized test during their junior year or at the beginning of their senior year. The two most frequently used tests are the American College Test (ACT) and the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Students may retake these tests multiple times with the highest composite score being the one that is used for admission purposes.

Associate Degree Granting Colleges Some students may wish to attend a community college. These students are admitted regardless of ACT scores as long as they have received a high school diploma. Additionally, they are admitted regardless of what type of course of study they completed. However, if a student plans on transferring to a university after two years at a community college, his/her high school course of study ought to be rigorous enough to prepare them for a university setting.

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Students enrolling in a community college may complete a two year degree with the intention of transferring to a four year institution; or they may choose to complete one of the excellent applied science, technical, auto repair, or business programs among others.

Some factors that students and parents might consider in order to decide if a community college is the right fit are the maturity of the student, the opportunity to explore career goals to determine one’s future plans, and the financial circumstances as a community college is much more affordable than a university.

Technical Institutes Specialized training is available at various types of technical institutes, colleges, and universities.

Both in-state and out-of-state technical institutes require a degree of proficiency in math and science.

English and other academic courses are recommended as in any college prep program.

For some programs, it is highly desirable to have chosen electives in courses in industrial arts (engineering), drafting, auto repair, business, etc.

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COLLEGE ADMISSION TESTING PROGRAM COLLEGE ADMISSION TESTING PROGRAM PLAN (Preliminary American College Test) The PLAN is an assessment administered in the fall of the sophomore year. It provides information and direction for educational and career planning. The interpretive report helps student consider their academic achievement and post high school goals as they evaluate their progress. PLAN also provides an estimate of how a student might score on their ACT Assessment (used for college admissions). The assessment includes tests of skills in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science Reasoning, as well as interest inventory, and a needs assessment.

PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) Given on a Saturday morning in October of the junior year, this test serves two purposes: it is a practice test and a diagnostic tool to predict student performance on the SAT, and it serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Competition. This test is primarily taken by high achieving students who are an approximately in the top 10% of their class.

ACT (American College Test) The ACT is a college admissions test offered at different times throughout the year. The ACT Assessment contains multiple-choice tests in four areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science.

The ACT includes 215 multiple choice questions. Actual testing time is 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 30 minutes if you are taking the Writing Test). The test scores range from 1-36 and are averaged to compute a composite ACT score. The ACT offers an optional Writing Test which measures a student’s skill in planning and writing a short essay. According to ACT, the Writing Test complements the existing English Test, combining to show a student’s handle on written English and the ability to produce a sample of writing. As the Writing Test is optional, students are encouraged to check with schools and scholarship programs in which they are interested to find out if the Writing Test is required. It is recommended that the student take the Writing Test at least one time during their junior year. Students can register for the ACT at www.actstudent.org. Most students will take this test multiple times during their junior year.

SAT Reasoning Test (Scholastic Aptitude Test) The SAT Reasoning Test is a college admissions test that is offered at different times throughout the year. The test measures critical reading, mathematical, and writing skills, and is scored on a range of 200 to 800 for the critical reading, math, and writing sections, with an average of 500 for each.

Students will also receive two writing scores; a score of 20-80 for the multiple choice questions and a score of 2-12 for the essay. The three subscores are added to compute the combined SAT score, so this score would range from 600-2400. The testing time for the SAT Reasoning Test is 3 hours and 45 minutes. You can register for the test at www.collegeboard.com.

SAT Subject Tests These tests, offered in 17 subject areas, are recommended or required by some colleges and universities as additional college admissions tests. The student needs to check with each college they are considering, to find out if these tests are recommended or required. The tests are each one hour

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long, and a student can take one, two, or three tests during one test date. You can register for the test at www.collegeboard.com.

NOTE: Please be aware that the registration window for the ACT and SAT closes approximately one month prior to the actual test date.

Preparation The best way for you to prepare for college admissions tests is by taking challenging courses, especially extra courses in math and science to strengthen your analytical and problem-solving skills, and to read to strengthen your verbal and reading comprehension skills. It also helps if you complete practice tests for the test you plan to take, so you will be familiar with the test format, types of questions, and timing of the tests.

SAT & ACT Information & Preparation Register for tests online and get help preparing to take college entrance exams.

THE COLLEGE BOARD ACT’S WEBSITE SAT TEST PREPARATION THE PRINCETON REVIEW

www.collegeboard.com www.act.org www.actstudent.org www.number2.com www.prepsage.com www.princetonreview.com

Recommended Testing Schedule Sophomore Year:

PLAN – October ACT – Spring (for some high achieving students)

Junior Year:

PSAT – October (certain high achieving students) ACT – March ACT – April (if necessary to improve your scores) ACT – June (if necessary to improve your scores) SAT – if necessary

Senior Year

ACT – if necessary to try to improve score SAT – if necessary to try to improve score

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ACT VS. SAT: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW? The ACT is published and overseen by ACT (American College Testing). The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude or Scholastic Assessment Test) is published and overseen by The College Board. Both companies offer additional resources to help students prepare for and succeed in college. Check out their websites (below) for lots of helpful information. Almost all colleges and universities accept either the ACT or SAT, so you do not necessarily have to take both tests, although many students choose to do so. Check with the college or university of your choice re: whether they require or prefer one of the two tests over the other.

ACT Length

Sections

Reading (ACT)/ Critical Reading (SAT) Science

Math Essay

Scoring

Wrong Answer Penalty Test Contact Information, practice tests and study info

SAT

3 hours, 25 minutes (includes 30-minute optional writing test — check with colleges to see if required) 4 Test Sections (5 with optional Essay): English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing (optional) 4 reading comprehension passages, 10 questions per passage Science (analysis, interpretation, evaluation, basic content, and problem Math accounts for 1/4 of solving)score: arithmetic, overall Algebra, trigonometry geometry, trigonometry.

Last thing you do (optional); 30 minutes • Not included in composite score composite score of 1Total 36 (based on average of 4 tests) • 4 scores of 1-36 for each test • Score of 0-12 for the optional Essay No wrong answer penalty ACT, Inc. (319)337-1000 www.ACT.orq

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3 hours, 45 minutes

10 Sections: 3 Critical Reading, 3 Math, 3 Writing (incl. Essay), 1 Experimental (not scored) Reading comprehension passages and questions, and sentence completion questions Science not included

Math accounts for 1/3 of overall score: arithmetic, Algebra, geometry, Algebra II First thing you do; 25 minutes * Factored into overall score Total score out of 2400 • 3 scores 200-800 for each section • 2 sub-scores: 20-80 for Writing multiple choice and 012 for the Essay Yes, % point per wrong answer (except for Math Grid-in questions) College Board 1-866-756-7346 www.colleqeboard.com

ACT vs. SAT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ACT Score

SAT Score

32-36 ................................. 2300-2400 31 ...................................... 2210-2290 30...................................... 2180-2200 29...................................... 2120-2170 28...................................... 2060-2110 27...................................... 2000-2050 26...................................... 1940-1990 25 ..................................... 1880-1930 24...................................... 1810-1870 23...................................... 1740-1800 22...................................... 1670-1730 21...................................... 1610-1660 20 ..................................... 1550-1600 19 ..................................... 1480-1540 18 ..................................... 1410-1470 17 ..................................... 1340-1400 16 ......................................1270-1330 15 ......................................1200-1260 14 ......................................1110-1190 13 ...................................... 1010-1100 12 ....................................... 860-1000 0-11 ...................................... 600-850

Level of Competitiveness Most Competitive Schools

Highly Competitive Schools Very Competitive Schools Competitive Schools

Less Competitive Schools

Non-Competitive Schools

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