planning for college workshop. get started early!! what will your student do when he/she graduates?...
TRANSCRIPT
Get started EARLY!! What will your student do when he/she graduates?
Begin gathering information on schools that offer programs of interest
Remember, there are over 50 college choices in Kansas!
Identify ABILITIES and INTERESTS
What are your skills and talents? What classes have you enjoyed the most during your high school career?
Know what factors to consider... Characteristics
◦ Location◦ Public and Private colleges◦ 2 year and 4 year colleges◦ Size
Campus Life◦ Commuter or Residential ◦ Activities, clubs, organizations, sports, etc.
Cost◦ Tuition, Room and Board, Fees, Books, Spending Cash
Know your choices... in Kansas! Technical School 2 year Public College 2 year Private College 4 year State University 4 year Public College and University 4 year Private College and University
Utilize your resources! High School Guidance Counselor Reliable Internet Sources
◦ Individual School Website◦ KACRAO Website : www.kacrao.org◦ College Board: www.collegeboard.org
College Admissions Counselors
Attend a College Planning Conference
Put the date on your calendar!◦ Hays HS College Planning Conference-October 21st
Decide which schools you want to visit with at the CPC and stop by their tables
Write down your questions in advance so you can ask them of each representative you visit with
Complete the contact cards!◦ Easiest way to get your information to the schools of your choice
If time allows, visit with other schools◦ You never know what’s out there if you don’t explore!
When you get home, read the brochures!
Visit Campus Set up an appointment with the Admissions Office in advance
Visit when school is IN SESSION!◦ Avoid Holidays, Breaks and Summer
Be on time Wear comfortable clothing and shoes Check your schedule for the day
◦ Are you meeting with faculty, financial aid, going on a campus tour?
Notify the school if you wont be able to attend your scheduled visit
Do your research! What are the requirements for admission?
◦ View the school website for details◦ Contact the Admissions Office
What is the application deadline?◦ Some schools will have deadlines, others will not
How selective is the school? Apply to your top 3-5 choices
◦ It is better to be prepared for each school in the event you decide to attend rather than playing “catch up” at a single school once your decision is made.
Start the Admission Process Complete an application for admission
◦ Paper Application◦ Online Application (some schools only offer this)
Pay the application fee◦ Fees will range from $0 - $50
Submit your information!!◦ ACT Scores◦ High School Transcript and Senior Class Schedule◦ College Transcripts
Be aware of any other documents you need to send◦ Letters of Recommendation, Interviews or Essays
Create a professional e-mail and CHECK IT!◦ Use for applying online, contacting schools, and scholarships
Start the Admission Process
Keep in mind:◦ Use Social Media…WISELY!
◦ Review your privacy settings and make changes if needed
◦ Review your photos and remove any albums or tagged photos that are not appropriate
◦ Do not post blogs, notes, or make derogatory wall comments about colleges especially if you choose not to limit your privacy.◦ www.youropenbook.org
I’ve been accepted...now what?
CELEBRATE! Make housing arrangements
◦ Learn your school’s requirements◦ On campus vs. Off campus
Complete the FAFSA form◦ www.fafsa.gov
Apply for Scholarships Enroll in classes
◦ Many schools have orientation programs
Take care of all deposits Notify other schools of your decision
◦ Don’t feel bad for deciding that another school is a better fit for you personally.
Know the cost of your education
Tuition and Fees Room and Board Books Travel Expenses Personal Expenses
Can I afford it? Visiting financial aid and scholarship websites can help you pay for your education!
Consider checking out the following sites:◦ Free Application for Federal Student Aid www.fafsa.gov
◦ Eligible to apply in January of your Senior Year
◦ Gather all the necessary information to complete the form
◦ Remember… it’s first come, first served sodon’t delay!
Scholarship Websites