when you are ready to apply to a school, you must do …
TRANSCRIPT
SOMERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
JUNIOR COLLEGE PLANNING NIGHT
THURSDAY, JANUARY 12, 2017
6:30 PM
PRESENTED BY THE SOMERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
GUIDANCE COUNSELORS
MRS. CAROL CABOURG
MS. KATHLEEN DELUCA
MRS. DEBORAH GROSSMITH
MR. JEREMY HUDSON
MR. NICHOLAS MILICI
MRS. CHRISTINE THOMPSON
MR. CHRISTOPHER MULLIGAN, DIRECTOR OF GUIDANCE
1
GUIDANCE OFFICE DIRECTORY
Mr. Christopher Mulligan, Director of Guidance
COUNSELOR GRADES STUDENTS
Mrs. Deborah Grossmith
908-243-1553
9-10
11
12
A-C
A-Ch
A-C
Mrs. Carol Cabourg
908-243-1552
9-10
11
12
D-I
Ci-G
D-I
Mrs. Christine Thompson
908-243-1554
9-10
11
12
J-M
H-Me
J-M
Mr. Nicholas Milici
908-243-1551
9-10
11
12
N-R
Mi-R
N-R
Ms. Kathleen DeLuca
908-243-1555
9-12
S-Z
Mr. Jeremy Hudson
908-243-1563
College/Career/SALA Counselor
Dr. Danielle Zurawiecki Mrs. Kerri Ireland
School Psychologist Guidance Office Secretary
908-243-1584 908-243-1550
VISIT US ON OUR WEBSITE AT
www.somervillenjk12.org
2
SOMERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GUIDANCE SERVICES
JUNIOR COLLEGE PLANNING NIGHT JANUARY 12, 2017
AGENDA
CHRISTOPHER MULLIGAN
Introduction & Welcome
CHRISTINE THOMPSON
The Cost of College
College Readiness
College Calendar - Junior Year
KATHLEEN DeLUCA
The Common Application & Naviance
FAFSA & The CSS Profile
Testing
CAROL CABOURG
Qualities Admissions Counselors are looking for in Prospective Students
The College Transcript
DEBORAH GROSSMITH
Building you college list
Essay Writing
Resume
Admission Plans
JEREMY HUDSON
College Fair
The College Visit
Comparative Schools
Being College and Career Ready
NICHOLAS MILICI
Raritan Valley Community College
NJ Stars I & II
NCAA Clearinghouse
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
3
SHS JUNIOR YEAR GPS January
Students should develop a plan for taking and preparing for the SAT/ACT’s. Note upcoming registration
deadlines and exam dates and work on test preparation.
Begin a more in-depth investigation of colleges. Create an initial list of colleges using the “Colleges I’m
Thinking About” tab in Naviance and visit the school websites.
Mid-year evaluation of grades. Look for areas that need improvement.
Consider job shadowing and volunteer work to learn more about potential careers.
Look over your calendar for the spring. If possible, arrange to visit college campuses over school breaks.
February
Look at the schedule for AP exams and register if applicable.
Start selecting senior year courses, ensuring they are sufficiently but not overly challenging (check
college websites for minimum requirements – especially if you are interested in a specific program).
Students and their counselors should discuss senior year courses and potential colleges.
March
Research admission and financial aid information from colleges.
Students should create a folder for each school they’re applying to.
Begin visiting schools and touring campuses.
Work on applications for summer jobs and internships.
April
Continue visiting schools. Attend college fairs and meet with admission representatives.
Think about teachers and mentors who could write letters of recommendation.
Finalize course selection for senior year.
Continue SAT/ACT and AP test preparation if applicable.
Students should re-evaluate their list of colleges. The list should include “reach” schools, “target”
schools where they may be accepted and “probable” schools where they’ll almost certainly be accepted.
This is a good time to look into academic summer programs.
4
May
Study hard and end the school year with strong grades. Look at final grades and GPA and determine
where improvements can be made.
Continue to visit colleges, setting up interviews, meeting with admission and financial personnel, and
talking with current and former students.
Look for details about the Guidance Department’s College Essay Writing workshop (expected date will
be late May or early June)
Summer
Begin college applications and essays
Get a job and try to put away some money for college.
Continue to visit and research colleges.
Get leadership experience through volunteer activities.
Stay sharp by doing things like participating in academic summer programs and reading challenging
books.
Looks for details about the Guidance Department’s Senior Parent Night to be held within the first two
weeks of the new school year.
THE NAVIANCE WAREHOUSE
Documents stored in Naviance include:
School Profile
Student Transcript
Guidance Counselor Recommendation
Teacher Recommendations (2)
Secondary School Report
These official documents will be electronically delivered to the applicant’s colleges
after a transcript is requested through Naviance.
5
SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID
FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid
o Administered by the U.S. Department of Education - determines student eligibility for
federal financial aid
o REQUIRED for all students applying to college
o Beginning in October 2017, the federal government will allow families to file the FAFSA
using PPY (prior-prior year) tax data. This will allow families and students to apply for aid
for the 2018-2019 academic year using tax information from 2016 taxes.
o The FAFSA application can be submitted as early as October of the senior year
CSS Profile – College Scholarship Service Profile – available October 1st of each year
o Distributed by the College Board for nonfederal financial aid
o Required by nearly 300 colleges, universities, professional schools, and scholarship programs
(mainly private and/or prestigious programs)
o Much more detailed than the FAFSA
o Fees: There is an initial application fee, which includes one college. There is an additional
fee for each subsequent submission. For the 2016-17 form the application fee was $25.00 and
$16.00 per college submitted.
o Visit Collegeboard.org for a list of schools and institutions that use the PROFILE application
Financial Resources
College Net price calculator: http://collegecost.ed.gov/netpricecenter.aspx
Scholarship Search Sites: http://www.fastweb.com/
https://www.cappex.com/scholarships/
http://www.college-scholarships.com/
http://www.hesaa.org/Pages/NJGrantsHome.aspx
NJ College Loans: http://www.hesaa.org/Pages/NJCLASSHome.aspx
SHS Website: http://www.somervillenjk12.org/Page/3579
US Department of College Affordability and Transparency Center: http://www.collegecost.ed.gov/index.aspx
National Association of Financial Aid Administrators: www.nasfaa.org
6
SPEAK THE LANGUAGE: FINANCIAL AID
When it comes to money, you don’t need any misunderstandings. To help you navigate the waters of paying for college, here is a list of commonly used terms and what they mean.
Award Letter: Official notification of the type and amount of financial aid a college is offering you.
Demonstrated Need: The difference between what your family can contribute toward college expenses and the
actual cost of attending college.
Expected Family Contribution (EFC): How much money you and your family are expected to contribute toward
college expenses. EFC is based on your FAFSA application and a calculation by the federal government.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The federal application every student must submit in order to
be eligible for federal financial aid. For more information and to complete the FAFSA visit www.fafsa.ed.gov
Grants: Money for college that does not have to be repaid. Most grants are need- based and are awarded by the
state or federal government.
Institutional Aid (or Campus- Based Aid): Financial assistance given by a college, typically either need-based or
merit-based aid.
Loans: Money given to a student that must be paid back. There are several types of loans, including low to zero
interest student loans given out by the federal government, like the Perkins and Stafford loans. These are the best
options, since you don’t have to pay back the money until you graduate. Private loans, offered through banks and
credit unions, typically have higher interest rates.
Merit Aid: Financial aid awarded to you from college based on your individual achievements and talents. For a full
listing of what’s available, visit www.meritaid.com
Need-Based Aid: Financial aid given based on the ability of you and your family to pay for college.
Scholarship: Money for college that does not have to be paid back. Usually awarded based on specific criteria,
such as your academic performance, extracurricular activities, college major, ethnic heritage or religious
affiliation. Scholarships may be awarded by colleges, private groups or states.
Student Aid Report (SAR): After you file the Free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you will receive a
SAR stating your EFC (expected family contribution) and eligibility for financial aid. This report is also sent to the colleges you indicate on the FAFSA.
Student Loan: financial aid that must be repaid. Student loan programs are available through the federal
government and private lenders.
Work-Study: Financial aid given in exchange for work (typically at a job on campus). To qualify for the Federal
Work Study (FWS) program, you must complete the FAFSA.
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TESTING
SAT DATES
TEST DATE TEST REGISTRATION
DEADLINE
LATE REGISTRATION
MAIL/ONLINE/PHONE
MARCH 11, 2017 SAT ONLY FEBRUARY 10, 2017 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
FEBRUARY 28, 2017
MAY 6, 2017 SAT &
SAT SUBJECT TESTS APRIL 7, 2017
APRIL 18, 2017
APRIL 25, 2017
JUNE 3, 2017 SAT &
SAT SUBJECT TESTS MAY 9, 2017
MAY 16, 2017
MAY24, 2017
ACT DATES
TEST DATE REGISTRATION DEADLINE (LATE FEE REQUIRED)
FEBRUARY 11, 2017 JANUARY 13, 2017 JANUARY 14-20, 2017
APRIL 8, 2017 MARCH 7, 2017 MARCH 4–17, 2017
JUNE 10, 2017 MAY 5, 2017 MAY 6–19, 2017
TEST DAY CHECK LIST MUST BRING:
Admission Ticket
No. 2 pencils (2) and a soft eraser
Photo Identification - You will be denied entrance to the test center if you can't present acceptable ID, if the validity of the ID is in question, or if you fail to follow the Identification Requirements and Policies.
NICE TO HAVE:
Acceptable calculator: graphing, scientific, or four-function (not recommended)
NOT PERMITTED AS A CALCULATOR: laptop or portable computer; cell phone; electronic writing pad or pen-
input/stylus-driven device (e.g. Palm, P.D.A.s, Casio ClassPad 300) Note: The Sharp EL-9600 may be used without the
stylus; pocket organizer; calculator that has QWERTY (keyboard-like) keypad (e.g., TI-92 Plus, Voyage 200);
calculator that uses an electrical outlet, makes noise or has a paper tape
A silent watch
Extra batteries and backup equipment
A bag or backpack
A drink or snacks (for your break)
WHAT NOT TO BRING:
Cell Phones- The use of cell phones and certain other electronic devices as noted below is prohibited within SAT test
centers, and you should not bring these devices to the test center.
iPods and iPads
MP3 players
Laptops, notebooks, tablets or any other personal computing device
Timers of any type (watch included)
Cameras or other photographic equipment
Any device capable of recording audio, photographic or video content, or capable of viewing or playing back such content
8
QUALITIES ADMISSIONS COUNSELORS ARE LOOKING
FOR IN PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
Challenging high school curriculum
Grades that represent a strong upward trend
Solid scores on standardized tests
Passionate involvement in a few activities demonstrating leadership and
initiative
Letters of recommendation that give evidence of integrity, special skills, positive
character traits and an interest in learning.
Special talents or experiences that will contribute to an interesting and well-
rounded student body.
A well-written essay that provides insight into the student’s personality, values
and goals.
Enthusiasm in attending the college. Demonstration of interest.
Work and community service experiences that show dedication and
responsibility.
Demonstrated intellectual curiosity through reading, school, and leisure pursuits.
9
WHAT INFORMATION IS CONTAINED ON
A HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT?
A. BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT THE SCHOOL:
1. Accreditation of High School
2. Whether the school is public or private
3. Enrollment
4. Percent of Graduating class entering two- and four-year colleges
5. Marking System
6. Explanation of Honors or Innovative Courses
7. Method used in determining Rank in Class
B. STUDENT INFORMATION
1. Biological Data
2. Subjects Listed by Grade
a. Level of courses
b. Final marks for grades 9-11
c. Credits received
3. Rank in Class: Actual numerical rank is not calculated. A percentage
distribution scale is included on the document.
a. At End of Junior Year and Used for Entire Senior Year
b. At End of Senior Year – Used for Final Transcript Send to colleges or
for transfer students.
4. Activities, Athletics, Academic Awards, etc., are not listed on the transcript.
The student includes these on his/her application. The student’s counselor
will also verify such participation through the recommendation sent to each
college.
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ACADEMIC HISTORY CRS ID COURSE TITLE MARK CREDIT
WORK IN PROGRESS CRS ID COURSE TITLE M1 M2
14-15 Somerville High School 0100 English 1 CP 94 05.00 0345 Algebra 1 89 05.00 0425 Biology CP 89 06.00 0505 World Studies 89 05.00 0603 Concert choir 100 05.00 0700 Exp Art 94 05.00
0801 Phys Ed 9 94 03.75 0802 Health 9 87 01.25
15-16 Somerville High School 0120 English 2 CP 94 05.00 0262 French 2 89 05.00 0365 Geometry 89 05.00 0435 Chemistry CP 84 06.00 0525 US History 1 CP 89 05.00
0807 Phys Ed 10 94 03.75 0808 Health 10 87 01.25 0742 ‘A’ Cappela Choir 96 05.00
16-17 Somerville High School 0135 English 3 CP 91 05.00 0263 French 3 92 05.00
0320 Algebra 2 87 05.00 0455 Physics CP 87 06.00 0540 US History 2 CP 86 05.00 6000 SAT Prep 96 05.00 0813 Phys Ed 11 98 03.75 0814 Health 11 84 01.25
17-18 Somerville High School 0150 English 4 CP 85 87 0485 Comp.Ant/Phys 88 90 0555 Crim & Civil Law 84 86 0567 Sociology/Pop Cult 86 90 0710 Comm. Design 92 91 0813 Phys Ed 12 100
0814 Health 12 83
School Accredited by:
X State System
X Reg. Accred. Assoc.
X Public
Enrollment Grades 9-12: 1140
2016 Graduates
Entering College
62% 4-Yr
35% 2-Yr
Passing Mark – 65
Grade Distribution
Class of 2018
Top 5% = 97.20 - Above
Top 10% = 95.20 - 97.04
Top 15% = 93.76 - 95.16
Top 20% = 93.13 - 93.69
Top 25% = 91.83 - 93.08
Top 30% = 90.72 - 91.80
Top 40% = 88.47 - 90.64
Top 50% = 86.00 - 88.44
COMMENTS
Enter Date: 09/09/14
Class of: 2018
Graduated:
School Name/Address
Somerville High School
222 Davenport Street
Somerville NJ, 08876
Tel: 908-218-4108 Fax: 908-707-0971
Student Name
Doe, Jane Student ID Grade Gender
1111 12 M Date of Birth State Student Number
7/22/2000 12345678910 Address
123 Street Blvd.
Somerville, NJ 08876
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THE COLLEGE SEARCH
STRUCTURING YOUR LIST OF COLLEGES
Three categories: Probable, Target, Reach
Probable: Your GPA and test scores are above the average admitted student; likely acceptance
Target: Your GPA and test scores are a close match to the average admitted student; 50/50 chance
Reach: Your GPA and test scores are below the average admitted student
8-10 schools; 2-4 in each category
FINDING A GOOD FIT
Academic and testing admission fit
Determined by COLLEGE
Do your scores and grades fit the school profile
Social & Academic Fit
Determined by the STUDENT
Does the school have your major, interests, social life?
Financial fit
Determined by FAMILY
Can you afford the school? Consider hidden costs and aid
ESSAY WRITING
One of the only places on application where you have control
Answer the question/prompt presented
Edit and re-edit. Multiple drafts are normal
Share with a peer, teacher, parent(s), counselor
Draft these -save yourself the panic in 12th grade! Essay writing takes time and you want to present your
best work
Supplemental essay
Continued to next page
12
BUILD YOUR RESUME
Activities
Community Service
Employment
Awards
Hobbies
Talents
Unique experiences
Summer experiences
Home responsibilities (caring for animals, siblings, family members, helping with family business, etc.)
Don’t undervalue anything you do. This is your place to shine!
ADMISSIONS PLANS
Regular Decision - Non-binding
Rolling Admission - Non-Binding
Early Action - Non-binding (Single Choice EA)
Early Decision - Binding
PRESENTING YOURSELF TO COLLEGES
Clean up Facebook, Twitter, and all social media pages! Check your privacy settings
Be professional in emails and all other correspondence
Email address, screen name, password
Google Search yourself! (Web and image search)
Keep your communication normal; no text slang
Dress appropriately for tours, and especially interviews
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2017 SPRING COLLEGE FAIR
April 5, 2017 – 6:30pm to 8:30pm in HS
Gymnasium
Last year we had over 80 colleges &
universities
All NJ schools represented & many from
Northeast
Excellent way to gather information quickly
Ability to make an impression on
admissions reps
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Tips for a Successful College Fair Experience
Before the Fair
Consider all characteristics of colleges- location, size, admission statistics, student body, academic programs,
clubs/organizations, athletics, job placement rates, and more. Use the search and comparison features on Naviance
and College Board to narrow down your type of college. Review college websites before the fair to identify
questions you may have for colleges. Review the list of colleges attending so you can plan to visit with those
colleges and have an effective fair experience.
What to Bring
Bring a notepad and writing utensil to jot down thoughts about colleges and to keep track of important questions to
ask. OUR FAVORITE TIP: Make self-stick labels with pertinent information so you don’t have to fill out so
many information cards in one evening. This way, you can use your time to chat, not write. Colleges will request
your information on these cards so they can keep in touch with you. The following information should appear on
your self-stick label, but please note that information cards may ask for more or less information. Any size self-
stick label is fine, but you many need a larger label to fit all of the information.
Name
Mailing Address
City, State, Zip Code
Phone Number(s) and Email
High School
Graduation Year
College Major/Area of Interest
During the Fair
Make sure you pick up a map and a bag for handouts. Focus on the colleges you really want to know about,
especially those colleges you may not have a chance to physically visit in the near future. Show your
“demonstration of interest”. Ask questions and request materials and business cards from the representatives. Take
a few minutes after each visit to jot down notes from your conversation. Plan to allow a few minutes at the end to
stop by booths you didn’t plan on visiting- your never know which unexpected colleges could be a match for you.
After the Fair
Organize your thoughts, notes, and materials. Visit websites and take the “virtual tour” that may be offered on the
website. Begin to consider which colleges you would like to physically visit- possibly those schools that really
impressed you at the fair. If you had a very successful conversation with a representative, consider sending a note
of thanks and appreciation. Continue showing “demonstration of interest”.
Final Tip
Students- you should be speaking with the representatives. While it is understandable and common for parents to
ask questions, you should approach them first and start the conversation. Do no stand behind your parent(s), letting
them do the talking. After all, this is YOUR college education!
15
QUESTIONS TO ASK COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVES
Questions about students
How would you characterize the majority of your students?
Ex. Hofstra says “Grit”
Social Life & Campus Activities
What do students do for fun?
Many schools have an student activities board that creates fun event for students,
such as concerts
Campus Facilities
What kind of facilities does the student center have?
Many schools make this a hub for student involvement with many activities going on.
Academics
How would you characterize the academic pressure and workload?
Are there research possibilities with the faculty?
THE COLLEGE VISIT
This fall we had approximately 100 schools visit
Students sign up in Naviance to visit with the school
Many colleges track student interest through these meetings (contact card)
A great way to obtain an overview of colleges and programs
Visits are generally small and participatory
THE CAMPUS VISITS
Best way to learn about a school
Tracked by admissions
3 excused visits per year
Optional add ons
Overnight visits
Lunch in cafeteria
Sit in on a class
Interview
16
COLLEGE VISIT CHECKLIST
To help you find the right college, fill out one of these forms each time you visit a school.
College Name:
City:
State:
Size:
Tuition:
Room & Board:
Financial Aid Options
TO DO LIST
Talk to professor
Visit the library
Tour Campus
Sit in on a class
Eat at a cafeteria
Talk to an admissions
counselor
Read the college newspaper
Check out the computer lab
Talk to students
Visit student housing
Read bulletin boards
Check out recreational
facilities
Check out student activities
Tour the city around campus
Eat at an off-campus student
hang-out
Picture yourself living here
RATE IT
On a scale of 1-5, 5 being the
best, rate the following:
People: _________
Social Life: _______
Classrooms: _______
Residential Halls: _______
Town: _______
Campus: ________
Food: _______
ASK A STUDENT
What is the best part about this college?
What is the worst part?
What is a typical day like?
What do the students do on the weekends?
How are the classes structured?
Why did you choose this college?
THE BEST PART ABOUT MY VISIT
THE WORST PART ABOUT MY VISIT
Source: Cappex www.cappex.com/campusvisits
17
COMPARATIVE
RUTGERS VS. PURDUE
RUTGERS
AVG GPA = 3.5
ACT = 28
SAT EBRW = 575
SAT M = 620
Last year 92 applied and 51 were admitted
PURDUE
AVG GPA = 3.5
ACT = 27
SAT EBRW = 575
SAT M = 625
Last year 6 applied and 6 were admitted
Students applying to Purdue were almost twice as likely to be admitted as those that
applied to Rutgers!
----------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND EMPLOYERS
Leadership – Consider taking on a leadership role in a club, activity, or sport.
Written Communication – Our school offers a college writing course through
RVCC during the 12th
grade year. Consider taking advantage of this
opportunity.
Teamwork – Many courses require students to collaborate on group projects.
This theme will continue after high school.
Problem Solving – Increasingly, employers are looking for individuals who
can identify and solve problems.
Verbal Communication – The ability to express complex information into
every day speech.
18
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF ABOUT COLLEGE Do you want to attend a large university or small college?
How far from home do you want to go to school?
Do you prefer a city campus, a suburban location, or a small town?
What program of study do you wish to pursue?
Are there activities such as sports or clubs in which you want to participate during college?
SUGGESTED QUESTIONS TO ASK COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVES
Admission: What percent of last year’s applicant pool was admitted through early decision, early action or single
choice early action?
What factors do you consider when making an admission decision?
What is the GPA of the average entering freshman? Do you use the high school’s GPA or do you
recalculate? If so, how?
What kind of courses should I be taking in my senior year of high school?
Is the ACT/SAT required? Are SAT Subject Tests required? How much emphasis do you place on the
writing section of the SAT Reasoning Test?
What scores are in the middle 50% of entering freshmen?
Do you recommend an interview?
Financial Aid: What are the basic costs for a year (tuition, room/board, fees, in-state/out-of-state)?
What is the total estimated student budget for a year?
What kind of financial aid programs are available? How do I start the process?
How many students receive financial aid?
What is the average award?
What kind of scholarship opportunities are there?
Programs of Study: Do you have my major?
What are your top programs?
What unique programs does your institution offer?
What is your job placement rate for graduating students?
Do you have an honors program? What is the application process?
Campus Life: What is the total enrollment? What is the total undergraduate enrollment? What is the male/female ration?
How many students live on campus? Do you guarantee housing for 4 years?
What activities are available? Sports? Arts? Clubs? Fraternities? Sororities?
What safety measures do you have in place on your campus?
19
RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Open Enrollment
Not all students take college level courses
Some must first take developmental courses
Multiple programs are available at RVCC
Early Credit Program
Dual Enrollment Program (Dance)
Concurrent Enrollment Program
Associates Degree Program
The Honors College
Certificate Programs
Job Training Program
Placement Test/SAT Scores
Accuplacer (Online Test)
550 Math, 540 Critical EBRW to test out
Most students must take the foreign language placement test
No calculators are permitted on the placement test
There is a limited use of an online calculator
Foreign Language Requirement
Most majors require two semesters of a foreign language
Spanish and French are available
IEP/504 Students
Limited accommodations are available
There are no course modifications
Contact RVCC Disabilities Services: (908) 526-1200 x8418
E-MAIL: [email protected]
20
RVCC HONORS COLLEGE
http://www.raritanval.edu/academic-programs/honors-college
The Honors College at RVCC is an excellent way for high-achieving students to enrich their academic
experience and to enhance their credentials for both college transfer and competitive employment
markets.
Honors College graduates fortify their transcripts and increase their chances of admission to highly
selective colleges. RVCC is developing Honors College transfer relationships with outstanding four-
year colleges that increase students’ chances of admission and transfer scholarships. Honors courses
are smaller, seminar-style, have an interdisciplinary focus and afford students a closer working
relationship with their professors.
To be eligible for the Honors College, students should:
Be in Top 20% of their graduating class
Have an unweighted cumulative GPA of 3.50
DUAL ENROLLMENT
Our Dual Enrollment program is part of the 12th Grade Option Program that will increase their options
to begin preparation for a college education or a career following graduation. The programs offered
provide multiple and diverse paths leading to success for all students.
The Raritan Valley Community College Senior Year Option Enrollment Program is a partnership
program linking high schools and the College to provide qualified high school seniors the opportunity
to enroll in challenging courses normally taken by College freshman. Seniors may take day, evening,
weekend or online courses at any RVCC location.
The basic premise of the Senior Year Option Dual Enrollment Program is for students to increase their
educational options, to enhance their opportunities for challenging and beneficial work and to begin
preparation for their future college education or career.
This program will provide an opportunity for qualified seniors to receive college credit and college
experience prior to high school graduation. Students who successfully complete course work taken
through the Senior Year Option Dual Enrollment Program will have their earned college credits
documented on a regular RVCC transcript. These credits can either be applied to RVCC degree
programs or transferred to other colleges and universities across the nation. Equal high school credit
will be awarded for the college course. Credit will be noted as pass/fail and will not be included in the
student’s GPA. Interested students should see their guidance counselors for application forms.
21
NJ STARS www.njstars.net
NJ STARS is a scholarship program exclusively for New Jersey residents that covers the cost of tuition at New
Jersey's 19 community colleges. Students who rank in the top 15 percent of their high school class at the end of either
junior or senior year may be eligible.
Students must complete a rigorous series of high school courses as a first step toward eligibility, as determined by the
New Jersey Commission on Higher Education in consultation with the New Jersey Commissioner of Education.
Students must take at least 12 college credits per semester and will be allowed to take up to 18 credits each semester if
they are able to handle the course load and wish to accelerate their graduation. Students will be permitted to use
summer sessions as part of their five semesters of eligibility, depending on state appropriation. Students will be
permitted to take fewer than 12 credits in their final semester if they need fewer than 12 credits to graduate (effective
for Spring 2009 and up NJ STARS enrollees). Students have five (5) semesters of eligibility for NJ STARS. Students
majoring in areas that require an additional 6th semester (nursing and engineering only) will be able to retain their
eligibility for NJ STARS II. However, those students will have to pay for the additional semester at the community
college.
Students who score 450 or better on the Evidence-based Reading and Writing (ERW) and 500 or better on the Math
portions of the SAT are considered college- ready. Students who score a 4 or 5 on the Partnership for Assessment of
Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) English Language Arts/Literacy Grade 11 exam and a 4 or 5 on the
PARCC Algebra II exam are considered college-ready. Students who do not take the SAT or achieve the required
PARCC test scores will have to take a college placement test selected by the New Jersey Council of County Colleges
when they receive their conditional NJ STARS eligibility letter from the New Jersey Higher Education Student
Assistance Authority. Community colleges will administer the test and may create partnerships with districts to have
on-site testing as well.
Students who do not achieve the required placement test scores will be notified by the college that they are currently in
need of developmental courses prior to pursuing college course work through the NJ STARS program. Students will be
able to take appropriate courses while still in high school to improve their skills or they can attend developmental
courses at the community college while enrolled in high school.
Students who graduate from high school and still need developmental course work will be given up to one year at their
own cost or using other non-STARS funds to gain the skills they need to be college ready. They will not be considered
NJ STARS scholars until they meet the requirement, but they will still have five semesters of eligibility upon meeting
the requirements during that year. Students must complete all developmental courses by September 1st of the year
following high school graduation.
Students who have earned college credits during high school will be able to submit those credits for consideration to the
community college, and upon meeting the established criteria should have those credits applied to their degree. Those
students who have earned an associate degree with a 3.25 grade point average or better while enrolled in high school
will be eligible to apply directly to a senior New Jersey public college or university for inclusion in NJ STARS II.
Dependent students of military families assigned to a military base and whose parents have established New Jersey as
their state of residence will be eligible for NJ STARS as long as all other conditions are met.
Students must earn a 3.25 cumulative grade point average upon graduation from community college to be eligible for
NJ STARS II.
Students who meet the top 15 percent requirement must first apply for all other federal and state financial aid available
to them by filing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually within New Jersey's deadline. If a
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student receives financial aid, NJ STARS will cover the remaining cost of tuition. If a student is not eligible for
financial aid, NJ STARS will cover the entire cost of tuition.
NJ STARS students must be enrolled in an associate degree program at a New Jersey community college.
NJ STARS students must maintain continuous full-time enrollment at a New Jersey community college, unless the
student is on approved medical leave or is on active military duty.
NJ STARS students must have a 3.0 or better grade point average moving from freshmen to sophomore years to be
eligible for scholarship renewal for the second year.
For more information about NJ STARS and other state-sponsored scholarships and financial aid programs, visit
the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.
NJ STARS II
NJ STARS Students Can Earn a Significant Scholarship Towards Their Bachelor's Degrees with NJ STARS II
New Jersey community college NJ STARS students who earn their associate's degrees with a 3.25 grade point average
or better are eligible for up to a $2,500 per year NJ STARS II scholarship at any New Jersey public or independent NJ
TAG-participating four-year college or university.
The State funds 100% of the NJ STARS II award, while students will be responsible for any remaining balance.
NJ STARS II students have up to four semesters to complete their baccalaureate degrees.
NJ STARS II students must maintain a 3.25 grade point average in their junior year to receive the scholarship in their
senior year.
Students whose family income exceeds $250,000 will not be eligible for NJ STARS II.
Please note: all NJ STARS students applying to transfer to NJ public or independent NJ TAG-participating colleges and
universities must meet all transfer requirements. NJ STARS II eligibility does not guarantee admission to your NJ
TAG-participating college or university of choice.
For more information, please contact your local community college, the participating four-year public colleges and
universities, or visit the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.
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NCAA ELIGIBILITY for DIVISION I or
DIVISION II ATHLETICS
According to the NCAA, only 2 percent of high school athletes are awarded athletics scholarships to
compete in college. This small number means high school student-athletes and their parents need to
have realistic expectations about receiving an athletic scholarship to play sports in college. Academic,
not athletic, achievement is the most reliable path to success in life.
OVERVIEW The National Collegiate Athletic Association operates under a series of policies that are used to determine if a high
school athlete is eligible to participate in Division I or Division II athletic programs. There is no flexibility or
appeal process for prospective athletes who do not meet these requirements. It is also important to note that being
eligible to play Division I or II athletics, does not guarantee the student athlete a spot on the team or scholarship
money.
The chart below outlines the process that must be followed to ensure that student athletes meet all NCAA
requirements and included in the eligibility determination process. The subsequent pages of this document provide
greater detail on each step.
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THE KEY PLAYERS IN THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Not every student athlete is going to follow the exact same path through the recruitment process. In some
instances, college coaches will approach the student, other times the student will reach out to the college, and in a
third scenario high school coaches will contact colleges on behalf of the student. Some students will be recruited
as early as Middle School while others will not get attention until Senior Year. Regardless of how this process
plays out, it is imperative that all key people receive regular updates to ensure that all academic requirements and
timelines are met.
Regular updates about recruitment between these three
groups are essential to help ensure that each
student-athlete maximizes his/her potential for eligibility.
A prospective college athlete needs to start taking Core Courses during freshmen year of high school, but a
guidance counselor will not know to schedule these classes if he/she is not made aware of the student’s
aspirations to play Division I or Division II athletics. (see Core Courses below for more info)
College coaches will primarily have contact with the student/parents and the high school coach. In the
event that a college coach contacts a Guidance Counselor, the counselor will only discuss the student’s
academic standing or release information if a signed Transcript Release Form is on file from the student.
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CORE COURSES – as part of the eligibility process, students are required to complete 16 NCAA-approved
courses in the following content areas:
Division I Division II
English 4 years 3 years
Math (Algebra 1 or higher) 3 years 2 years
Natural/Physical Science
(1 year of lab if offered by the high school) 2 years 2 years
Additional English, Math, Science 1 year 3 years
Social Science 2 years 2 years
Additional Courses from English, Math, Science,
Foreign Language, or Comparative Religion/Philosophy 4 years 4 years
10 of the 16 Core Course requirements must be satisfied once the student has completed six semesters
of high school
7 of those first 10 Core Courses must be from the English, Math and Science Content Area
Grades earned in those 10 Core Courses are "Locked In" for the purpose of calculating the final Core
Course GPA. Any retakes of the first 10 Core Courses for grade improvement must be completed prior
to Senior Year
The list below indicates the Somerville High School courses that have been approved by the NCAA as Core
Courses. This list is updated annually based on any additions to the Somerville High School course catalog.
English Math Science Social Science World Language
AP English Advanced Algebra AP Biology AP European Hist AP French
Creative Writing Algebra 1CP AP Chemistry AP Gov and Pol French 1CP
English 1CP Algebra 2CP AP Physics 1 AP Human Geo French 2CP
English 1H Algebra 2H AP Physics 2 AP Psychology French 2H
English 2CP AP Calculus AB Biology CP AP US History French 3CP
English 2H AP Calculus BC Biology H Big History French 3H
English 3CP AP Statistics Chemistry CP Crime & Civil Law French 4CP
English 3H Calculus Chemistry H Economics French 4H
English 4CP Geometry CP Comp Anat & Phys Human Conscience French 5CP
English 4/Comp 1 Geometry H Marine Biology Psychology AP Spanish
Journalism Pre-Calculus CP Physics CP US History 1CP Spanish 1CP
Shakespeare Pre-Calculus H Physics H US History 1H Spanish 2CP
Women’s Studies Statistics CP US History 2CP Spanish 2H
World Studies CP Spanish 3CP
World Studies H Spanish 3H
Spanish 4CP
Spanish 4H
Spanish 5CP
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GPA CALCULATION
The NCAA recalculates a student’s GPA using only the Core Courses on his/her final high school transcript. The
NCAA uses a 4.0 scale and converts from Somerville’s 100-point scale using the following conversion.
NCAA Conversion
SHS Grade CP Level Honors or AP
100-90 4 5
89-80 3 4
79-70 2 3
69-65 1 2
The converted grade is then multiplied by 0.5 credits for a semester course or 1.00 credits for a full year course to
compute GPA quality points. The quality points from all core classes are then added together and the sum is
divided by the total number of credits to determine a final GPA. Important to note: an 80 and an 89 receive the
same weight according the NCAA and the difference between a 79 and an 80 is significant.
The following is a sample GPA conversion using only a small set of core courses:
Course Year-End
SHS Grade
NCAA
Conversion
NCAA
Credits
Quality
Points Notes
English 4CP 79 2 1 2
AP Physics 1 87 4 1 4 Converts to a 4 because it's AP
US History 2CP 89 3 1 3
Intro to Sociology 95 4 0.5 2 One semester course
Music 100 n/a n/a n/a Is not an approved Core Course
SHS GPA = 90.617
NCAA GPA = 3.143
SAT/ACT SLIDING SCALE – once the student’s GPA is recalculated by the NCAA, it is compared to the
student’s SAT and/or ACT scores. Students with a higher GPA are able to use lower SAT/ACT scores, while
students with a lower GPA must earn higher scores on those tests in order to maintain eligibility. A complete
listing of this sliding scale is available in the Appendix A of this document. The student is responsible for
reporting his/her scores directly to the Eligibility Center using School Code 9999. Any test scores submitted by
Somerville High School will not be considered official.
A minimum GPA of 2.3 along with the corresponding SAT/ACT scores are required
to be eligible for athletic competition in the student’s first year of college.
A minimum GPA of 2.0 along with the corresponding SAT/ACT scores are required
to be eligible for Red Shirt status in the student’s first year of college.
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NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTER – this website serves as the central hub used to report and track all student data,
high school information, and college recruitment. Each group has its own roles and responsibilities within this site
to ensure that each prospective athlete is properly reviewed by the NCAA Eligibility Center to determine final
eligibility upon graduation from high school.
Student Responsibility –
1. Create a Certification Account and pay the $80 registration fee once a college coach has indicated that
he/she will be placed on the college’s Institutional Request List (IRL). A student can create this account
without consulting college coaches, but will end up wasting $80 if he/she is not officially recruited by a
college program.
2. Ensure SAT/ACT scores are reported to the Eligibility Center using School Code 9999
3. After April 1 of his/her Senior Year, submit a request for Final Amateurism Certification Decision
4. If a student has not received a firm commitment from a college and does not wish to pay $80 prematurely,
he/she may create a free Profile Page and convert that Profile to a Certification Account at a later date.
Somerville High School Responsibility – update/modify the list of NCAA-approved courses as needed and upload a
student’s final high school transcript upon graduation.
College Coach Responsibility – add the prospective athlete’s name to the college’s Institutional Request List. Only
students listed on each college’s IRL will be receive a Final Amateurism Certification Decision. Any verbal or
written commitment from a coach is null and void if this formal review has not occurred.
NCAA Eligibility Center Website www.eligibilitycenter.org
Costumer Service Phone 877-262-1492 Fax 317-968-5100
Mailing Address NCAA Eligibility Center
Certification Processing
PO Box 7136
Indianapolis, IN 46207-7136
College Board CEEB Code 9999
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Appendix A
NCAA Sliding Scale for SAT/ACT and GPA Requirements
New SAT Total Score (March 2016 or later)
Old SAT Total Score (prior to March 2016)
ACT Minimum
GPA Required
400 400 37 3.55 or higher
410 410 38 3.525
420 410 38 3.525
430 420 39 3.5
440 430 40 3.475
450 430 40 3.475
460 440 41 3.45
470 450 41 3.425
480 450 41 3.425
490 460 42 3.4
500 470 42 3.375
510 470 42 3.375
520 480 43 3.35
530 490 44 3.325
540 490 44 3.325
550 500 44 3.3
560 510 45 3.275
570 510 45 3.275
580 520 46 3.25
590 530 46 3.225
600 540 47 3.2
610 540 47 3.2
620 550 47 3.175
630 560 48 3.15
640 560 48 3.15
650 570 49 3.125
660 580 49 3.1
670 580 49 3.1
680 590 50 3.075
690 600 50 3.05
700 600 50 3.05
710 610 51 3.025
720 620 52 3
730 630 52 2.975
740 640 53 2.95
750 660 54 2.9
29
760 670 55 2.875
770 680 56 2.85
780 690 56 2.825
790 700 57 2.8
800 710 58 2.775
810 720 59 2.75
820 730 60 2.725
830 740 61 2.7
840 750 61 2.675
850 760 62 2.65
860 780 64 2.6
870 790 65 2.575
880 800 66 2.55
890 810 67 2.525
900 820 68 2.5
910 830 69 2.475
920 840 70 2.45
930 850 70 2.425
940 860 71 2.4
950 870 72 2.375
960 880 73 2.35
970 890 74 2.325
980 900 75 2.3
990 910 76 2.299
1000 920 77 2.25
1010 930 78 2.225
1020 940 79 2.2
1030 950 80 2.175
1040 960 81 2.15
1050 970 82 2.125
1060 980 83 2.1
1070 990 84 2.075
1080 1000 85 2.05
1090 1010 86 2.025
1100 1020 86 2
30
NOTES
31
NOTES