Getting Ready for College

Frequently Asked Questions

WHEN TO BEGIN THINKING ABOUT COLLEGE?

 Right Now!

WHO CAN GO TO COLLEGE? 

You can!

WHAT TO DO?
   
    First and most important, explore your different interests.  Ask yourself why you want to go to college?  What dreams and goals do you have yourself?  If your are not sure, now is the time to talk to your parents, teachers and guidance counselor.

HOW TO SELECT A COLLEGE?

      Determine what is important to you in selecting a college.
        *Types of programs?       
        *Location to home?
        *Two-year vs. four-year?   
        *Tuition/costs?
        *Campus atmosphere?
       
    Next, conduct college searches by:
        *Reviewing College books/websites
        *Taking a tour
        *Talking to admission counselor

     Lastly, make sure you are aware of the admissions criteria for     your top three schools.  For example, is there a GPA and/or   SAT/ACT requirement?
 
WHAT STEPS TO TAKE TO APPLY?  

     Complete applications for your “choice” schools by the deadlines!
   
    Submit transcripts and test scores (be sure to indicate on SAT/ACT tests the school codes for the colleges).
   
    Apply for financial aid and ALL available scholarships!

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO TO GET READY FOR COLLEGE?

 1.  Get the best grades possible.  Start in your freshman year
 as your GPA is cumulative (includes all semesters).

 2.  Be a well rounded student.  Get involved in school activities and  show your leadership skills whenever possible!

 3.  Practice test taking skills for FCAT as well as SAT/ACT.

 4.  Work on Volunteer hours as you will need 75 hours to
 qualify for Bright Futures.

 5.  Speaking of Bright Futures go to www.facts.org to learn
 about all your options.

 6.  Explore different career options by visiting the CRC.

One last thing........

Did you know the State University System has specific requirements? 

1.  The mathematics course must be at least Algebra I or above levels.

2.  Both credits in Foreign Language must be in the same language.

3.  Weight will be given to honors, gifted, dual enrollment, and Advanced Placement courses in the computation of the final grade point average. Advanced Placement courses will be weighted more than the others.

4.  Did you continue to take challenging courses in your Senior year?