Between classes and extracurricular activities, high school students have a lot on their plates. At a time when it should be at the forefront of their mind, they can forget about college admission and requirements.
4 Common College Admission Requirements to Ease the College Application Process
1. Standardized Test Scores
If your soon-to-be college student has not yet taken the SAT and/or ACT, talk about scheduling them. There are prep courses that are offered that can help your student succeed. If they have already taken these tests and are beginning applications, make sure that your best scores are sent to the schools of your choice.
2. School Transcripts
One of the most important things your prospective colleges will want to see is your high school transcripts. Have your student schedule a meeting with their school guidance counselor and give them a list of the schools where they will be applying. Your school will send official copies of your transcripts to those schools.
3. AP Scores
If your student has taken any AP courses in his or her senior year, make sure their scores are sent over to the colleges as well. These scores can potentially merit college credit and put your student ahead of the game with their degree.
4. Application Essays or Personal Statement
Most college applications require an essay or personal statement. Students are typically required to answer a few questions, or may be prompted to write about themselves. Focus on making these essays unique for each school you are applying to.
Pay Attention to Deadlines
Most college applications have strict deadlines to submit all of these required materials. Once your student has chosen a few schools to apply to, research their requirements and deadlines. While the above list covers basic requirements, the schools you are applying to may require more or less.
Be Prepared to Work After You Have Been Accepted
Most colleges require some work to be done after you have been accepted. There may be placement tests to determine your skill level and class placement. There are also financial aid applications to fill out and scholarship deadlines. Typically, a list of requirements will be sent with your acceptance letter. Stay on top of those deadlines and your transition to college should be stress free and successful.
Enjoy the Journey
This is a huge time for both you and your student. Try not be overwhelmed with the process and enjoy the journey along the way. Explore the campuses of the potential schools and determine which school is going to be a great fit.
Sources:
https://www.universitylanguage.com/guides/college-admission-requirements/
https://www.petersons.com/college-search/high-school-senior-admissions-checklist.aspx
https://www.petersons.com/college-search/college-admission-test-scores.aspx
https://www.petersons.com/college-search/college-admission-requirements-transcript.aspx
https://www.petersons.com/college-search/college-admission-key-terms.aspx
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/get-in/applying-101/college-admission-glossary
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2009/11/08/top-10-college-admissions-tips
http://www.today.com/parents/11-college-tips-editor-princeton-review-t107623