GHCHS COLLEGE APPLICATION GUIDE BOOK

Transcription

1 GHCHS COLLEGE APPLICATION GUIDE BOOK 1

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3 Table of Contents Summary of Student Responsibilities 5 Testing 6 Sat Reasoning, Act and Sat Subject Tests Overview 6 Testing Schedule 6 Sending Your Scores 7 Special Test Preparation Programs 7 Advanced Placement Tests 7 Testing Information at a Glance 7 Sat Tips 9 Act Tips 9 Frequently Asked Sat/Act Questions 9 Applying To California Community Colleges 11 Fast Facts 11 Benefits of California Community Colleges 11 Minimum Requirements 12 Application Process 12 Average CCC Transfer Rates 12 Applying to the California State University (CSU) 13 Overview 13 Minimum Requirements 13 Application Process 13 Fast Facts 14 Applying to the University Of California15 Overview 15 Fast Facts 15 Minimum Requirements 15 Application Process UC Freshman Application Data on CA Residents 17 UC Eligibility in Local Context 17 Tips for the Application 17 Applying to Private Colleges/Universities and Out of State Public Universities 19 Application Forms19 High School Documents Sent From Counselor 19 The Personal Statement (Essay) 20 Teacher Recommendations 21 Attending College Out Of State 23 Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) Program 23 WUE Eligible School List 23 WUE Eligible Majors by School 23 3

4 Financial Aid 24 Financial Aid Overview 24 Aid and Other Resources from the Federal Government 24 California State Grant (Cal Grants) 27 Cal Grant Eligibility 27 California Grants (VARIOUS) 28 Scholarships Overview 29 Scholarships Frequently Asked Questions 29 Work Study Overview 30 Work-Study Frequently Asked Questions 30 Loans Overview 31 Loans- Frequently Asked Questions 31 Federal Loans Overview 32 Basic Eligibility Criteria 32 Financial Aid Frequently Asked Questions 33 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Overview 34 Items Needed To Complete FAFSA 35 Expected Family Contribution (EFC) 36 FAFSA Frequently Asked Questions 37 Financial Aid Resources 39 Glossary of Terms for Financial Aid and College 41 4

5 SUMMARY OF STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Register and take required tests - SAT Reasoning Test with Writing, SAT Subject Tests, or ACT with Writing by December of senior year. 2. Arrange for SAT and/or ACT test scores to be sent to colleges after applying to the colleges. 3. Attend College and Career Office workshops and events. 4. Complete assigned Naviance tasks and follow timeline for each grade level. 5. Obtain, complete, and submit college applications & financial aid materials for each college. 6. Review essay topics for all colleges of interest, write the essays, and submit. 7. Keep track of all deadlines. 5

6 TESTING The Granada Hills Charter High School CEEB code number is You must include this code to assure that your scores are sent to GHCHS. You are responsible for making sure the appropriate scores are sent to all the schools to which you are applying. Requirements and other testing policies vary significantly between institutions, so please be sure to review testing policies at each school. SAT Reasoning, ACT and SAT Subject Tests Overview Standardized tests are an unavoidable part of the process. Almost all colleges require the SAT Reasoning Test or ACT, and many private colleges also require two SAT Subject Tests (there are a few schools that recommend three). Schools do not have a preference as to whether you take the SAT or ACT. Note carefully any specific requirements of the colleges to which you are applying. The SAT Reasoning Test assesses students' critical thinking skills and knowledge in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics. Each section of the SAT Reasoning Test is scored on a scale of , with two writing subscores for multiple-choice questions and the essay. The SAT Reasoning Test tells students how well they use the skills and knowledge they have attained in and outside of the classroom including how they think, solve problems, and communicate. Registration information is available online at The SAT Subject Tests measure your knowledge and skills in particular subject areas, and your ability to apply that knowledge. SAT Subject Tests are offered in English (Literature), Mathematics (Math I and Math II), History (US History and World History), Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) and Foreign Languages (Chinese, French, German, Spanish, Modern Hebrew, Italian, Latin, Japanese, and Korean). The ACT test is designed and administered by a company other than the Educational Testing Service (which puts out the SAT Reasoning and SAT Subject Tests). Therefore, the test dates and locations are different. Registration information is available online at The ACT tests your academic skills in the following areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science and Writing. As you can see, the emphasis is on verbal skills and your ability to draw conclusions, see implications, and apply facts. Students who are strong verbally and find they have difficulty with the math portion of standardized tests should consider the ACT. Also, if you find you have very strong SAT Subject Test scores, you may do well on the ACT. TESTING SCHEDULE Junior Year: You should register and take either the SAT or ACT test by the end of your junior year. You should discuss with your college counselor which dates and which tests are appropriate; you should not be sitting for all the exams listed below. Senior Year: You are responsible for registering for the tests. You should discuss with your college counselor which dates and which tests are appropriate. September 2015: Take or Retake ACT. October 2015: Retake SAT Reasoning, ACT or SAT Subject Tests, if necessary. November 2015: Retake SAT Reasoning or SAT Subject Tests, if necessary. December 2015: Retake SAT Reasoning, ACT or SAT Subject tests, if necessary. This is the last possible date for UCs. 6

7 January 2016: Retake SAT Reasoning or SAT Subject Tests, if necessary. This is last date for most private colleges. SENDING YOUR SCORES It is your responsibility to know which colleges require which tests and to request that your scores be sent from or to the colleges. Scores from standardized tests do NOT appear on your GHCHS transcript, so the only way that the colleges will receive them is if you send them. You can do this when you register for the test, when you take the test, or when you receive the scores. The College Board and the ACT allow you to select which sittings of the SAT and ACT you would like reported to which colleges. There will, however, be some colleges that require your entire testing history and you must submit all your SAT or ACT scores to them. The best time to order your test results sent to colleges is the last time you receive your scores. At that point your testing record will be complete. If you send scores to all your colleges after the November testing and then decide to test in December, you must re-submit your scores to all the colleges so that they will receive those December scores. Every year, otherwise qualified applicants are outright rejected, from UC schools and CSUN in particular, because those applicants have neglected to send their test results. You should keep careful records of which tests you have taken and where the scores have been sent. SPECIAL TEST PREPARATION PROGRAMS Many of you wonder if you should take special test preparation courses. If you think a course or individual tutoring might benefit you and if you are willing to devote time to extra study, you might find test preparation worth it. The courses vary widely in quality, so investigate before investing the money. For additional information on test preparation, visit the GHCHS Calendar and tab for Testing. ADVANCED PLACEMENT TESTS AP test results do not appear on your GHCHS transcript. For purposes of admission, you may simply self-report your scores on your application. There is no need to order official score reports during the admission process. For purposes of receiving actual college credit for AP results, the student must send the scores directly from Educational Testing Service to the college. This is done after you have been admitted to college. TESTING INFORMATION AT A GLANCE Name Purpose When Cost/Registratio n 4 year college admission ACT tudent.org/test prep/descriptio ns/ Throughout the year up to December of 12 th grade (recommen ded during 11 th grade) $56.50* (fee waivers are available in the college office for students on free/reduced lunch) *2015 Preparation -Free practice questions: -Practice books in College Office -Mock ACT exams on GHCHS campus & through various test prep companies -Princeton Review prep classes on GHCHS campus: 7

8 AP onals.collegebo ard.com/testing /ap/about IB Exams g/ SAT* geboard.org/ab out-tests *New SAT begins March SAT Subject Tests geboard.org/ab out-tests/satsubjecttests/why-takethe-test PSAT eadiness.colleg eboard.org/psat -nmsqt-psat-10 Gain college credit for classes taken in high school Gain college credit for classes taken in high school 4 year college admission 4 year college admission (especially important for challenging majors, i.e. engineering, and competitive schools) -Prepare you for the SAT -Qualify you for National Merit Scholarship -Help colleges identify you May every year May every year Throughout year up to Dec. of 12 th grade (recommen ded during 11 th grade) Throughout the year up to December of 12 th grade (recommen ded during 11 th grade) ollegeboard. org/register/ sat-subjecttest-dates At GHCHS, you will take this exam once every year (except 12 th ). ent.org/regist/ -$5 (free/reduced lunch) or $91+ -Purchase exam after Winter break at GHCHS Student Store. Varies en/become-an-ibschool/fees-andservices/assessm ent-fees-andservices/ $54. 50* (fee waivers available in the college office for students on free/reduced lunch) * oard.org/register $26.00+* (fee waivers available in the college office for students on free/reduced lunch) * oard.org/register/u s-services-fees -Free for GHCHS students -GHCHS administers the PSAT to you during school hours. Free practice questions: akingtheexam/preparing-for-exams -Mock AP exams through AP teachers and various test prep companies. Enroll in the IB program at GHCHS px?portalid= &pageid= Free practice questions*: e/sat-practice-questions -Practice books in College Office -Mock SAT exams on GHCHS campus & through various test prep companies -Princeton Review prep classes on GHCHS campus: *Practice questions do not apply to the newly redesigned SAT. -Free practice questions*: e/sat-subject-test-preparation -Practice books in College Office -Mock exams through various test prep companies Free practice questions: rd.org/psat-nmsqt-psat-10/practice 8

9 TESTS - Granada Hills Charter High School CEEB Code Number: SAT TIPS UC and CSUs will accept test scores from the December test date of senior year. Other colleges - check individual application deadlines. You can only take SAT Reasoning Test or SAT Subject Test - NOT BOTH - on any given test date. When signing up for a SAT II test date student may take up to 3 SAT Subject Tests on one test date. Students must order SAT test scores to be sent to each individual college they are applying through If the student is on the free/reduced lunch program, there is a waiver form for the test fees available in the College and Career Office. ACT TIPS UC requires ACT with Writing Students must order ACT test scores to be sent to each individual college they are applying to through There are fees to take the ACT tests. If the student is on the free/reduced lunch program, there is a waiver form for the test fees available in the College and Career office. FREQUENTLY ASKED SAT/ACT QUESTIONS When does the new SAT go into effect? The new SAT will start in March Students in the Class of 2016 and younger may be affected depending on when they decide to take the SAT. Keep in mind that the College Board will also change the PSAT to match the new SAT. What is the difference between the old SAT and the new SAT? Design differences: Content differences: What is a good SAT/ACT score? Whether or not your score is a good one depends on the school you are trying to get into. Go through your personal Naviance account to use College Supermatch to research the freshman profile of the school you are interested in. Should I take the SAT or the ACT? 9

10 Colleges will accept your highest scores from either exam. If your SAT or PSAT score is low, you might want to try the ACT to see if you scores jump significantly. You may also take a mock ACT or SAT exam to determine whether or not you like the format of a given exam. I am enrolled in an AP class, but I do not want to take the AP exam. Should I take the AP exam? The upside of a passing AP score generally outweighs the down side of a low score. Not taking the exam may also raise red flags for some schools. Remember, non-seniors may also retake the AP exam without being enrolled in the class during the following year. Will my college offer credit for my AP exam? Each school has a different policy on which AP exam scores. Check with your college. How many times should I take the SAT/ACT? As many times as you want. Generally, students scores go up after they take an exam for a second time given that they targeted their preparation. After the third time that a student takes an exam, many scores begin to plateau. We recommend that you take at least one mock exam followed by targeted studying before you take the actual exam. How does my SAT CR+M+W score compare to my ACT composite score? Must I report all of my SAT/ACT scores to colleges? Colleges generally request that you report all of your scores. Admissions officers use your highest score when reviewing your application. How are my scores viewed by various college systems? System Required Sections Highest Accepted Score UC Reading/Math/Writing single sitting CSU Reading/Math multiple sittings Private Reading/Math some require Writing Many schools Superscore (take highest score for each section from multiple exams) 10

11 APPLYING TO COMMUNITY COLLEGES CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (CCC) FAST FACTS 112 campuses The California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the nation, with 2.1 million students Workforce training, basic courses in English and math, certificate and degree programs and preparation for transfer to four-year institutions. Tuition $1,154 $18,299 (living on campus/not with parents) Admits 100% of California students BENEFITS OF CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGES IGETC-transfer programs to UCs & CSUs Transfer to private and out of state colleges Easy to apply-assessments-orientation Small classrooms, support programs, and honors program Transfer Alliance Program (TAP) UCLA Guarantees special consideration for UCLA admission Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) to CSUN and All UCs except UCLA, UCSD, &UCB 11

12 COMMUNITY COLLEGE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS California community colleges have no minimum requirements, but early registration for courses is strongly encouraged. Priority registration allows students to register early so they can add courses before the courses fill up. First, students must: (1) Participate in orientation (2) Complete the assessment process (3) Develop an Education Plan with a counselor or advisor Achieving and maintaining priority registration helps students add the courses they need to reach their goals, stay on track, and take the most direct route from start to finish. Find out more at stepforward.cccco.edu. CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS Apply up to all 112 campuses Application is free AVERAGE CCC TRANSFER RATES Pierce College Specific Information Rates%20Fall%2013.pdf CA statewide community colleges student success scorecard: 12

13 APPLYING TO THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY (CSU) CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OVERVIEW The twenty-three campuses of the Cal State System admit students primarily on the basis of grades and test scores (SAT or ACT). Neither an essay nor a teacher recommendation is required. You may apply to as many campuses within the system as you wish, submitting a separate application, fee, test score report and transcript to each campus to which you apply. While you may be eligible for admission to the Cal State system based on grades and test scores, particular campuses or majors may be more selective than others. Read the website carefully to determine if there are other requirements (audition, portfolio, etc.) for your program of interest. The California State University system accepts applications from October 1 through November 30, although in recent years, they have indicated that the earlier you submit your Cal State application, the better chance you have at the more selective campuses. The CSU application must be filed online and can be found at We will go over the CSU application step-by-step at CSU Application Workshops starting in September through mid-october. Please see College & Career Office Calendar of Events for workshop dates and times. CSU MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS You must earn a 2.0 UC/CSU GPA (10th, 11th & 12th grades calculated) in the "a-g" subjects AND take the SAT or ACT test The University uses an eligibility index *a combination of GPA and test scores To calculate your UC/CSU GPA, use the CSU GPA calculator To determine whether a course is an UC/CSU approved academic course use UCOP Doorways o Type in Granada Hills Charter High School o Click view course list A-G courses approved courses (use UCOP Doorways AG Course List) Weights (H/AP/IB) 8 additional points for approved courses For eligibility index: SAT/ACT (Reading & Math only)- Highest score from any combination 3.0 or higher qualifies regardless of SAT/ACT scores for campuses not impacted CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY APPLICATION PROCESS CSU s Apply to all 23 campuses Application timeline: Oct 1 Nov 30 Self-report Grades & test scores No essay required No activities listed *SLO unique 13

14 Application fee $55 (fee waivers up to 4 campuses on application and additional waivers may be available-please check with the college office) Step by step movie guide to the CSU Application: Step by step PowerPoint guide to the CSU Application CSU FAST FACTS Tuition $6,544 $22,105 (living on campus) Admits 73% of California students 14

15 APPLYING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA (UC) UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SYSTEM OVERVIEW The nine undergraduate campuses of the UC System admit students on the basis of grades, test scores (SAT Reasoning or ACT with Writing), curriculum, and subjective factors. Applicants are asked to submit two essays and to list their honors, awards, extracurricular activities, and employment. These subjective factors have become increasingly important in the UC admissions process, although grades, test scores and curriculum are still weighed more heavily. You may apply to as many campuses within the system as you wish. You will submit one application online indicating the campus or campuses at which you wish to be considered. While you may be eligible for admission to a UC campus, you are not guaranteed a spot at the campus of your choice. Admission standards for the Berkeley, Los Angeles and San Diego campuses are more rigorous than for the others. The filing period for the University of California is November 1 through 30. The UC application must be filed online and can be found at We will go over the UC application step-bystep at UC Application Workshops starting in September through mid-october. Please see College & Career Office Calendar of Events for workshop dates and times UC FAST FACTS 9 Undergrad campuses Research institutions Tuition $13,300 $33,100 (living on campus)* Admit 12.5% of California students *Link Video: UC MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS At least 3.0 UC/CSU GPA A-G Requirement o (11 courses finished prior to the beginning of your senior year.) SAT or ACT with Writing o Highest score from one test SAT Subject tests are suggested for some majors 10 th and 11 th grade classes To calculate your UC/CSU GPA, use the CSU GPA calculator A-G courses approved courses (use UCOP Doorways AG Course List) To determine whether a course is an UC/CSU approved academic course use UCOP Doorways 1. Type in Granada Hills Charter High School 2. Click view course list Weights (H/AP/HL IB) 8 additional points for approved courses 15

16 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA APPLICATION PROCESS Apply to all 9 campuses Application submission Nov th Application available Aug. 1 Application fee $70 (fee waivers up to 4 campuses on application and additional waivers may be available-please check with the college office) Self-report Grades & test scores Extra-curricular activities Comprehensive review process UC s look beyond grades and test scores Evaluate academic achievements in light of the opportunities available and demonstrated capacity to contribute to the intellectual life at a UC. 2 Personal statements Prompts Describe the world you come from for example, your family, community or school and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations. Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are? Video: For help on starting your personal statement: Step by Step guide for completing UC application 16

17 2014 UC FRESHMAN APPLICATION DATA ON CA RESIDENTS UC ELIGIBILITY IN LOCAL CONTEXT Guarantee admissions for top 9% of participating California high schools graduating class throughout the state ELC will not guarantee admission to your first choice school (unless it's UC Merced), but will be considered "added value" to your application. Top 9% students will be notified when they complete their applications. Some students in the top 15% of their high school will receive a letter from UC stating they are "the top 15% of their class and we encourage you to apply. TIPS FOR THE UC APPLICATION The application that you fill out is one of the means through which your character and personality can emerge to the reader, and it is the one part of the application over which you have real control. Doing a careful, thoughtful job on your application can make all the difference. College admissions officers continue to comment on how a shabby application killed someone's chances or how a thoughtful, well-presented application pushed a borderline candidate into the admitted group. Consider the time constraints of your audience. During the "reading period," admissions officers may have a daily quota of at least thirty files. Given the twenty-four hour day and simple mathematics, you can figure that each file is generally given about twenty minutes. You have twenty minutes to make a memorable impression! Don t pad your application. Let your accomplishments speak for themselves, leaving out trivial activities or long-neglected interests. Playing the violin in the 8th grade means little if you have not picked it up since then. If you list a lot of extraneous activities and neither your teachers nor the 17

18 school recommendation mentions them as significant, the college will know that you re padding. It is better to concentrate on a few quality pursuits than to manufacture quantity. Answer the questions they ask. In your eagerness to write about what you want to write about, don't ignore the question. Be yourself. You can drive yourself crazy trying to figure out what you think a college wants to hear. There's seldom a right or wrong answer to a question on an application. All the committee wants is a clear, honest, and thoughtful answer that will tell them something about you as a person. Give yourself plenty of time. Last-minute jobs usually look and sound like last-minute jobs. For most schools, particularly private colleges and universities, there are a set of items that are required for your application. These are the items that most colleges use to evaluate your application and make an admission decision. The important thing to understand about each section of the application is that there is a reason you are being asked for this information, which is to glean as much as they can about you and your potential for success at their institution. 18

19 APPLYING TO PRIVATE COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES AND OUT OF STATE PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES APPLICATION FORMS Many of the private colleges/universities use the Common Application, which is available at If you are applying to any of the Common Application colleges, you simply complete the Common Application online, where you send the same application to as many colleges as you like (with a separate fee for each school). Many schools on the Common Application have supplements, which may involve additional essays or short answer questions. If a college you are applying to is not on the Common Application (this includes many public universities, as well as private schools like MIT and Georgetown), you should visit the website of that individual college to fill out the application. The first few sections of the application request identifying information, such as name, address, phone number, and high school. Although this information is partially used for practical purposes, it is also used during the review process to understand your particular circumstances. Knowing where you live, what high school you go to and whether or not your parents have attended college can provide context to your application. HIGH SCHOOL DOCUMENTS SENT FROM COUNSELOR There are five items sent from the counselor whom you have confirmed will write your letter of recommendation: an official transcript, a letter of recommendation, a school profile, the Secondary School Report form (SSR) and a mid-year report. Information on how and when to request that these items are sent to colleges will be provided in the fall of the senior year. Please note: standardized test scores (SATs, ACTs, APs, SAT Subject Tests) are NOT sent by GHCHS. TRANSCRIPT The transcript is the single most important item in the admissions folder. On it are your course grades from ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades. Your first semester senior year grades are extremely important. Progress reports from the first semester of the senior year are only sent if requested by a college or university. Schools will occasionally ask for this information for early action or early decision applicants. LETTER OF RECOMMENDATIONS Private colleges and some out-of-state universities require a written recommendation from either your current academic guidance counselor or your college counselor. Students must complete the "Counselor Recommendation Packet" by October 1. If you are applying for Questbridge, Early Action, or Early Decision, you must notify your academic guidance counselor or college counselor three weeks prior to the deadline. Use your Naviance account to access and upload your teacher and counselor letter of recommendation packets. You will not have access to this letter, as colleges will lend more credibility to letters to which you have waived your access. HIGH SCHOOL PROFILE 19

20 The school profile includes information about the curriculum, grading policies, school accreditation and history, demographic of student population, and college matriculation data. This document is sent to colleges with the Secondary School Report. SECONDARY SCHOOL REPORT The Secondary School Report form requests information about the student in the context of GHCHS. Specifically, colleges and universities ask about the rigor of the student s curriculum as compared to other students at GHCHS. MID-YEAR REPORT By February, when first semester grades become available, the College and Career Office automatically sends the Mid-Year Report form with your first semester grades. You do not need to provide the individual school forms to us. If there are any changes to your application, such as dropping a course originally listed on your application for either the fall or spring semester, you will need to notify the counselor who wrote your letter of recommendation as the change will need to be noted on the Mid-Year Report. THE PERSONAL STATEMENT (ESSAY) Like the application form, the essay (or essays, in some cases) provides you with an opportunity to convey information about yourself that goes beyond objective data. Above all, the essay should be well written and carefully edited, and you must keep it within the prescribed length. (If no length is prescribed, aim for no more than one single-spaced, typed page.) ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR WRITING YOUR PERSONAL STATEMENT Consider your audience. Admissions officers reading two dozen applications a night do not want to read five pages of high school economic theory or a rehashed debate topic. They want to read something short, lively, and graceful that will tell them about you as a person. You should write about something that is important to you. The presentation of yourself through the essay is a key component in shaping an admission officer s impression of you as a candidate. Unless the college specifically asks for it, avoid the general autobiographical essay. Most application essay topics are fairly broad and open-ended, but if the question is quite specific, be sure you answer it. Most importantly, be true to yourself. Don t think too much about what it is you think the admission officers want to hear. Focus on what you want to convey and how to say it. Let your voice come through. Where people commonly falter is approaching this as an academic exercise. The college application essay is usually the first time that you are asked to think about your life experiences and write an essay for total strangers to read. Don't use the essay to apologize for some perceived failing on your part. On the other hand, if there have been unusual circumstances in your life, the essay might be a good chance to explain them without making excuses. Try to avoid much-used topics (unless they are addressed in a unique way). Examples of this are: Outward Bound experiences, trips to Israel, how sports build character, etc.; but don't go overboard in your attempts to be original or memorable or profound. Nothing is worse than 20

21 attempted humor that isn't funny or stream-of-consciousness writing that ends up sounding like gibberish. Avoid anything that smacks of weirdness, cuteness, or elitism. Think of the essay as an opportunity to add a new dimension to your folder. Avoid repeating facts, figures, or activities that have been mentioned previously in the application, unless they have a particular bearing on the development of your character. Get feedback on your finished product. Have a teacher, counselor, parent, friend, or neighbor read and critique your essay for its form and content. What does your essay communicate about your character and personality? Is the voice natural and unaffected? It should sound like it was written by you and only you. Attend the College and Career essay writing workshops. During the summer of junior year, the College and Career Office will present essay-writing sessions that will further clarify what is expected in the private college and UC essay. Additionally, seniors should attend essay writing workshops in the fall from the college and career office. For a free online guide on writing your college essay, try TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS Most private, selective colleges require one or two recommendations from teachers. Ideally, you should ask teachers from eleventh grade who have taught you in an academic subject. These teachers have witnessed your progress over a full year. Sophomore and senior teachers may be used in some cases. The teacher who gave you the highest grade may not be the one who is likely to write you the best recommendation; it is more important that the teacher knows you well. Once you have decided whom you would like to write your recommendations, ask him/her by the October 1st deadline. Faculty need not honor requests made after that date. Students will need to complete a Teacher Letter of Recommendation Packet, which is located in your Naviance account. Follow these guidelines: You must ask in person. The faculty will not want to write recommendations for students who simply leave notes on their desks or s them. Also, it is in most cases best to ask them privately after class rather than in the lunch area or in a classroom full of students. Remember that a teacher is under no obligation to write for you and may feel that he or she cannot honor your request. Ask the same two teachers to write all of your recommendations. Once the teachers have written your letter, they will upload you recommendation to the Common Application or other applicable website. Some colleges and/or special programs may require or encourage teacher recommendations from specific subject areas, which may mean asking a third teacher if neither of the teachers you initially asked were from that discipline. For example, if you are applying to some art programs, you may use letters from two traditional academic subject teachers and then ask an art teacher to write a third letter to be sent to the schools where you are applying as an art major. FERPA: Always waive your access to a letter of recommendation. GHCHS will not submit letters of recommendation unless a student waives their right to access. Students do so by 21

22 signing the electronic waiver form on the Common Application or whenever asked. We have this policy in place because our letters of recommendation do not have credibility with the colleges unless students waive their right of access. Thank your teachers! And keep them apprised of your final decision. Recommendation writing is a time-consuming task; often the only pay-off for teachers is your warm, genuine appreciation. Also, let your teachers and counselors know during the spring where you were accepted because they are interested in your future. 22

23 Attending College Out of State WESTERN UNDERGRADUATE EXCHANGE (WUE) PROGRAM If you are open to attending college out of state, start with checking to see if your program qualifies for a tuition discount through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program Students who are residents of select states are eligible to request a reduced tuition rate of 150% of resident tuition at participating two- and four-year college programs outside of their home state. WUE ELIGIBLE STATES Alaska Arizona California Colorado Hawaii Idaho Montana Nevada New Mexico North Dakota Oregon South Dakota Utah Washington Wyoming Here is an example what the savings might look like for you: The tuition you pay depends on the resident tuition at each school. WUE ELIGIBLE SCHOOL LIST WUE ELIGIBLE MAJORS BY SCHOOL 23

24 FINANCIAL AID FINANCIAL AID OVERVIEW Financial aid programs provide support for students to help meet the costs of obtaining a college education. Financial aid is money to help pay for college or career school. Aid can come from: U.S. federal government state where you live college you attend nonprofit or private organization Financial aid is split up into two categories based on the reason the money is awarded: Merit-Achievement-based aid is awarded to students who have a special characteristic, skill, talent, or ability. Typically achievement-based aid is in the form of scholarships. Need-based aid is provided to students who demonstrate financial need. Most financial aid, particularly public-funded aid, is awarded on the basis of financial need determined through the application process and in accordance with a prescribed federal formula. 4 Basic Types of Financial Aid Programs Available Grants Federal or state gift assistance with no obligation for work or repayment Scholarships Gift assistance with no obligation for work or repayment Loans Providing funds now, but with a future repayment obligation Work-Study Part-time work while attending the institution Most often, financial aid will come to you in the form of a package consisting of a combination of the different types of aid available. The combination of aid offered depends on the availability of funds, your eligibility, the timeliness with which the application process is completed, and your year in school. AID AND OTHER RESOURCES FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT Federal student aid includes: 24

25 GRANTS financial aid that doesn t have to be repaid. Grants can come from the federal government, your state government, your college or career school. Grants and scholarships are often called gift aid because they are free money financial aid that doesn t have to be repaid. Grants are often need-based, while scholarships are usually meritbased. Grants and scholarships can come from the federal government, your state government, your college or career school, or a private or nonprofit organization. Do your research, apply for any grants or scholarships you might be eligible for, and be sure to meet application deadlines! For additional information watch the following video to learn about grants, loans, and work-study jobs and how they can help fund your education. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GRANTS Up to $5,645 for Your cost of attendance and expected family contribution Whether attending full or part-time Must not already have a bachelor s degree. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) From $100 to $4,000 a year (funds are limited) based on: o cost of attendance for your school o expected family contribution o whether you are attending full- or part-time Priority given to Pell Grant recipients with the lowest expected family contributions Visit Federal Teacher Grants Up to $4,000 a year Be enrolled in, or plan to complete, coursework to begin a teaching career Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 Sign agreement to serve as a paid full-time teacher in a high-need field serving low-income students Agree to teach at least 4 academic years within 8 years of completing your program of study If you fail to complete your obligation, the grant converts to an unsubsidized Stafford loan you must repay with interest. 25

26 Visit or contact the financial aid office at the college or university you plan to attend. Child Development Grant $1,000 a year (California community college) o $2,000 a year (four-year college) o up to $6,000 total Must purse a child development permit and plan to work at a licensed children s center in CA Must sign a Service Commitment Agreement to teach or supervise in a CA Licensed child care facility Requires a Child Development Grant application Visit choose Financial Aid Programs Law Enforcement Personnel Dependents Grant Up to $13,665 a year Dependent or spouse of a CA peace officer, firefighter, or certain other law enforcement employee who died or became 100% disabled in the line of duty Requires a Law Enforcement Personnel Dependents Grant application. Visit and choose Financial Aid Programs How do I qualify for a federal grant? Almost all of our grants (listed above) are awarded to students with financial need. If you are interested in a grants, or in any federal student aid, you have to start by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) How much money do I qualify for? For the award year (July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016) the maximum award is $5,775. The amount you receive, will depend on your: financial need cost of attendance status as a full-time or part-time student plans to attend school for a full academic year or less You may not receive Federal Pell Grant funds from more than one school at a time. Effective July 1, 2012, you may receive the Federal Pell Grant for no more than 12 semesters or the equivalent (roughly six years). You ll receive a notice if you are close to your limit. If you have any questions, contact your financial aid office. If you re eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, you will receive the full amount you qualify for each school participating in the program receives enough funds each year from the U.S. Department of Education to pay the Federal Pell Grant amounts for all its eligible students. The amount of any other student aid 26

27 for which you might qualify does not affect the amount of your Federal Pell Grant. Use FAFSA4caster: for an estimate of how much federal aid you might receive from the U.S. Department of Education. CALIFORNIA STATE GRANT (CAL GRANTS) DEADLINE: JANUARY 1 MARCH 2 Cal Grants are FREE cash for college in California - up to $12,192* annually for up to four years of assistance with tuition and system-wide fees. You will receive a Cal Grand if you meet the eligibility standards and earn at least a 2.0 GPA (calculated using the Cal Grant formula)! CAL GRANT A 3.0 high school GPA required $12,192 at University of California $5,472 at California State University $9,048 at qualifying private California colleges $4,000 at non-wasc accredited for-profit institutions If you attend a California community college, your grant is held in reserve until transfer. CAL GRANT B 2.0 high school GPA required $1,648 living allowance for your first year, plus tuition and fee award beyond first year in the same amounts as Cal Grant A CAL GRANT C $547 for books, tools, and equipment for a technical or career education $2,462 for tuition (if not attending a California community college) CAL GRANT ELIGIBILITY Students who are California residents, graduate from a California high school, and pass the California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) or earn a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Students have one year after high school to apply for a guaranteed Cal Grant. Once an eligible student receives a Cal Grant award, the Cal Grant can be received for four years, but students must reapply each year to qualify. Go online and complete the FAFSA or California Dream Application (CADA) between January 1 and March 2 of your senior year in high school or within one year after graduation or receipt of your GED. A school verified Grade Point Average (GPA) form completes a Cal Grant application. In-person help is available for FAFSA or CADA applicants at local Cash for College Workshops throughout California in January and February. For dates and locations, visit www. californiacashforcollege.org To be eligible for and receive payment for any Cal Grant award, a student must meet the following requirements: Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen Be a California resident 27

28 Attend a Cal Grant participating California college or university Demonstrate financial need at his or her college Have family income and assets below the ceilings Have met U.S. Selective Service requirements Be in a program leading to an undergraduate degree, certificate, or first professional degree Not have a bachelor s or professional degree before receiving a Cal Grant (except for extended Cal Grant A or B awards, teaching credential programs or Cal Grant T) Have a valid Social Security number Maintain satisfactory academic progress Not owe a refund on any state or federal educational grant Not be in default on any student loan Not be incarcerated CALIFORNIA GRANTS (VARIOUS) University Of California Grant (UC) Nearly two-thirds of all undergraduate students receive UC grant and scholarship aid, with an average award of about $14,000 Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) Deadline: January 1 March 2 Provides up to 40% off of tuition based on a sliding scale at UC and CSU campuses for families earning under $150,000 that do not qualify for other financial aid programs. All students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at or California Dream Act Application (CADA) at The Middle Class Scholarship will supplement students current financial aid packages and students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). California Community Colleges Board of Governors (BOG) This is a fee waiver for eligible California residents, the Board of Governors (BOG) Fee Waiver permits enrollment fees to California community colleges to be waived. Assistance for the purchase of books and supplies must be applied for separately. Most California community colleges offer online BOG Fee Waiver applications through or icanaffordcollege.com. Full-time or part-time community college students who qualify for the BOG Fee Waiver and meet other eligibility requirements will likely qualify for federal, state, campus, and private financial aid awards. These students should complete the FAFSA so eligibility for these programs can be determined. Chafee Grant For Foster Children Students that are or were in foster care and have financial need may qualify for up to $5,000 a year for career and technical training or college. The Chafee Grant may be used at any eligible 28

29 California college or university or career or technical school, as well as schools in other states. To qualify for a Chafee Grant, a student must be a current or former foster youth and not have reached his or her 22nd birthday as of July 1 of the award year. SCHOLARSHIPS OVERVIEW There are thousands of scholarships of varying amounts that do not need to be repaid which are offered by: schools, employers, individuals, private companies, nonprofits, communities, religious groups, and professional and social organizations. Some scholarships for college are merit-based. You earn them by meeting or exceeding certain standards set by the scholarship-giver. Merit scholarships might be awarded based on academic achievement or on a combination of academics and a special talent, trait, or interest. Other scholarships are based on financial need. Many scholarships are geared toward particular groups of people; for instance, there are scholarships for women or high school seniors. And some are available because of where you or your parents work, or because you come from a certain background. How do I find scholarships? You can learn about scholarships in several ways, including contacting the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend and checking information in a public library or online. But be careful. Make sure scholarship information and offers you receive are legitimate; and remember that you don't have to pay to find scholarships or other financial aid. Try these free sources of information about scholarships: the financial aid office at a college or career school you are applying to Naviance National Scholarship Search library reference section foundations, religious or community organizations, local businesses, or civic groups organizations (including professional associations) related to your field of interest ethnicity-based organizations your employer or your parents employers SCHOLARSHIPS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS When do I apply for scholarships? Each scholarship s deadline varies. Some deadlines are as early as a year before college starts, so if you re in high school now, you should research and apply for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior years. But if you ve missed that window, don t give up! Look at scholarship information to see which ones you can still apply for now. How do I apply for scholarships? Each scholarship has its own requirements. The scholarship s website should give you an idea of who qualifies for the scholarship and how to apply. Make sure you read the application carefully, fill it out completely, and meet the application deadline. How do I receive my scholarship money? 29