AMERY HIGH SCHOOL. Grade 12: Post-High School Planning Guide. A publication of the AHS Guidance Department. (Updated 6/2014)

Transcription

1 AMERY HIGH SCHOOL Grade 12: Post-High School Planning Guide A publication of the AHS Guidance Department (Updated 6/2014)

2 INTRODUCTION Making decisions regarding you, or your child s future education and employment, is not an easy task. With thousands of careers, educational institutions, work-force opportunities, and military options to choose from, the decision process can become complex. This post-secondary planning packet is designed to help students and their parents navigate through all of the various career and educational paths students may take. Numerous valuable resources are included in this packet such as: military careers and contact information, career assessment testing, college contact information, employment contacts, and online resources. Students and parents are strongly encouraged to set aside time to explore these useful resources. In order for students to make thoughtful decisions regarding their future, they need to invest time researching their options. Reading valuable print materials and researching online, about various post-secondary institutions and careers is an excellent way to start the process of future career planning. However, students are strongly encouraged to not only read about and research various careers, employment opportunities, and institutions, but to also actually experience, in person, careers and institutions they are interested in pursuing. Visiting campuses for tours, overnight visits, or classroom observations, are great methods for students to experience post-secondary institutions. In addition, most colleges now offer Facebook and Twitter pages, student blogs, and online chat opportunities. Students may also find job shadowing as an excellent tool in learning about a career. If a student is interested in pursuing employment immediately after high school, they should contact local county job agencies, and search print and online want ads. Those students interested in military options should speak with military recruiters about the numerous career options and benefits available from the various military branches. Overall, remember that the school guidance counselors are excellent resources, and all students are encouraged to stop in the guidance office with any questions they might have regarding post-secondary education, employment opportunities, and military careers. We hope that you, the students and parents, find this packet useful in your post-secondary planning. Karen Ganje and Yvonne Kurtzhals Amery High School Guidance Counselors 2

3 Table of Contents Career Searching: Online Computer Resources Page 4 WISCareers Page 5 Applying to Post-Secondary Institutions Admissions Testing, AP & CLEP Exams Pages 6-8 Applications Page 9 Letters of Recommendation & Early Admission Page 10 Letter of Recommendation Form Page Writing College Admission Essays Page 13 Admission Requirements at Wisconsin Institutions Page 14 Admission Requirements at Minnesota Institutions Page 15 Types of Post-Secondary Institutions in Wisconsin Types of Colleges Page 16 Differences among Colleges Page 17 University of Wisconsin System Page 18 University of Wisconsin-Madison Page Wisconsin Technical Colleges Page 22 WITC-Local Technical Colleges Page 23 Wisconsin Private Colleges Page 24 Wisconsin Private Vocational/Technical Schools & Colleges Page Types of Post-Secondary Institutions in the Midwest Minnesota & North Dakota Colleges/Universities Page 28 University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Page 29 Minnesota Private Vocational/Technical Schools & Colleges Page 30 Minnesota Private Colleges Page 31 Iowa Colleges & Universities Page 32 What To Do On A College Visit Form Page 33 Attending a Post-Secondary School Checklist Page 34 NCAA (National Clearing House Athletic Association) Page 35 The Financial Aid Process Financial Aid/Reciprocity/Grants/Loans Pages Military Career Opportunities Military Options & Benefits Page Miscellaneous Military Information & Service Academies Page Military Checklist Page 46 Work Opportunities Job Search: Applications and Interviews Pages Employment Page 50 Apprenticeship Opportunities Page 51 Entering the Workforce Checklist Page 52 Organizing Tips for the Senior Student Page 53 Quick Website Resources Reference Page Page 54 3

4 Online Computer Resources Career Search The Internet is one of the most valuable career research tools available to students today. Not only is information readily accessible at a rapid speed, but also online information is usually the most accurate and up-to-date information available. However, Internet users should beware of websites that charge users for career testing and resources. All of the websites and resources listed below are free of charge, and we strongly recommend students and their parents take advantage of free online resources. Below you will find various career web addresses along with a brief explanation of each website. The U.S. Department of Labor: Occupational Outlook Handbook Web address: This web address will directly take users to an A-Z job occupation search. The user should have an idea of a career they would like to research when using this website. Example, I am interested in researching the career of a reporter. I select the letter R for reporter, and then a list of R careers is viewable on the screen. Once I find the word reporter on the screen I select the career, and then the following information regarding the career is reported: nature of the work, working conditions, employment, training required, job outlook, earnings, related occupations, and sources of additional information. This website is of extremely high quality, and is strongly recommended by the guidance department. The Occupational Information Network Online Web address: This website was created and is maintained by The U.S. Department of Labor, and is also highly recommended by the guidance department as a high quality website. This website will allow users to research careers using various tools, and it also provides a free career skills test. In addition to career assessments, the website also links users with relevant career-related articles such as articles on the fastest growing occupations. JobStar Career Guides Web address: On this website users will not only find resources aimed at discovering careers, but it also provides users with excellent resume examples. Another unique aspect of this website is the age-appropriate career guides that users can explore. There are also numerous links on this website that will lead users to other valuable career websites. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Web address: The (DWD) is a state agency charged with building and strengthening Wisconsin's workforce in the 21st century and beyond. The Department's primary responsibilities include providing job services, training and employment assistance to people looking for work, at the same time as it works with employers on finding the necessary workers to fill current job openings. It also provides valuable statistics about future job trends and employment. 4

5 Login to Your Future at WISCareers WISCareers is an interactive self-assessment tool that will help you learn more about yourself and your career goals and options. Some of the highlights of this extremely valuable website include: 700+ Occupations: You will find occupations to match your interests, skills, values, or budget from a database of over 700 occupations. You will also find salary information, employment outlook, and education path for the occupations you find most interesting/suitable Post-secondary Schools: You may conduct a college/vocational training school search to match your interests and needs from a database of over 4,000 educational institutions nationwide. School information is directly linked to college home pages, campus maps, and online college applications. Take virtual tours of colleges, find admission requirements, learn about college sports and activities, etc. Budget Program: You can build a budget based on your individual needs and financial resources. In addition, WISCareers includes several resources to help you apply for financial aid. Job Seeking Tools: Tools are available to help you create a resume and career portfolio as well as access information about Wisconsin employers and their current job listings. Use on any Internet-ready computer: With personal passwords and the ability to save information, you can also look at the WISCareers site at home with your parents, at the library, etc. Use on any Internet-ready computer allows you to look at the WISCareers site at home with your parents, at school, etc. The WISCareers site can be accessed through the Internet at This website is accessible to students in grades 9-12 all year, even over the summer. You must have a registration code in order to log onto this website. Please see your school counselor for your login code. If you created a login name and password during a previous school year and have forgotten that login name and password, the Guidance Office can obtain that information for you. Create Your WISCareers Account Today 5

6 APPLYING TO POST-SECONDARY SECONDARY INSTITUTIONS Admissions Testing Purpose of Testing: Most two and four-year colleges, and some technical schools, require some form of admission testing. Your scores, along with your high school grades and other achievements, are used in the admissions decision. Make sure to check with the institutions to which you are applying to see which tests are necessary. Juniors planning to attend college should take the ACT or SAT tests in the spring of their junior year. To meet admission deadlines, seniors who have not taken the ACT or SAT tests should do so on the first possible fall date. 1. AMERICAN COLLEGE TEST (ACT): The ACT is a college entrance exam which is considered in the admissions process of all Wisconsin and most Midwestern 4-year colleges. Consult specific colleges/universities to verify which entrance exam they prefer. ACT scores are also used to determine NCAA eligibility. The ACT is constructed to assess general educational development and ability to do college level work. The ACT consists of a battery of four academic tests covering subject matter in the areas of English, mathematics, reading and science reasoning. The four sub tests include: English: Usage/Mechanics and Rhetorical Skills Mathematics: Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry Reading -Social Studies/Sciences and Arts/Literature Science Reasoning: Data representation, Research Summaries, Conflicting Viewpoints ACT offers an optional writing component to the ACT exam. The ACT Writing Test complements the English Test. The combined information from both tests tells postsecondary institutions about students' understanding of the conventions of standard written English and their ability to produce a direct sample of writing. Some colleges/universities are requiring the writing portion of the ACT as part of the admission process. Some institutions in our area that are requiring the writing portion are: UW-Madison, UM-Twin Cities, UM-Crookston, UM-Morris and Carleton. To find out whether or not the college you wish to attend requires the writing portion visit the ACT website at 2. COLLEGE BOARDS (CEEB'S): Many private colleges, particularly in the Eastern part of the country, require these tests. Tests include the SAT-I (Scholastic Aptitude Test), Test of Standard Written English (TSWE), SAT-II Subject Tests (formerly Achievement Tests), and English Composition Test with Essay (ECT). SAT I: A 2½-hour multiple-choice test composed of verbal and mathematical questions. College board added a mandatory writing component to the SAT I and also made some other changes to the exam including: analogies eliminated, shorter reading passages added, new content from third-year college preparatory math, and quantitative comparisons eliminated. TSWE: Thirty-minute test, which measures how well you understand and interpret what you read and the extent of your vocabulary. This test evaluates your ability to recognize the use of language essential to a finished piece of writing. SAT II: Each test is a one-hour multiple-choice test made up of questions that measure subjects appropriate for your major. SAT II Subject Tests: Subject tests are in the areas of: English, history and social studies, mathematics, science (biology, chemistry, and physics.) 6

7 Test Registration: Register online at for the ACT or for the SAT I & II. Since you must submit your registration well in advance, make sure that you are aware of the specific testing deadlines. Online registration is the preferred method of registration, if you cannot register online see your school counselor for other options. Test Preparation: Students may check out numerous resources in the guidance office that relate to preparing for college testing, including the ACT, SAT, PSAT and SAT II subject tests. The materials in the guidance office range from comprehensive test preparation manuals to books that focus on only one area of the ACT, such as English. In addition to print materials there are free and purchasable prep items on the student ACT website. Admissions Test Dates Schedule for ACT and SAT-I and SAT-II Tests: Our high school code number is , which must be used on each test application. ACT Test Dates Registration Deadline Late Fee Registration Dates September 13, 2014 August 8, 2014 August 9 22, 2014 October 25, 2014 September 19, 2014 September 20 October 3, 2014 December 13, 2014 November 7, 2014 November 8 21, 2014 February 7, 2015* January 9, 2015 January 10 16, 2015 April 18, 2015 March 13, 2015 March 14 27, 2015 June 13, 2015 May 8, 2015 May 9 22, 2015 SAT Anticipated Tests Dates-Not final as of 06/2014 October 11, November 8, December 6,7,-2014 January 24, March 14, May 2, June 6, SAT TEST Some colleges may prefer the SAT or a combination of the SAT and SAT II or ACT and SAT II tests. Students are responsible for checking individual school admissions requirements. If students are unsure of the required test for their selected college, they should check the college catalogs in the Guidance Office or check the specific website of the college/university in question to see what test(s) is required. In addition, some college/universities also require students to complete subject tests, these are known as SAT II tests. Particularly schools located on the East Coast, such as Stanford or Harvard, require these exams. Log onto for more information about test dates and these exams. Your son/daughter needs to pay attention to test dates, registration deadlines, and individual post-secondary institutions admission deadlines. Please plan ahead so you don t miss any important deadlines. Test Fees: The current registration fee for the ACT only is $ The total fee for the ACT with the optional writing test is $ Fee for SAT-I is $51.00 and SAT II subject tests are $24.50 and up. Students are encouraged to simply complete registration materials online as that is the preferred method. 7

8 AP Exams & CLEP Exams: What are They? About AP: Through AP Exams, you have the opportunity to earn credit or advanced standing at most of the nation's colleges and universities. This is an opportunity you have as a high school student. AP exams are provided onsite at Amery High School; however, students are responsible for the cost of the exams. Exams usually take place in the late spring, typically May of the given school year. The Amery High School AP exam coordinator is Shawn Doerfler, Principal. Why Participate?: With 37 courses and exams across 22 subject areas, AP offers something for everyone. The only requirements are a strong curiosity about the subject you plan to study and the willingness to work hard. Here are just a few reasons to sign up for AP exams: Gain the edge in college preparation Get a head start on college-level work. Develop the study habits necessary for tackling rigorous course work. Stand out in the college admissions process Study subjects in greater depth and detail. About CLEP: Shorten your path to a college degree with CLEP! The College-Level Examination Program or CLEP provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement through a program of exams in undergraduate college courses. There are 2,900 colleges that grant credit and/or advanced standing for CLEP exams. CLEP exams are not offered at Amery High School, students should take CLEP exams at the college they will be attending after graduation. As not all colleges accept CLEP credit, you should check with the college or university you plan to attend for complete details. Why take CLEP exams?: By taking one or more CLEP exams in your strong subjects, you will Save time. Depending on your college's CLEP policy, a satisfactory score on a CLEP exam can earn you from 3 to 12 college credits. Save money. The cost of a CLEP exam is $80, a fraction of the tuition and fees for the corresponding course. Make college more interesting. Skip general introductory courses and move on to more advanced classes, or explore new and challenging academic areas. Graduate on time. CLEP can help you to the finish line if you're a few credits shy of graduation. Satisfy a proficiency requirement. Demonstrate your ability in college math or a foreign language. Find out if your college accepts CLEP. Use the CLEP college search and talk to your admissions office, test center, or academic advisor. For more information about AP exams and CLEP exams, visit As always, be certain to check with the college you plan to attend to find out if they accept AP and CLEP exam credits, and also how those credits are accepted. Acceptance of Advanced Placement Examinations in the UW System Board of Regent policy requires all UW System institutions to grant credit for scores of 3 and above on all College Board Advanced Placement examinations. Each individual UW campus has the right to determine in what way your AP credits will be applied. For an up to date list of how your AP exam credits will transfer to any UW school please visit this link and then click on the name of the UW campus you plan to attend. Acceptance of Advanced Placement Examinations In the University of Minnesota System If you have scored a three or higher, you can earn credits at the University of Minnesota. Furthermore, you can use your Advanced Placement exams to fulfill liberal education requirements at the University of Minnesota. Liberal education requirements are courses or categories of courses that all college students must complete for graduation from the U of M. For an up to date list of how your AP exam credits will transfer to the University of Minnesota system visit the following link 8

9 Applications Many colleges have early deadlines so it is suggested that you begin applying to the schools of your choice early in your senior year. (i.e.: The University of Minnesota has a December 15 priority deadline. UW Stout s graphic design program, and UW-River Fall s elementary education program and animal science program, also fill very quickly.) In many colleges, registration for classes may be determined by your application date. Also, most colleges will not consider you for financial aid until you have applied and been accepted to their school. Early application may also mean better housing, i.e., a place in the dorm. Most colleges want you to apply online, or print a paper version off their website if you prefer a paper application. When students apply online they are expected to either pay their application fee online with a credit/debit card, or mail in a check or money order to the college if you prefer to not pay online, never send cash! You can apply to any UW school by going to Once you apply online, stop in the Guidance Office to request a copy of your transcript by completing a transcript request form. The transcript(s) will be provided to you in a sealed envelope so you may mail it to the college of your choosing. SUMMARY of the School/College Application Process A. Do the groundwork. Review catalogs, write for information, visit campuses, attend college fairs, visit campus websites and visit with representatives who come to the high school. B. Take the appropriate admissions tests (ACT, SAT I, SAT II, etc.) C. Decide where you wish to apply. D. Make sure that you meet the admission requirements for the program you want. E. Complete your application online, or complete a paper application and mail it to the admissions office of the college where you are applying. A transcript (copy of your school record) will be printed and placed in a sealed envelope for you to mail. You will be responsible to mail your transcript/fee/letters of recommendation/or any other supplemental materials. F. Decide on your housing needs-dorm, apartment or home. G. Submit the FAFSA as required. January 1st (of the year you will start college) is the earliest possible filing date! The previous year's tax information is required to complete the form. H. Apply to the institution for financial aid. Special forms may be required. Forms are available from Financial Aid Office at the college to which you apply. The institution may also request copies of all parent/student tax forms. I. Apply for local scholarships and other financial aid. J. Confirm your admission and housing by sending in any required deposit. K. Make an appointment with the institution's Financial Aid Office, if necessary. L. Attend orientation sessions, if offered. M. Register for classes. Some universities, particularly private institutions, use an application called the common application. Approximately 241 colleges and universities use this application; schools such as Boston University, Marquette or Gustavus Adolphus. Log on to for an application and list of colleges and universities that accept this application. 9

10 What Is Early Admission, and Is It Right For Me? Early Admission is designed for the student who has determined that a specific college is his/her first choice and that student is willing to await the outcome of his/her application before applying anywhere else. Not all schools offer students early admission as a choice. You can check online, in college catalogs, or ask your counselor about specific schools. Remember, if you decide early admission is for you, you will need to find out when you can apply. Most colleges require that early admission applications and the financial aid applications be received by specific dates. This may include applying during the summer before your senior year. If you are thinking about early admission, you should plan to take the required college entrance exam(s) before your senior year Requesting Letters of Recommendation Some college applications (particularly private colleges) and some scholarship applications, require you to have letters of recommendation submitted on your behalf. For example, UW- Madison would like one letter of recommendation from a teacher you have had for two academic courses. It is your responsibility to make requests to people to write these letters for you. Following are some guidelines and suggestions for you to refer to in this process. General Guidelines Read application instructions carefully. Give the writer a stamped, properly addressed envelope. Indicate the deadline for submitting the letter to the school or scholarship committee. Request the letter well in advance of the deadline, (at least two weeks). Check back with the writer to see that the letter has been written and sent, or gather the letter from the writer and mail it in yourself. You and the writer need to determine how the letter will be mailed. Remember it is the responsibility of each student to meet all deadlines! Selecting a Writer Select a person who knows you well and shows interest in you, i.e., teacher, coach, counselor, activity advisor, principal, minister, boss, etc. Ask your counselor to help you select a person to write for you. Select a person who is familiar with your potential and achievements. Select at least one teacher whom you have had as an instructor in an academic subject. Ask teachers with whom you have had more than one class (when possible). Select a person who has challenged you the most. Select a person who could best explain your extra efforts in school or on the job. Ask the person how they feel about writing a good recommendation for you. Student Worksheet To further assist the person who is writing a letter of recommendation for you, you may use the Letter of Recommendation Form in this packet. Try to answer the questions on the form as completely as possible. This form tells the writer information about you that they may not know such as: hobbies, volunteer experiences, etc. Any information of this type that you can provide for the letter writer will enhance their ability to write a good recommendation for you. 10

11 Student Letter of Recommendation: Request Form Please use this form when requesting letters of recommendation from Amery High School staff members. The information you provide on this form greatly aides the writer in creating a powerful letter of recommendation. Please ask staff 2-3 weeks in advance for a letter of recommendation. Student name: Please check one box below: Should this letter be on school letterhead or will a form be provided Delivery of the letter: (Please indicate if you need this returned to yourself, or if it needs to be mailed to a certain address.) Letter of recommendation purpose: (Please indicate if this letter should be addressed to a college admissions office, a scholarship committee, or if you want a general letter of recommendation.) Are there any specific items that need to be emphasized? (Academic ability, athletics, character, classroom participation, leadership skills, etc.) 11

12 Letter of Recommendation Form Continued What are your plans after high school? Where do you plan to attend college, and what do you hope to study? Please indicate any work experience you have had, either paid or volunteer, while in high school: Please provide a list of extracurricular activities you have participated in, and any special awards or honors you have had in these activities. Please list any outside community involvement, hobbies, other interests, or any information that you believe would be helpful for this letter of recommendation. (This could include challenges you have faced, or additional activities you have been involved in, this is a spot to include anything you wish.) 12

13 Writing College Essays Along with "Which came first, the chicken or the egg?" and "Why does the checkout line I'm standing in seem to move the slowest?" the third great question is "What makes a good college application essay?" As is the case with so many issues embraced by the college admissions process, there is no single answer to this question. There are many answers. We'll try to address some of the more substantive issues here. Clarity and Style: Above all else, your essay must be written in a clear and concise manner. No matter how exhilarating your subject, if your essay is incoherent, it will not make a good impression. A few tips: Don't try to impress anyone by stretching your vocabulary. Stick with what you know and with what you find comfortable. Similarly, don't worry about blinding the reader with extravagant style. Try to keep your sentences short and simple. However, don't be afraid to include a bit of levity or other indicators of your creative side if you think it's appropriate for your subject. It's always a good idea to write at least two drafts of your essay and to have a parent, teacher, or friend proofread it. Subject: Some schools designate what subject(s) your essay should cover. But most require at least one essay that has no specific subject guidelines. For the majority of students, the openended essay question is the most difficult. So, how do you choose a subject? Here are a few broad suggestions: an important event in your life (something that affected how you think or feel about a particular subject); an organization to which you belong; an accomplishment about which you are particularly proud; your hobbies or interests; a political or social issue that concerns you; future plans. As long as you write about a subject you know and feel strongly about (either positively or negatively), you are on fertile ground. It s a good idea to discuss your subject with a friend, parent, or school counselor before you begin writing. They can often help you hash out the possibilities and assist in clarifying your sense of purpose. What you write about is generally not nearly as important as how you write about it. Length: If the college to which you are applying has a specific word limit for the essay, don t exceed it. If you cannot adequately address your topic within the word limit, you should try to pare it down or pick another subject entirely. Conversely, if you do not have enough to say about your subject to come relatively close to the word limit (say 75 percent of the maximum), you might want to reconsider. It is by no means necessary, however, to produce precisely the maximum or suggested number of words. Repeat Use: Some colleges do not mind if you submit the same essay to other colleges. If different colleges place different word limits on the essays, you may be able to include or exclude certain points as the case demands. If you will need to vary the length of your essay, be careful to determine which points must be included and which are more extraneous. Discussing this with others can help. Planning: Begin thinking about your essay well ahead of the deadline. Students who write their essays at the last minute do not produce their best work. If you begin to consider possible subjects a couple of months prior to your first deadline, you should be in solid shape. Good luck! 13

14 Wisconsin Public & Private College Admission Requirements School Name Rank ACT Score Fee Priority Additional Requirements App. Date UW-Eau Claire Top 25 %- Top 50 % $44 12/1 May Apply with Unofficial ACT Scores, but Official ACT Scores are Preferred 2 Years Foreign Language UW-Green Bay GPA of $44 Rolling Need Official ACT Scores GPA of UW- La Crosse Top 25% 23- $44 2/1 Need Official ACT Scores 27 UW-Madison Top 15% Competitive $44 11/1 or 2/1 2 + Years of Foreign Language Official ACT with Writing Test Required UW-Milwaukee Top 50% 21 $44 7/1 UW-Oshkosh Top 40% $44 Rolling Top 50% UW-Parkside Top 50% 20 $44 Rolling UW-Platteville Top 50% 22 $44 Rolling Unofficial ACT to Apply, but Official ACT Scores Needed to Attend. UW-River Falls Top 40% 22 (17 wait list) $44 2/1 Elementary Edu. & Animal Science Majors Should Apply by November UW-Stevens Point Top 25-50% $44 Rolling UW-Stout Top 50% 22 $44 1/1 Graphic Design Needs a Portfolio UW-Superior Top 50% 21 $44 Rolling UW-Whitewater Top 40% 20 $44 1/1 UW Colleges (Barron County) Top 75% Varies, 18 and up Rolling 5/1 Marquette Top 40% Free online 12/1 2 Years of Foreign Language University Beloit College Top 50% Average $35 1/15 range Alverno College Unlisted Satisfactory $20 Rolling Application Free Online Cardinal Stritch 2.0 GPA 20 Free Rolling Separate Requirements for Nursing Major Carroll University 2.75 GPA ACT range Free Rolling Top 50% Carthage Unlisted Unlisted $35 12/1 Concordia-Mequon 2.5 GPA 18 $35 Rolling Application Free Online Edgewood College 2.5 GPA 18 $25 Rolling Top 50% Lakeland College Unlisted Unlisted Free Rolling Lawrence Unlisted Not Required $40 1/15 University may submit Marian University 2.0 GPA 18 $20 Rolling Application Free Online Top 50% Milwaukee Institute Top 50% 18 $25 Rolling Interview, Essay and Portfolio Required of Art & Design Free online M. S. O. E. Unlisted Unlisted Free online Rolling Mount Mary Unlisted Unlisted $25 Rolling Application Free Online College Northland College Unlisted Unlisted $25 Rolling Application Free Online Ripon University Top 50% Average ACT $30 Rolling Application Free Online 24 St. Norbert College Unlisted Unlisted $10 online Rolling $25 paper Silver Lake College 2.5 GPA 18 $50 Rolling Viterbo University Top 50% 18 Free online Rolling Wisconsin Lutheran College 2.7 GPA Top 50% $25 paper 21 $20 Rolling Application Free Online 14 Note: the information provided regarding rank/gpa/act are guidelines, colleges use a comprehensive review process during the admissions process.

15 Minnesota Public & Private College Admission Requirements School Name Rank ACT Score Fee Priority Additional Requirements App. Date UM-Duluth Top 35 % or Top 60% with Automatic Average ACT $35 12/15 2 Years of Foreign Language 4 Years of Math UM-Twin Cities Varies Top 50% and Up is Typical Varies 24 and Up is typical $55 12/15 Official ACT Scores with Writing 2 Years of Foreign Language 4 Years of Math UM-Crookston 2.0 GPA 21 $30 12/15 ACT Writing Test Required 4 Years of Math UM-Morris Unlisted Unlisted $35 $25 online 12/15 2 Years of Foreign Language ACT Writing Test Required 4 Years of Math Bemidji State Top 50% or 21 $20 2/1 2 Years Foreign Language Metropolitan State Top 50% or $20 Rolling 2 Years of Foreign Language University 2.00 GPA Average MSU-Mankato Top 50% or Under 50% Automatic 21 $20 1/15 2 Years of Foreign Language 1 Year Arts/World Culture MSU-Moorhead Top 50 % or 21 $20 Rolling 2 Years of Foreign Language St. Cloud State U Top 50% 21 $20 NA 2 Years of Foreign Language or Winona State U Top 50% or Top 2/3rds 18 and up or with 21 $20 2/1 2 Years of Foreign Language Official ACT Scores Required Augsburg College Top 50% Average ACT Free online 4/ Bethany Lutheran Top 50% Average ACT Free Rolling ACT Writing Test College Bethel University Top 50% Average ACT Free 11/ Carleton College Top 25% Average ACT Free online 1/15 ACT or SAT with Writing Required 2 Years of Foreign Language College of Saint Top 50% Average ACT Free 1/15 Benedict College of St. Top 50% Average ACT Free online Rolling Scholastica Concordia College Top 50% Average ACT Free online Rolling (Moorhead) Concordia Top 50% Average ACT $30 Rolling University(St. Paul) Gustavus Adolphus Top 50% Average ACT Free 2/15 College Hamline University Top 50% Average ACT Free 2/ Macalester College Top 25% Average ACT $40 1/ Minneapolis College Average GPA Average ACT $50 2/15 of Art & Design Saint John's Top 50% Average ACT Free 1/15 University Saint Mary's Top 50% Average ACT Free online 1/15 University St. Catherine Top 50% Average ACT Free Rolling University St. Olaf College Top 25-50% Average ACT Free online 1/ University of St. Thomas Top 50% Average ACT Free online Rolling 15 Note: the information provided above regarding rank/gpa/act are guidelines, colleges use a comprehensive review process during the admissions process.

16 TYPES OF POST-SECONDARY INSTITUTIONS Wisconsin State University (HOTLINE ) Consists of 14 four-year institutions and 13 freshman/sophomore campuses. See following page for individual numbers. Wisconsin Technical Colleges - (HOTLINE TECH) Consists of 16 colleges with 47 campuses throughout the state. No WTCS program requires more than two years of full-time study and many require less than a year. See following page for individual numbers. Wisconsin Private Colleges - (HOTLINE DEGREE) Consists of 20 colleges throughout the state of Wisconsin. See following page for individual numbers. Minnesota State Colleges & University - (HOTLINE MnSCU-4-U) A merged system, which includes 21 Community Colleges, 34 Technical Colleges, and 7 State Universities in Minnesota. State Universities- Bemidji, Mankato, Metropolitan, Moorhead, St. Cloud, Southwest, Winona State. University of Minnesota System - The U of M offers programs on five campuses: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Morris and Crookston. Twin Cities ( ), Duluth ( ), Morris ( ) and Crookston ( ) Minnesota Private 4-year Colleges - (HOTLINE ) Augsburg College, Bethel College, Carleton College, College of St. Benedict, College of St. Catherine, College of St. Scholastica, Concordia College-Moorhead, Concordia University-St. Paul, Gustavus Adolphus College, Hamline University, Macalester College, Minneapolis College of Art and Design, St. John s University, St. Mary s University of Minnesota, St. Olaf College, University of St. Thomas. North Dakota University System - (Individual toll-free numbers) Bismark, Dickinson, Mayville, Minot, Minot-Bottineau Campus, North Dakota State College of Science, North Dakota State University, University of North Dakota, University of North Dakota-Lake Region, University of North Dakota-Williston, Valley City State University. Iowa Colleges and Universities - (Individual numbers) AIB College of Business, Briar Cliff College, Buena Vista University, Central College, Clarke College, Coe College, Cornell College, Dordt College, Drake University, Graceland College, Grand View College, Grinnell College, Iowa State University, Iowa Wesleyan College, Loras College, Luther College, Maharishi University of Management, Morningside College, Mount Mercy College, Mount St. Clare College, Northwestern College, St. Ambrose University, University of Dubuque, University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa, Upper Iowa University, Waldorf College, Wartburg College, William Penn University. 16

17 Differences Among: Private, Public, Technical Schools & Colleges Community, Technical, and Junior Colleges Many colleges offer programs that are less than four years in length. Most of these schools offer education and training programs that are two years in length or shorter. The programs often lead to a license, a certificate, an associate of arts (A.A.) degree, an associate of science (A.S.) degree, or an associate of applied science (A.A.S.) degree. Community Colleges: These are public, two-year colleges. They mostly serve people from nearby communities and offer academic courses, technical courses, and continuing education courses. Public institutions are supported by state and local revenues. Technical Colleges: These are generally colleges that have a special emphasis on education and training in technical fields. While some technical colleges offer academic courses and programs, not all technical colleges offer two-year programs that lead to an associate of arts or science degree. Technical colleges may be private or public. Junior colleges and community colleges that offer many technical courses are often called technical colleges. Junior Colleges: These are generally two-year colleges that are private institutions. Some junior colleges are residential and are attended by students who come from other parts of the country. Four-Year Colleges and Universities These schools usually offer a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Some also offer graduate and professional degrees. (Resources provided from 17

18 University of Wisconsin System Eau Claire Green Bay La Crosse Madison Milwaukee Oshkosh Parkside Platteville Stevens Point Stout Superior The Higher Education Location Program, or UW HELP, is available for information and advising. They can be reached at or visit University of Wisconsin Freshman/Sophomore Campuses Baraboo/Sauk County (Baraboo) Barron County (Rice Lake) Fond Du Lac (Fond Du Lac) Fox Valley (Menasha) Manitowoc (Manitowoc) Marathon (Wausau) Marinette (Marinette) Marshfield/Wood (Marshfield) Richland (Richland Center) Rock (Janesville) Sheboygan (Sheboygan) Washington (West Bend) Waukesha (Waukesha) You can learn more about the UW Freshman/Sophomore campus online at or call INFO-UWC. 18

19 University of Wisconsin Madison With over 41,000 students, (29,000 undergraduates) Wisconsin is ranked 13 th among public universities. There are eight undergraduate schools offering 157 majors, the schools differ in majors and goals. Admission standards are high, but so is the quality of undergraduate education. Each year about 6,000 students are admitted to the freshman class, last year 29,000 applied. The typical ACT score last year was 27 to 30, and students ranked in the 85 th to 96 th percentile of their class and the average unweighted GPA range was Viewbook Link Office of Admissions University of Wisconsin- Madison 702 West Johnson Street, Suite 1101 Madison, WI UW-Madison Admission Profile: Applications will typically be accepted starting September 15 th each year for freshmen applicants. Students with the strongest grade point average, class rank, course preparation, and test scores will have the greatest chance of admission. The reality of admissions these days is that just meeting the minimum requirements is not likely to make an applicant competitive. The level, depth, and breadth of a student s overall course of study are extremely important in the admission process. Course Minimum for Application Typical Admission English 4 units 4 + units Mathematics 3 units 3 + units Algebra 1 unit 1 unit Geometry 1 unit 1 unit Advanced math 1 unit 2 + units Social Studies 3 units 4 + units Natural Science 3 units 4 units Single Foreign Language 2 units 4 units Additional Units 2 units 2 + units Total 17 units 22 + units English courses must have an emphasis on literature, composition, or speech/rhetoric. Geometry must be college-track plane geometry. Advanced Math is Algebra II, Pre-Calculus 1 & 2 and Calculus 1 & 2. Additional units would be classes from fine arts, communication arts, computer science or one of the academic areas listed above. Application Deadlines Deadline Notification 1 st Notification Period November 1 End of January 2 nd Notification Period February 1 End of March Helpful web sites at the UW-Madison: University of Wisconsin Apply Online Admissions City of Madison Campus Information & Visitor Center Financial Aid University Housing Online Campus Visit Registration System

20 Visit Information for UW-Madison INFORMATION SESSION AND CAMPUS TOUR Our admissions information sessions cover the application process, life as a student, information about financing your education, and what our graduates are doing in the world. Admissions counselors lead these sessions Monday through Friday, followed by a campus walking tour led by an undergraduate student. Sign up online. Housing tours are not offered as part of the Campus Tour. Prospective students can find information about touring two sample rooms in University Housing's Lakeshore Neighborhood by visiting this webpage. We also welcome students to research each of the University Residence Halls on the housing website for specific information about each hall and to view photos. WEEKEND WALKING TOURS If you plan to visit over a weekend, there are student-guided campus walking tours that leave from Union South on Saturdays and Sundays, except for home football Saturdays and holidays. A selfguided tour is also available from the Campus and Community Information Desk located at Union South. Sign up online. PROSPECTIVE FRESHMEN STUDENTS We no longer schedule individual appointments for prospective freshmen to meet one-on-one with an admissions counselor. Instead, we encourage students to visit campus for a counselor-led information session and to go on a tour conducted by an undergraduate student. Counselors can also assist students with questions at the Union South welcome desk or in the Office of Admissions and Recruitment lobby. To set up a campus visit, go to vistibucky.wisc.edu, visitbucky@admission.wisc.edu, or call Tuition, Fees, and Expenses for Tuition and Fee $10,424 Books and Supplies $1,200 Room and Board $8,600 Miscellaneous $3,214 Travel $1,024 Estimated Total Cost $22,542 Wisconsin Resident Scholarships at UW Madison Scholarships.wisc.edu The university hosts a website that lets students easily search for scholarships being offered campuswide in addition to those offered by their undergraduate schools and colleges. Seniors should begin applying for them as soon as they submit an application for admission. All you need to do is log in and begin searching for those that match your qualifications and interest. Most deadlines are either February 1 st or March 1 st. 20

21 Tips for Completing the College Applicant Statement With 25,000+ qualified students applying for admission to UW Madison each year, we cannot overstate the importance the statements play in our application review and decision-making process. Section 9 of the application is the Statements Section. Students are asked to respond to the following two prompts: The University of Wisconsin values an educational environment that provides all members of the campus community with opportunities to grow and develop intellectually, personally, culturally, and socially. In order to give us a more complete picture of you as an individual, please tell us about the particular life experiences, perspectives, talents, commitments and/or interests you will bring to our campus. In other words, how will your presence enrich our community? Tell us about your academic goals, circumstances that may have had an impact on your academic performance, and, in general, anything else you would like us to know in making an admission decision. Use the statements to distinguish yourself. Stand out among our applicants, help us to know you beyond your GPA and test scores, and give us a reason to offer you admission to Wisconsin. Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind: Write on Both Topics: There are two statements. Write on both. Those who do not are less likely to be admitted. Answer the Questions: The first statement, regarding your life experiences and the impact you will have on our campus, is very focused. Write to the question. Be specific, use recent examples, and focus on what is unique about you. The second statement is more general. This is your chance to tell us things about yourself that aren t revealed throughout the rest of your application characterdefining moments, academic or personal challenges faced, hardships overcome, or a cultural awareness developed. This second statement is the only part of the application over which you have complete control. Take advantage of that freedom. Be Complete and Concise: We offer a rough guideline of words per statement. That being said, you should use as many words as necessary to answer the questions and tell us what we need to know about you. Use the statements to demonstrate how you think about things and that you can write concisely and clearly about your thoughts. Excuse Text Formatting Issues on the Online Application: We encourage you to write your statements in a word processing application (such as Microsoft Word), utilize spelling and grammar checks, and then cut-and-paste the text into the appropriate box on the online application. Upon doing so, some of the formatting (paragraph spacing, font styles, etc.) will drop out. You may also see some odd characters being inserted into your statements (e.g., an apostrophe converting to a question mark). Do not become alarmed. This is an issue with the application programming. You should proceed to submit the statement and your application. We see these same formatting issues in all the statements we review. It will not reflect unfavorably upon you. Changing Your Schedule Senior Year, How This Impacts Your Admissions to UW-Madison The University of Wisconsin Madison Office of Admissions does not approve or deny senior-year course schedule changes. You should consult with your high school counselor and consider the pros, cons, and consequences of a course change. Once you have made your decision, you must notify the Office of Admissions, in writing, of the change. Be aware that a change that results in a less academically rigorous course of study may jeopardize your admissibility or offer of admission. Admission to UW Madison is based on our evaluation of a number of factors, including reported senior-year (or college) course work and your predicted continued academic success. It is very important that you successfully complete the course work entered on your application. Any curriculum change could affect your admission status, and declining grades may be cause for revoking admission. 21