College Changes Everything. Senior Handbook Lives Families Communities

Transcription

1 College Changes Everything Lives Families Communities Senior Handbook This publication is brought to you in part by Cox Communications of Hampton Roads

2 THE COLLEGE FOUNDATION Senior Handbook Handbook Sponsors Mission Statement: To provide students, who may not have the opportunity, the path to attend and complete college.

3 Bonnie B. Sutton President and CEO Access Dear Students, Parents and Members of the Community: Navigating the college preparation and application process can be intimidating for your family. We understand that the choices are many and the process daunting, but Access is here to help. Our mission is to provide students, who may not otherwise have the opportunity, with the path to attend and complete college. Education beyond high school is more important than ever. Put simply, College Changes Everything. Access is dedicated to providing you with the tools necessary to be successful in your educational endeavors. We remain tirelessly committed to providing comprehensive assistance to students and families in South Hampton Roads. This College Prep Handbook is an essential tool where you will find guidance on every aspect of the college admissions and financial aid processes. Be sure to visit the Access Advisor in your high school for assistance with getting ready for college and successfully enrolling. Additionally, our sponsors for this Handbook have provided information on how to manage your personal finances, courtesy of Bank of America; and an offer from Cox Communications for affordable home internet service is made available to certain families as well. You can help us further the Access mission by using this Handbook and your Access Advisor to fulfill your educational dreams. Sincerely, Bonnie B. Sutton President and CEO

4 College September Table of Contents Where Am I Going?... 7 What Tests Do I Take? How Do I Apply? How Will I Pay? This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

5 4 This document may not be reproduced without written permission for Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

6 College Checklist for Your Senior Year September/October Schedule an appointment with your Access Advisor. Get a Fee Waiver Application and Student Release form. Register for the SAT and/or ACT. Request all college applications and scholarship information. Make a list of deadlines for college applications, scholarships, and financial aid applications. Find out which financial aid applications your college choices require. The Admissions Application Organizer in the How Do I Apply section will help you with this. Return Release Form and Fee Waiver Application to Access Advisor. Complete your Admissions Application Organizer in the How Do I Apply section with a list of what needs to be done. Take SAT and/or ACT. Begin preparing college applications and scholarship applications, paying close attention to individual deadlines and early decision dates. Remember to begin requesting your high school transcripts. November/December Attend the Financial Aid Workshop. Check with your Access Advisor for date/time. Complete all college applications before December 1 st to be eligible for scholarships from the colleges. This can be done online or on paper, depending on college requirement. January Pick up a copy of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) from the Access Advisor. Make an appointment with your Access Advisor for help with filing the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1 st. February Make sure your FAFSA is completed before February 15 th. To be eligible for the maximum amount of financial aid, you must file the FAFSA by the priority deadline of the colleges you are considering. Your parents do not need to have completed their taxes in order to file your FAFSA. March Check your Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy. Take it to your Access Advisor. (It should arrive about four weeks after filing your FAFSA.) Start verification process. KEEP COPIES OF ALL FORMS YOU SUBMIT. April Watch the mail for college acceptance letters. As soon as you receive a scholarship letter or financial aid award letter from a college, take it to your Access Advisor. Make your final college decision and send in housing deposit by the deadline. This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

7 May Fill out transcript request form (in Guidance) to have your final transcript forwarded to the college you choose. Make sure all of your paperwork is in order. (Note: To be eligible for an Access Scholarship, the Access Scholarship Application and all attachments must be turned in to your Access Advisor by the end of May. Check our website or with the Access Advisor in your school for the actual deadline date.) June Enjoy graduation day! 6 This document may not be reproduced without written permission for Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

8 SU C C E S S Where am i going? I can t wait too late to decide! Most colleges have admission application deadlines. The next few pages show deadlines for admission and financial aid applications for colleges in Virginia.

9 In this section, you will find: Quick Reference Guide to Colleges and Universities in Virginia Information about Out-of-State Options This will help you select the college that best fits you.

10 College Quick Reference Guide to Colleges and Community Colleges in Virginia SAT and ACT scores listed are the averages unless otherwise indicated. The scores are based on the combined Critical Reading and Math scores on the SAT. Be sure to visit the colleges website for more information. **Admission is based on many factors. Do not rule out a school if your GPA and Scores are not an exact match. ** 4-Year Virginia Public Colleges and Universities Christopher Newport University - Located in Newport News - Medium: about 5,100 students GPA, SAT, Students with a GPA above 3.5 may apply without SAT/ACT scores - New performing arts center, library, student union, science center, and dorms - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Regular Decision 2/01, Early Decision 11/1, Early Action 12/1 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: The College of William & Mary - Located in Williamsburg - Medium: about 8,400 students GPA, SAT, ACT - Gateway financial aid initiative for VA students from low-income backgrounds - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: Early Decision 11/01, Regular Decision 01/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: George Mason University - Located in Fairfax, 15 miles west of Washington, DC - Large: about 53,000 students GPA, SAT (Critical Reading + Math), ACT - Lots of opportunities for internships/work experience in the DC area - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: 11/01 early action (non-binding), 12/01 Scholarship and Honors College, 01/15 regular - Financial aid deadline: 3/1 - Federal School Code: James Madison University - Located in Harrisonburg, about 3-½ hour drive from Norfolk - Large: about 18,300 students; residential campus GPA, SAT (Critical Reading + Math), ACT - Unique Major: Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT) - Division I athletics; Football: Division I-AA - Admissions deadline: 11/1 early action, 1/15 regular decision - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

11 College Longwood University - Located in Farmville (South-Central VA) - Medium: about 4,500 students; residential campus ; SAT (Critical Reading + Math); ACT - Most popular majors: Business and Education - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: Regular Admission 3/01, Early Action 12/1, School of Nursing 12/1 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: University of Mary Washington - Located in Fredericksburg (halfway between Richmond and Washington, DC) - Medium: about 4,300 students; residential campus GPA, SAT, ACT - The oldest and most intensive historic preservation program for undergraduate students in the country - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Early Action 11/15, Regular 2/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Norfolk State University - Located in Norfolk; Historically Black University, - Medium: about 6,000 students; mostly commuter students GPA, SAT, 17 ACT - DNIMAS Scholarship for students interested in studying Physics, Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry and Applied Mathematics Requires 3.3 GPA, 1500 SAT, 22 ACT - Popular Majors: Mass Communications, Nursing, Business, Music, Technology - Division I-AA athletics (MEAC Conference) - Admissions priority deadline: 5/31 DNIMAS 12/15 - Financial aid priority deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Old Dominion University - Located in Norfolk - Large: about 25,000 students - Mid-range GPA: , Mid-range SAT (Critical Reading + Math) - Career Advantage Program; New Student Recreation Center - Division I athletics; Football team reinstated in Admissions deadline: 12/1 early action (scholarship consideration), 2/01 regular decision - Financial aid deadline: 2/15 - Federal School Code: Radford University - Located in Radford (Southwest VA) - Medium: about 10,000 students; residential campus GPA, SAT, ACT - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: 12/1 early action, 1/15 academic scholarship consideration, 2/01 regular decision - Financial aid deadline: 2/15 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

12 College University of Virginia - Located in Charlottesville (Central VA) - Medium: about 16,000 undergraduate students; residential campus GPA, SAT, ACT - Minority recruiting effort underway to diversify student body - Division I athletics/acc - Admissions deadline: 1/01, Early Action 11/01 - Financial aid priority deadline: 3/01 *must also complete the Collegeboard CSS PROFILE - Federal School Code: University of Virginia College at Wise - Located in Wise (Southwest VA) - Formerly known as Clinch Valley College; branch of UVA - Medium : about 2,300 students; residential campus average GPA, SAT, ACT - NAIA Division II athletics - Admissions deadline: 8/01, Early Action 12/01 - Financial aid deadline: 4/01 - Federal School Code: Virginia Commonwealth University - Located in downtown Richmond - Large: about 31,000 students GPA, SAT, ACT - Strong programs in the visual and performing arts, humanities and sciences, health sciences and social work - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: 11/15 guaranteed admission to school of medicine, 12/1 scholarship consideration, 1/15 regular decision - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Virginia Military Institute - Located in Lexington (Western Central VA) - Small: about 1,700 students; residential campus GPA, SAT, 26 ACT - Strong programs in Math and Engineering - Division I athletics - Early Decision 11/15, Admissions deadline: 2/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University - Located in Blacksburg (Southwest VA) - Large: about 30,936 students (23,700 undergraduate); residential campus - Middle 50 th percentile GPA, SAT (Writing, Critical Reading & Math) - Each student required to have his/her own computer - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: 11/1 early decision (binding), 1/15 regular decision - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

13 College Virginia State University - Historically Black University located in Petersburg - Medium: about 5,600 students; residential campus GPA, SAT, ACT - Total of 32 majors in three schools - Division II athletics - Admissions deadline: 3/31 priority, 5/1 - Financial aid deadline: 3/31 - Federal School Code: Year Virginia Private Colleges and Universities Averett University - Located in Danville (central VA near VA/NC border) - Small: about 900 students; residential campus GPA, 941 SAT (Critical Reading + Math), 19 ACT - Unique Majors: Aviation and Equestrian Studies - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Priority 5/01 Regular 7/01 - Financial aid deadline: 5/01 - Federal School Code: Bluefield College - Located in Bluefield (Southwest VA near VA/WV border) - Small: about 800 students; residential campus GPA, SAT, ACT - Most affordable private school in VA - NAIA Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: Rolling - Financial aid deadline: 3/15 - Federal School Code: Bridgewater College - Located in Bridgewater (Northwest VA, near JMU) - Small: about 1,850 students GPA, 1547 SAT (average Math & Verbal), ACT - Most popular majors: Biology, Business, Psychology, Education, Athletic Training - Museum of Shenandoah Valley and Church of the Brethren Equestrian Center - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: 05/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Christendom College - Located in Front Royal, Virginia - Catholic, liberal arts college - Small: about 450 students GPA, SAT, ACT - Conducts Mass twice daily - Admission Deadline: Early Action 12/1, Priority Decision 03/01 - Financial Aid deadline: 4/1 (Does not accept the FAFSA form, see website for required forms) 12 This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

14 College Eastern Mennonite University - Located in Harrisonburg (near JMU & Bridgewater) - Small: about 1100 undergraduate students GPA, SAT(average); ACT - Strong Education, Nursing, Business, Pre-professional health programs - Museum of Natural History, Arboretum and campus garden exists on campus - Unique Major: Justice, Peace and Conflict Studies, Photography and, Environmental Sustainability - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: 05/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Emory & Henry College - Located in Emory (Southwest VA) - Small: about 1,000 students GPA, Average 3.47 GPA, SAT, ACT - Unique Major: International Business - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: 12/01 Early Action, rolling - Financial aid deadline: 04/01 - Federal School Code: Ferrum College - Located in Ferrum (Southwest VA) - Small: about 1,500 students; residential campus GPA, SAT, ACT - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Rolling / Priority: 3/01 - Financial aid deadline: 03/01 - Federal School Code: Hampden-Sydney College - Located in Hampden-Sydney (Central VA) - Small: about 1,070 students; residential campus GPA, SAT, ACT - All male college - 10 th Oldest College - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Early Decision 11/15, Early Action 12/15 and 1/15, Regular 3/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Hampton University - Historically Black University, located in Hampton - Medium: about 4,600 students; residential campus GPA, SAT (Critical Read + Math), ACT - 52 Undergraduate Programs - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: Early Action 11/01; Regular Decision 3/01 - Financial aid deadline: Priority 2/15 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

15 College Hollins University - Located in Roanoke - Small: about 750 students, all women - Average: 3.6 GPA, 1112 SAT, 24 ACT - Creative Writing program, Art, Political Science, Business - Division III athletics (including Equestrian Riding) - Admissions deadline: Early Decision 11/01 (Binding), Early Action 12/01 - Financial aid deadline: 2/15 - Federal School Code: Jefferson College of Health Sciences - Located in Roanoke (Southwest VA) - Small: about 1,000 students; commuter campus GPA, 960 SAT, 19 ACT - Associate, Bachelor and Master degree program in Nursing & other health care disciplines - New Programs: Emergency Services, Health Psychology, Health & Exercise Science - Admissions deadline: Rolling - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Liberty University - Located in Lynchburg (Central VA) - Large: about 12,000 students; residential campus GPA, 1, SAT, 23 ACT - Christian academic community - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: Priority 1/31 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Lynchburg College - Located in Lynchburg (Central VA) - Small: about 2,200 students GPA, 1050 SAT, 23 ACT - Westover Honors Program; Academic and Visual & Performing Arts Scholarships - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Rolling, Early Decision 11/15 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Mary Baldwin College - Located in Staunton (Western VA) - Small: about 1,700 students, residential, all women GPA, 940 SAT, 22 ACT - Unique Programs: Health Care Administration, Bachelor of Social Work - Virginia Women s Institute for Leadership leadership training program - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: 4/15 (Rolling Admissions) - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

16 College Marymount University - Located in Arlington (Northern VA) - Small: about 3,700 students GPA, 1006 SAT, 21 ACT - Internships required - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Priority 4/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Randolph-Macon College - Located in Ashland (North of Richmond) - Small: about 1,300 students GPA, 1077 SAT - Dual degree programs available in Engineering and Forestry - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Regular 3/01, Early Action 11/15 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Randolph College - Located in Lynchburg (Central VA) - Founded as Randolph-Macon Woman s College in Small: about 645 students GPA, SAT, ACT - Writing Requirement in every discipline - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Regular 3/01, Early Action 12/01 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: Regent University - Located in Virginia Beach - Medium: about 2,400 undergraduate students, residential housing available GPA, 1537 SAT, 23 ACT - Cinema-Television, Animation, and Theater programs are state of the art. Other popular majors are Christian Ministry, Government, Psychology and Education. - Intramural sports and study abroad opportunities are available - Admissions deadline: 5/01 - Financial aid deadline: 03/15 (priority) - Federal School Code: Roanoke College - Located in Salem (Southwest VA) - Medium: about 2,000 students GPA, 1617 SAT, 23 ACT - Community service requirement - 19 Division III men s and women s athletics - Admissions deadline: 3/15 - Financial aid deadline: 3/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

17 College Shenandoah University - Located in Winchester (Northwest VA) - Medium: about 4,100 students GPA, 1499 SAT, 22 ACT - Conservatory of Music, Theater and Dance; Strong Health Professions - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Priority 3/01 - Financial aid priority deadline: Suggested 3/15 - Federal School Code: Sweet Briar College - Located in Sweet Briar (Central VA) - Small: about 750 students, all women GPA, 1584 SAT, 24 ACT - Horse stables on campus - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: 2/01 - Financial aid deadline: 2/15 - Federal School Code: University of Richmond - Located in Richmond - Medium: about 3, 100 students - Majority are top 10% of their class, 1940 SAT, 30 ACT - Offers Leadership Studies program, the only one of its kind in the country - Robins School of Business is one of the top 15 undergraduate business programs in the country - Division I athletics - Admissions deadline: 1/15 - Financial aid deadline: 2/15 *must also complete the Collegeboard CSS PROFILE - Federal School Code: Virginia Intermont College - Located in Bristol (Southwest VA near VA/TN border) - Small: about 400 students GPA, 1000 SAT (writing not included), 22 ACT - Unique Majors: Equine Studies, Paralegal Studies, Photography, Theatre Design, Tourism - Intercollegiate Athletics - Admissions deadline: Rolling - Financial aid deadline: 2/15 - Federal School Code: Virginia Union University - Historically Black University located in Richmond - Small: about 1,300 students GPA, 900 SAT (writing not included), 16 ACT - City of Richmond, VA. Union Police Training Academy and Criminal Justice Program - Division II athletics - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 4/27 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

18 College Virginia Wesleyan College - Located on Norfolk/Virginia Beach line - Small: about 1,400 students GPA, 1000 SAT - Emphasis on internships and undergraduate research opportunities - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Early Action 12/10, Priority 3/01 - Financial aid deadline: Priority 3/01 - Federal School Code: Washington and Lee University - Located in Lexington (Western VA) - Small: about 1,900 students - Majority are top 10% of their class, 2069 SAT, 31 ACT (Two SAT Subject tests are strongly recommended) - 10% of each class receives full Johnson Scholarship (SAT/ACT must be taken before December to be eligible) - Shepherd Program for the Interdisciplinary Study of Poverty and Human Capability integrates academic study and learning through service and reflection - Internship programs in DC and Manhattan - Division III athletics - Admissions deadline: Regular 1/01, Early Decision 11/01 - Financial aid deadline: 2/15 *must also complete the Collegeboard CSS PROFILE - Federal School Code: Year Virginia Public Community Colleges Blue Ridge Community College - Located in Weyers Cave (in the Central Shenandoah Valley) - Medium: about 4,400 students - You must have a high school diploma/its equivalent OR be 18 years of age or older, and be able to benefit from a program of study at BRCC. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Unique programs in Aviation Maintenance Technology and Veterinary Technology - Intramural sports available - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 05/01 - Federal School Code: Central Virginia Community College - Located in Lynchburg, VA - Medium: about 4,700 students - You must have a high school diploma/its equivalent OR be 18 years of age or older, and be able to benefit from a program of study at CVCC. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Intramural sports available - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: Apply at least 6-8 weeks before enrolling - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

19 College Dabney S. Lancaster Community College - Located in Clifton Forge - Small: about 2,150 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Guaranteed Admission Agreements to various nursing programs (and other programs) - No application fee to apply to DSLCC - Intramural basketball available - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 05/01 - Federal School Code: Danville Community College - Located in Danville, VA (45 miles from Greensboro, NC) - Medium: about 4,300 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - 41% of students study Business Marketing and 33% are enrolled in a liberal arts program - No application fee to apply - Club level baseball (Men only) and basketball - Financial aid deadline: priority 06/01 - Admissions deadline: priority 08/20 - Federal School Code: Eastern Shore Community College - Located in Melfa, VA (on the Eastern Shore, about 60 miles from Norfolk) - Small: about 860 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - No sports available - No application fee to apply - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 05/01 - Federal School Code: Germanna Community College - Located in Locust Grove, VA (about 30 minutes West of Fredericksburg) - Medium Sized: about 7,400 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Competitive nursing program and distance learning partnership with Old Dominion University - Intramural flag football and a variety of other organizations - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 05/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

20 College J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College - Located in Richmond, VA - Medium Sized: about 12,500 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - 31% of students are studying Health Professions, 18% Business/Marketing, and 16% Social Sciences - Various intramural sports and tournaments (pool, soccer, Madden 25, etc.) - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 04/15 - Federal School Code: John Tyler Community College - Located in Chester, VA - Medium Sized: about 10,000 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Competitive nursing program and funeral services program - 58% of enrolled students are pursuing a liberal arts degree - Club sports available - Admissions deadline: priority 08/01 - Financial aid deadline: priority 05/15 - Federal School Code: Lord Fairfax Community College - Located in Middletown, VA - Medium: about 7,238 students - You must have a high school diploma/its equivalent OR be 18 years of age or older, and be able to benefit from a program of study at BRCC. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Distance learning partnership with Old Dominion University - Club sports available - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 05/01 - Federal School Code: Mountain Empire Community College - Located in Big Stone Gap, VA - Small: about 2,924 students - You must have a high school diploma/its equivalent OR be 18 years of age or older, and be able to benefit from a program of study at CVCC. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - 26% enrolled students pursing liberal arts - Intramural sports available - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 05/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

21 College New River Community College - Located Dublin, VA - Medium: about 4,833 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Distance learning partnership with Old Dominion University - Intramural basketball available - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 04/15 - Federal School Code: Northern Virginia Community College - Located in Annandale, VA - Large: about 51,803 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - 6 campuses in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun County, Manassas, Springfield and Woodbridge - Intramural sports - Financial aid deadline: rolling - Admissions deadline: priority 03/01 - Federal School Code: G41694 Patrick Henry Community College - Located in Martinsville, VA - Medium: about 3,163 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Mobile Digital learning program - Intercollegiate and intramural sports - Admissions deadline: 08/01 - Financial aid deadline: 06/01 - Federal School Code: Paul D. Camp Community College - Located in Franklin, VA - Small: about 1,392 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Distance learning 2+2 Articulated agreement with Old Dominion University - No sports available - Financial aid deadline: 08/01 - Admissions deadline: priority 05/15 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

22 College Piedmont Community College - Located in Charlottesville, VA - Medium: about 5,621 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years. - Distance learning partnership with Old Dominion University - 35% enrolled students pursing liberal arts - Intramural and Club sports - Financial aid deadline: rolling - Admissions deadline: rolling - Federal School Code: Southside Virginia Community College - Located in Alberta, VA (70 miles South of Richmond) - Medium Sized: about 6,000 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - Cannot be exempted from placement testing - Competitive nursing program and funeral services program - Various support resources for pregnant and parenting students - Intramural sports; nature trail and fitness trail on site - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: priority 06/01 - Federal School Code: Southwest Virginia Community College - Located in Richlands, VA (45 miles from Bluefield and Bristol) - Medium: about 2,600 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years (does not include Health Professions) - No sports; about 20 clubs and organizations - 45% of students pursue a liberal arts program and 30% pursue a health professions program - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: priority 05/30 - Federal School Code: Thomas Nelson Community College - Located in Newport News, VA - Medium: about 9,100 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years - New Dental Hygiene program opened in 2010; SIFE program; Teacher Prep Program; William & Mary Co-Enrollment - Intramural and club sports available - Extensive evening or early morning classes available - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: priority 05/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

23 College Tidewater Community College - Four campuses across Hampton Roads (Norfolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake) - Large: about 29,000 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years or satisfactory Advanced Placement (AP), CLEP, DANTES, or Excelsior College scores for English and/or math, as determined by the college. - Intercollegiate and Club athletics available; Over 40 clubs and organizations - Brand new state-of-the-art student centers on each campus - On-site childcare - Competitive nursing program - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: 04/01 - Federal School Code: Virginia Highlands Community College - Located in Abingdon, VA - Medium: about 2,500 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years - Intramural and club sports available - Unique facilities include a greenhouse and regional artisan center - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: priority 05/01 - Federal School Code: Virginia Western Community College - Located in Roanoke, VA - Medium: about 8,650 students - Any person who has a high school diploma or the equivalent, or who is 18 years of age and able to benefit from a program at the College, may be admitted. - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years - Intramural and club sports available - Unique facilities include a community arboretum, dental hygiene clinic, and a center for science and health professions - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: priority 06/20 - Federal School Code: Wytheville Community College - Located in Wytheville, VA (74 miles from Roanoke, VA) - Medium: about 3,400 students - Any person who is 18 or older or who has obtained a high school diploma or the equivalent may be admitted to the College - May be exempt from placement test based on a 500/Critical Reading, 500/Writing, and 520/Math SAT score or a 21/English, 21/Writing, and 22/Math ACT score within the last two years - Intramural and intercollegiate sports available - 34% of students pursue a health professions program - Variety of student support resources including Safe Space, an academic resource center, and a career center - Admissions deadline: rolling - Financial aid deadline: priority 04/01 - Federal School Code: This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

24 College What about Colleges and Universities Outside Virginia? What are My Out-of-State Options? Out-of-state colleges are certainly an option to consider, but keep in mind that out-of-state colleges often have higher tuition costs. You may have to pay out-of-state tuition (a higher tuition rate) unless you or your parents have established and maintained residency (domicile) in that state. Out-of-state tuition is most often an issue when you enroll at an out-ofstate public college or university. Private colleges do not usually charge higher tuition to out-ofstate students. Check the College Board website at and click on College Search to obtain access to college matchmaker and get a list of colleges that meet your needs. What are My International Options? Study abroad is an often overlooked option. There are international colleges and universities that have costs that are lower than going to colleges and universities in the United States. Federal financial aid grants and loans can be used to attend college abroad at colleges that meet federal qualifications. Scholarships can be used to study abroad. For more information on study abroad opportunities, visit Are there Ways to Pay In-State Tuition at an Out-of-State College? There are ways to pay in-state tuition at colleges outside Virginia through the Academic Common Market. The Academic Common Market is an organization of colleges in sixteen states that allows students to attend college out of their home state at in-state tuition rates. There is a catch, however. You must be studying a subject not available at a college in your home state. For more information about the Academic Common Market, visit the Southern Regional Education Board website at Are there Other Issues to Consider? There are many issues other than tuition to consider. Those issues include: Is my major offered at the college? Will transportation to and from home on weekends or breaks take a lot of time or money? Will I be comfortable in the culture or that part of the country? Am I ready to be that far from home? This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

25 College 24 This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

26 WHAT TESTS DO I TAKE? What are the deadlines? How do I register? How do I prepare?

27 In this section, you will find: Information about College Entrance Tests College Entrance Testing Schedules Online Registration Instructions This will help you decide which test is right for you.

28 College To ACT or to SAT.That is the Question! What is the Difference between the ACT and the SAT? The ACT and the SAT are both college entrance tests; however, there are some significant differences: The ACT is a content based test and measures what you have learned in school. The ACT tests your knowledge of English, math, reading and science. The ACT has an optional writing test. The ACT is a three hour test scored based upon the number of correct answers. There is no penalty for guessing on the ACT. ACT tests are scored on a scale of 1-36 points each with the overall maximum possible composite score (not including the essay) of 36. The SAT is a critical thinking and problem solving test. The SAT tests your writing, math and critical reading skills. The SAT is a three hour and forty-five minute test scored based upon the number of correct answers adjusted for guessing. That means there is a penalty for guessing on the SAT, if your answer is not correct. The SAT tests are scored by section on a scale of up to a maximum score of Most colleges accept either test although the SAT is the primary test taken by students. Both tests request general information about you. Both tests are used for admissions decisions, talent identification, academic advising and awarding scholarships. ACT TEST ACT TEST CONTENT SAT TEST SAT TEST CONTENT English Usage, Mechanics Writing Multiple Choice and Essay Math Pre-algebra, Elementary Algebra, Math Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry Intermediate Algebra, Coordinate Geometry, Plane Geometry, Trigonometry Reading Arts and Literature, Prose Fiction, Critical Reading Sentence Completion, Humanities, Social Studies and Critical Reading in Humanities, Natural Sciences and Social Narrative Science Interpretation Analysis, Evaluation, No Science Test N/A Reasoning and Problem Solving Skills in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Physical Sciences Writing Essay Writing Multiple Choice and Essay Which Test Should I Choose? Look at the website for the college(s) you may attend. Note whether they require the SAT or ACT. Go on the website for both tests and look at sample questions to determine which test is compatible with your strengths. Your Access Advisor can discuss this with you further. What Do the Tests Cost? The ACT is $38.00 for the basic test and $54.50 if you also take the writing test. The SAT is $ If you will have difficulty paying the test fees, see your Access Advisor to determine whether you are eligible for fee waivers or fee payments. This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

29 College SAT SAT Testing Schedule Registration Deadlines Regular Sept. 12 Oct. 9 Nov. 6 Dec. 29 Feb. 13 April 6 May 8 Late Sept.30 Oct. 28 Nov. 24 Jan. 13 Mar. 3 April 21 May 27 Test Dates Oct. 11 Nov. 8 Dec. 6 Jan. 24 Mar. 14 May 2 June 6 Locations CB Code Bayside High School X X X X X X X Bishop Sullivan Catholic High (VB) X X X First Colonial (VB) X X X X X X X Green Run (VB) X X X X X X X Oak Tree Academy (VB) X X X X Princess Anne (VB) X X X X X X X Granby (N) X X X ODU (N) X X Deep Creek (C) X X X Grassfield (C) X X X X X X X Great Bridge (C) X X X X X X X Churchland (P) X X X X X X X King s Fork High (S) X X X X X Lakeland (S) X X X X Nansemond River (S) X X X VB=Virginia Beach; N=Norfolk; P=Portsmouth; C=Chesapeake; S=Suffolk SAT Reasoning Test $52.50 SAT Subject Test Basic Fee: $26.00 Late Fee $28.00 Language $26 Test Date Change $28.00 Other $16 Test Center Change $28.00 Standby Testing $46 ****These Test Centers May Not Be Accurate Due to College Board s Late Posting**** 28 This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA This document may not be reproduced without written permission from, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk VA

30 College Register for the SAT Online If you have an address and a credit card, you can register online! If you are registering with a fee waiver, please see your Advisor for more information. You will need a credit card to register online. Create an online account 1. Go to 2. Click on Register Now 3. Click on Sign Up to choose a User Name and Password 4. Continue using the same account throughout your college selection process 5. Use your online account to register for the SAT Reasoning Test or SAT Subject tests (Subject Tests are not required for most colleges) 6. Choose which test, what date, and which test center you want 7. Select a photo that you would like to have placed on your registration ticket 8. Choose colleges to receive your score reports (the first four reports are free) 9. Print your admission ticket Once you have an online account, you can: View your scores once they become available See and print your essay results Get help finding, applying, and paying for college Receive reminders Please be sure to include your High School Code (CEEB Code) listed on the reverse side of this page. If you do not include this when you register,, your scores will not be sent to your high school and will not be included on your high school transcript. Compiled from College Board publications This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

31 College Chesapeake Deep Creek High School Grassfield High School Great Bridge High School Hickory High School Indian River High School Oscar F. Smith High School Western Branch High School High School (CEEB) Codes Norfolk Booker T. Washington High School Granby High School Lake Taylor High School Maury High School Norview High School Portsmouth Churchland High School I.C. Norcom High School Woodrow Wilson High School Suffolk Lakeland High School Nansemond River High School Kings Fork High School Virginia Beach Bayside High School Green Run High School Floyd E. Kellam High School Frank W. Cox High School First Colonial High School Kempsville High School Landstown High School Ocean Lakes High School Princess Anne High School Salem High School Tallwood High School This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

32 College ACT ACT Testing Schedule Registration Deadlines Regular Aug. 8 Sept. 19 Nov. 7 Jan. 9 Mar. 13 May 8 Late Aug. 9 Sept 22 Sept. 20 Oct. 3 Nov Jan Mar May 9-22 Test Dates Sept. 13 Oct. 25 Dec. 13 Feb. 7 April 18 June 13 Locations Code Oscar Smith (C) Deep Creek (C) X X X X X X X X X BTW High (N) X X X X X Norfolk Academy (N) Lakeland High (S) First Colonial (VB) Princess Anne High (VB) X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X C=Chesapeake; N=Norfolk; S=Suffolk; VB=Virginia Beach ACT Only $38.00 ACT + Writing $54.50 Late Fee $24 Standby Testing $47 Test Date Change $22 Test Center Change $23 This document may not be reproduced without written permission from, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk VA This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA

33 College Register for the ACT Online You will need a credit card to register for the ACT Online. If you are eligible for a fee waiver, please see your Advisor. Go to Click on Sign Up/Log-In Click Create Account You will be asked if you have registered for the ACT previously and you will be asked if you have taken the ACT previously. You will be asked to complete your first name, last name, date of birth, social security number and . You will then create a User ID and Password. Follow the instructions to complete your demographic information. Find your high school code listed on the opposite page of this handbook or use the search tool. Select Register Now. You will be prompted to submit a photo of yourself for identification purposes. After payment has been made be sure to print out the confirmation and admission ticket. 32 This document may not be reproduced without written permission from Access, 7300 Newport Avenue, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA