The college application process has changed in the past two decades. Gone are the days of paper applications and colleges using only student GPA and test scores for admission. College applications have come a long way. So how can a parent help support their child in the college application process?
Understand that college will evaluate students using a holistic approach. They will use all of the following criteria to aid them in deciding if each student is a good fit:
GPA (This can be found at the top of your child's transcript): The Grade Point Average is the culmination of each of their course grades from the beginning of 9th grade through the end of 11th grade.
SAT/ACT: These are college entrance exams. We offer the SAT in-school on April 25th for current 11th grade students (22-23 schoolyear) and on October 12th for current seniors.
Extra-curricular activities and volunteer work: Colleges want to see that students get involved with 2-3 outside of school activities and stick with them throughout high school. The goal is to choose things they enjoy and hopefully can gain a leadership position by senior year (like President of the Spanish Club for instance). These activities do not have to be school related. Some examples are: Crew, Dance, Martial Arts, Skateboarding, Coding, Cooking, Reading, Chess Club, National Honor Society, Student Council...
College Essay: This is the chance for a student to allow their personality to shine in the application. You can support your student by checking their essay for grammar and minor suggestions, but please allow it to remain in the student's voice.
Letters of Recommendation: They should choose two academic teachers from 11th grade and ask them to write letters of recommendation. Students should give each recommender a copy of a completed senior recommendation form (brag-sheet). They should be sure to give one to their school counselor as well, if their colleges require a letter from them. Please be sure to give recommenders at least 10 business days to complete the letter.
Also know where to find resources. The "Information" tab on this website has a link under "C" for colleges with access to all the information listed above. There is also a link just for parents and the main questions you may have. Also, feel free to reach out to your School Counselor. We are happy to help!
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