October Newsletter

Resources/Reminders:

• CalState Application: https://www.calstate.edu/apply
• UC Application: https://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/apply-now.html
• Common App (for private CA & out of state universities): https://www.commonapp.org/
• Community College Applications for Fall 2023 should be open by January 2023, depends on the community college, check their websites for more information.

9th-graders

• College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.

• Four-Year Course Planner: Make sure you stay on track for both high school and college requirements by filling out this planner each semester. Review the graduation requirements for each subject area and the different course levels offered. The more selective the college, the more it will want to see you go above and beyond the minimum requirements.

• Big 5 Personality Assessment: Learn more about your strengths, challenges, and communication and learning styles.

• Build healthy routines: Prioritize sleep, healthy food choices and exercise. Stronger physical health = stronger mental health, increased focus and better decision-making skills.

10th-graders

• College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.

• YouScience Aptitudes Test: What are you good at? Take this online assessment, which uses a combination of personality, interest, and aptitudes testing to help you explore careers that might be a good fit. Or, if your counseling office uses Naviance, try the Do What You Are assessment.

• Virtual college tours: Curious about what college is all about, but not feeling ready for an in-person visit? Have fun searching through these student-driven virtual college tours.

11th-graders

• PSAT: PSAT day is Wednesday, October 12th. The PSAT is being offered to 11th grade students. The cost is $20.00 or $5.oo with a fee waiver. Tests can be purchased at the student back on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays through Friday, September 30th. Contact the Counseling Office if you have more questions.

• How to create a college list (with tracking spreadsheet): Use this guide and organizing tool to begin building a list of schools that you’re excited about.

• How to research schools without visiting a campus: You don’t need to step on a college campus to begin researching schools. Here are four resources that will show you how.

• Going test optional: What is it? Confused about whether or not test scores matter? Here’s an overview of what you need to know.

• FairTest: Looking for a comprehensive list of colleges and universities with test-optional admission policies? Here you go.

• Dealing with learning differences? Researching the available support services and programs will be a critical part of your list building. Learn the differences between accommodations in high school and services offered at colleges.

12th-graders

• How to Decide Whether to Apply Early Decision or Early Action: Double-check your ED/EA deadlines—some fall as early as October 15th. Note that some school-based scholarships require that you apply by the early deadline.

• University of California and CSU: For those of you applying to the UC and CSU systems, the applications are due on November 30th.

• FAFSA + CSS PROFILE: Start filling out these forms to make sure to meet the deadlines set by the colleges on your list.

• College Application Fee Waivers: Find out if you qualify for fee waivers and, if so, how to get them.

• Resource guide for low-income students or those experiencing homelessness: Learn more about college costs, financial aid, and available services.

• Supplemental essay responses: If you’re applying to schools that require additional essays beyond the main personal statement, this is a must-read.

• Interview with colleges that offer them: Depending on the school, you can either sign up on its website or respond to an invitation it sends via email.

• Demonstrated interest: Remember that it’s important to let the colleges on your list know that you’re really interested in attending their schools. Keep connecting with college representatives when they visit your school, your community, or via virtual sessions online.

• Research scholarships: Continue to research scholarship opportunities, making special note of requirements and deadlines.

• Cal State LA
• Pomona College

Potential Upcoming Trips (TBD):

• UCR
• UCLA
• CSUN
• CSUF
• USC
• ELAC
  
• Rio Hondo