College is almost here…

1. Are you ready? College is almost here…

3. Research and visit! • Career Choices • Degree Options • Size of the College • Distance from Home • Cost of Attendance • Services and Activities • Your college choice should fit most of your requirements! Where do I start right now?

4. A career interest finder to show what careers match up with certain character traits: http://career.missouri.edu/students/majors-careers/skills-interests/career-interest-game/http://www.high-school.devry.edu/personality-profile/questions.htm A tool to help find colleges that fit your needs: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search?navid=gh-cs Resources to help narrow the list

5. Where are the applications? www.clevelandstatecc.eduwww.utc.eduhttp://www.ttcathens.edu/ttca-application How much information do I need to provide? How much does it cost? The amount of the application fees vary from $10 to $100. Don’t let these surprise you. Save now so you can apply to all your desired schools. Next year: The College Application

6. College Essays • Does every application require one? • Who should proofread it? • Tip: Do not overly exceed the word limit for the essays. They put a maximum for a reason; the admission team wants to see if you can make your point concisely and thoroughly. The College Application

7. The Common Applicationwww.commonapp.org • An application that is used by over 450 colleges nationwide • Some TN schools that accept it are: Belmont University, Lipscomb University, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and Vanderbilt University • Only complete one Common Application and send it to any of the schools that accept it The College Application

8. This includes the many other items and documents colleges require with an application • HS transcript—a current one and a final graduation • ACT/SAT scores—send them all; some schools SUPERSCORE • Immunization Records—check with your healthcare provider or the health department; an immunization or two may be required • Other college-specific documentation The Admission Checklist

9. Checklist Tip • Always read the letters and emails from the schools to which you have applied. Typically, the school will update you on outstanding admission materials, and if you throw them away or delete them you may miss a deadline. The Admission Checklist

10. Application deadlines differ at each school. Some are very early (UTK is Dec. 1) while others have rolling admission. General Rule: Complete and turn in all admission documentation by May 1st; this is the National Decision Deadline Paying your deposit: Your deposit secures your spot at your chosen college. The amounts of this deposit vary, and there is typically a deadline. (Not all schools require a deposit) Admission Deadlines

11. Consider your options and interests! • Most institutions offer internal scholarships which typically require a separate application. CSCC offers substantial institutional scholarships, and the deadline is March 1st. The applications are found online at the Financial Aid page. • Ask your admission counselor if you’re not sure. Don’t miss out because you never researched funding or activities. (Ex. athletic tryout dates, housing, and Honors programs) Deadlines

12. Don’t procrastinate! • Start researching and visiting schools NOW! • Be aware of your school’s deadlines so you don’t miss out. Colleges are not sympathetic to forgetful students. • Use your college days. Every college offers a campus visit or open house day. Bring your family and/or friends along to help you make the right decision. Overview

13. Complete the entire admission process for at least 2 different schools. Circumstances change, so always have a back-up plan. Finish everything by May so you can enjoy your summer! Overview

14. Questions?