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COLLEGE PLANNER
College Planning PowerPoint Presentation (PDF)
POST-SECONDARY PLANNER
CLASS OF 2013
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction------------------------------------------------------------------- Page 2
Basics of the College Admissions Process----------------------------- Page 4
College Application Process---------------------------------------------- Page 5
College Planning Calendar----------------------------------------------- Page 6
College Planning Process
Criteria to Compare and Select Colleges-------------------------- Page 8
Tips for a Campus Visit--------------------------------------------- Page 9
The Interview--------------------------------------------------------- Page 10
Testing
ACT Description and dates----------------------------------------- Page 11
SAT Description and dates----------------------------------------- Page 12
Advanced Placement Exam information--------------------------- Page 13
College Admissions Information
State Universities in Illinois: Admission Requirements-------- Page 14
Other Midwest Colleges-------------------------------------------- Page 17
Vocational and Technical Schools--------------------------------- Page 20
Selective Colleges & Universities: Admission Information--- Page 22
College Terminology: Terms You Should Know---------------- Page 23
Helpful Internet Sites--------------------------------------------------------- Page 24
INTRODUCTION
WHERE DO I BEGIN?
As a junior in high school, you are at an important decision making point in your life. In any decision-making process, gathering information is a key step. This guide has been written to provide you with an overview of the process of college exploration, selection, and admission.
One of the most important factors in preparing for college selection is to begin early. This is not the kind of process you begin in the senior year. You do not want to make a quick decision about an expensive and long-term commitment only to discover that you made an unwise choice based on a minimum amount of information.
Because the process of selecting a college is very personal, it must begin with self-reflection. You must consider your goals, strengths, weaknesses, and reasons for going to college; then consider the various criteria to use in making a college choice.
When you are thinking about yourself, be realistic. Dream, but do so with both feet on the ground. Include parents or others close to you as you contemplate the future. Keep in mind, however, that it is your future, and that you must make the eventual decisions.
At Glenbard South, the Guidance Department's primary goal is to assist students with educational, personal, and vocational concerns. The decision to attend college or enter the work force requires a great deal of preparation. Consult with your counselor, teachers and parents. Use the material resources of the Guidance Office, Career Resource Center and the Learning Resource Center. Ask questions. Get facts. Don't guess!
During your first conference to discuss colleges with your counselor, you should answer the following questions:
1. What type of college would you attend? State University? Liberal Arts? Business? Engineering? Community College? Technical School? Art School?
2. What is your tentative choice of major? Do not worry if you are unsure about
a major, but give the matter some thought.
3. In what geographical area do you want to attend college? What will be the distance from your home?
4. Do you want to attend a small college or a large university? A two-year or a four-year program? Co-educational or single sex institution?
5. In what environment do you want your college? Urban? Rural? Suburban?
What is the nearest major city? Is there access to cultural and social opportunities?
6. Will you need financial aid in order to meet the costs? How much money are you and your family able to afford for college?
Colleges and technical schools publish a vast amount of literature from which you can gain valuable information. College websites and college publications are an excellent resource for your initial screening. During the junior year, you should
ï explore and study all available college material, printed or online
ï read the materials or websites thoroughly
ï save materials that are of interest to you
ï summarize the information in a notebook or database
ï make a list of colleges, which you are considering, in order of priority
ï begin visiting with college representatives
ï make plans to visit the colleges you are considering.
Visits to college campuses, and interviews with admissions officials will broaden your perspective and provide new insights into college life. THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR A VISIT TO A COLLEGE AS A MEANS OF ASSESSING THE SCHOOL. With the information you have gained from literature, the Internet and college visits, you'll approach the senior year with an ever-narrowing focus on the ultimate list.
Senior year is the time for decision making in the application process. We hope this planning guide will aid you in finding the right program to help you prepare for your future.
Naviance
We are pleased to introduce Family Connection from Naviance, a Web-based service designed especially for students and families. Family Connection is a comprehensive website that one can use to assist in making informed decisions about your plans after high school. Each student has access to Naviance by way of the Glenbard South Guidance Web page. Students have created a password to access the system. If they have forgotten their password do the following:
(FirstName_Last Name_ ID Number@glenbard.org) and click “Resend Password.”
If there are any questions, please contact the guidance department.
BASICS OF THE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS PROCESS
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Student Responsibility
1. Begin the exploration and selection process early.
2. Read the Post High School Planner, use resource center for catalogs, brochures, etc.
3. Sign up on Naviance for opportunities to meet with college
representatives when they visit our school.
4. Request transcripts to be sent to the colleges to which you have applied, usually in late September or October.
Allow 2-4 weeks for processing.
5. Make and keep copies of all applications you send out.
6. Visit the colleges before making your final decision.
7. Submit financial aid forms online in January or February.
Parent Responsibility
1. Discuss future plans, including the financial picture and any restrictions, with your son or daughter early in the selection process.
2. Most applications should be submitted in late September, October or early November. Be aware of deadlines.
3. Check release of transcript box on parent PowerSchool account..
4. Request transcripts to be sent 2-4 weeks prior to the due date.
5. Complete your portion of the application (signature, checks,
verification of residency, etc.)
6. Keep records of everything.
7. Fill out financial aid forms and submit them in January or February.
8. Call your childís high school counselor if you have questions.
9. Check the Guidance website for college and scholarship bulletins or ask your son or daughter about other information distributed in school.
Guidance Office Responsibility
1. Provide information regarding admissions.
2. Provide opportunities to learn about various colleges.
3. Provide information listing visitations, special events, open houses, and scholarships.
4. Provide certain applications and forms:
a. for state colleges and universities of Illinois and the College of DuPage.
b. SAT and ACT registration forms.
c. Financial aid forms.
d. Special scholarship applications.
5. Prepare transcripts and recommendations to be sent to colleges.
6. Send midyear and final grade reports to colleges, when requested.
COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
Applying to college is a multi-step process. The following steps will help guide you through the application process smoothly.
1. Check college websites to find applications online. Read instructions carefully to check for deadlines and information required.
2. Most applications ask for the Glenbard South High School code (142073)
Many applications require an application fee ranging from $15.00 to $60.00.
3. A transcript of high school grades is required and must be submitted directly from the high school. Check release of transcript box on parent PowerSchool account. A $3.00 fee is charged for each transcript (whether for college or scholarship applications). This fee also covers postage for the application.
4. To meet college admission deadlines and properly process your application, give your transcript requests to your counselor at least 10 days before you want them mailed. Allow 3-4 weeks for the counselorís portion if a recommendation is required. Make sure you include a large (9 x 12”) envelope, and $3.00 fee.
REQUESTING A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
Some colleges will request that your counselor and one or two of your teachers write a recommendation. It is important that you:
1. Select a teacher who knows you well and will write a positive recommendation.
You may want to discuss this selection with your counselor.
2. Discuss the recommendation with the teacher well in advance of the due date (4 weeks if possible). In addition, be sure to give the teacher an autobiographical sketch of you during high school, listing activities and other information.
3. In order for your counselor to write the best recommendation possible, it is essential that a senior information sheet be filled out, listing activities and other information. A profile or resume generated by the student is also acceptable.
COLLEGE PLANNING CALENDAR
JUNIOR YEAR
SPRING
____ Take the ACT and/or SAT.
____ Begin to narrow your college choices to six or fewer.
____ Discuss your preliminary college choices with your counselor.
____ Continue to meet with college representatives.
____ Visit college campuses, with parents if possible. Talk with graduates and/or current students at those colleges under consideration.
____ Consider which teachers or other adults to ask for college recommendations.
SUMMER
____ Save money from summer job to use for college expenses.
____ Continue to visit those college campuses on your preliminary list.
____ Schedule an appointment with the admissions office and request a tour of the campus.
SENIOR YEAR
FALL
____ Maintain or improve grades. Colleges look unfavorably on falling grades.
____ Finalize the list of colleges to which you want to apply (usually 3 to 6 schools). Your selections should include at least one that definitely will accept you.
____ Register for the September or October test dates for ACT or SAT.
____ Continue to attend college representative sessions.
____ Apply online.
____ Check to see if the colleges to which you are applying require SAT Subject Tests.
___ Request that transcripts be sent to colleges. Ten school days should be allowed for completion by counselor and registrar. Twenty school days are needed for applications needing recommendations.
____ Check for early application deadlines. ISU, NIU and EIU applications are due by November 15, University of Illinois by Nov. 1.
____ Look for scholarship and financial aid information on collegeís website and/or on Naviance.
____ Encourage your parents to attend College & Financial Aid Night.
WINTER
____ Check colleges' instructions to make sure you have done everything necessary for admission and for financial aid. Download counselor page if necessary from common app or other colleges
____ Apply for campus housing early.
____ Submit Financial Aid Forms between January 1 and March 1.
____ Request that your mid-year grades be sent to the colleges that require them.
____ Ask your counselor or Career Resource Center director about summer jobs or summer programs for enrichment or college preparation.
SPRING
____ Register for Advanced Placement Exams, if appropriate, in March.
____ As college admission decisions arrive, revisit schools as needed to make comparisons.
____ Keep track of acceptances, rejections, and awards of financial aid.
____ Make your college choice and send a deposit. MAY 1ST IS THE NATIONAL REPLY DATE TO INFORM A COLLEGE YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. MEET THE DEADLINE OR YOU MAY LOSE THE ACCEPTANCE YOU HAVE EARNED.
____ If you are not accepted by the school of your choice, consider trying again for mid-year acceptance at the same school, or apply to a community college.
____ Reply promptly to colleges to notify them of your decision.
____ Take Advanced Placement Exams in May if applicable.
____ Request that your final transcript be sent to the college you will attend, as well as to the NCAA Clearinghouse, if applicable.
Records to Keep: Canceled checks or money orders, copies of all correspondence sent to or received from colleges, college entrance test score reports, and transcript of grades.
CRITERIA TO COMPARE AND SELECT COLLEGES
Student Enrollment
What is the total enrollment?
What is the percentage of undergraduate students enrollment to the total enrollment?
How many students are expected in the freshman class?
What percentage of freshmen graduate in four years? Five years?
What percentage of students return for the sophomore year?
Background Information
What percentage of the population is men and what percentage is women?
What percentage of the student body lives on campus? What percentage commutes daily?
What is the ethnic diversity of the student body?
What is the geographic background of the students?
Location and Surroundings
What is the geographic region?
How far is this school from home?
What are the transportation costs?
Is public transportation readily available and conveniently located?
Setting
Is the school in an urban, suburban or rural area?
If rural, how far is the nearest sizable city?
What recreational opportunities are available?
What cultural activities are available?
What are the climatic conditions? Are these acceptable?
Facilities
What is the quality of the library? Does it meet the needs of all academic majors?
What are the computer labs like?
What laboratory facilities are available?
Are there art studios and music practice rooms?
What facilities are available in the Student Center?
What kinds of sports activities and clubs are available?
College Type and Philosophy
Is the school a two year or four year institution?
Is the school owned and governed by the state, a church, or a private organization?
What is the major educational purpose of the school? (e.g. liberal arts, pre-professional, fine arts programs, technical, etc.)
What is the educational philosophy of the institution? Is it traditional, scholarly, career oriented?
How is the school calendar designed? Semester, quarter, trimester module?
TIPS FOR A CAMPUS VISIT
A campus visit is highly recommended. Call the admission office three to four weeks ahead for an appointment. Open House dates are usually available on college websites. Before you visit the campus, consider some of the options below. It is also important to develop a list of questions and plan specific activities in order to accomplish your goals.
ï Meet with an admissions officer.
ï Verify admission requirements (tests and high school preparation).
ï Discuss your chances for success.
ï Obtain a school calendar and a catalog, if you don't already have them.
ï Determine college costs.
ï Ask about financial aid opportunities, as well as deadlines, forms required, etc.
ï Meet with faculty in the academic area of interest to you.
ï Ask questions about academic requirements/offerings.
ï Attend a class to get an idea of typical size, teaching style, academic atmosphere.
ï Ask about the placement record for graduates in the field you might study.
ï Identify career planning services for undergraduates.
ï Tour the campus. (Be sure to check out the dorms, dining hall, library, etc.)
ï Talk to students about the general academic environment and the study commitment necessary for success.
ï Find out what student activities (clubs, organizations, intramurals, etc.) are available.
ï Inquire about campus life and social activities.
ï Investigate transportation options.
Make up a list of questions before you visit. Here are some sample questions to get you started.
1. How many instructors are there in the department of my major area of study?
2. What is the faculty to student ratio?
3. Is tutoring available from faculty? Do you have a special study skills center or
a learning resource center?
4. What is the placement rate of graduates into the job market in your major?
5. Do you have an honors program?
6. How many housing options are available to students? What are the options?
How many students are housed per room?
7. Is there a core curriculum? If so, what is it?
8. Are student evaluations of teachers publicly available?
9. What percentage of class hours are taught by full-time faculty?
10. What makes this college's educational philosophy different?
11. What percentage of entering freshmen graduate in four years?
12. Are students required to take a competency exam before graduation?
13. What cultural and recreational opportunities are available on campus?
14. What types of financial aid are available?
15. Can you describe the atmosphere/personality of the campus?
16. Do you have career planning and counseling services?
17. What kind of orientation program is offered to students?
18. What are some unique features of the institution?
19. What are your facilities for computer use? Are all dorms wired?
20. What is the hottest issue in local campus politics?
21. Any chances of attending a class after the tour?
THE INTERVIEW
The importance of a campus interview varies from college to college. Highly competitive schools, in general, consider this interview very important. Your presence on the campus and your readiness to talk about yourself and your college plans are important indicators of your serious interest in the college. The interview is, therefore, an opportunity for the college and you to get to know each other better. So, take the interview seriously, but don't overrate its importance. Here are some suggestions for the college interview:
1. Be on time for your appointment.
2. Dress neatly. (A coat and tie or a dress are not necessarily required
but do try to make a positive impression.)
3. Be well prepared. Read the college catalog prior to your interview
and prepare questions based on what you read.
4. Answer questions to the best of your knowledge and ability, do not be
afraid to admit you don't know something.
5. Be ready to volunteer information--know your scores, rank in class,
latest grades, and what courses you are taking in high school.
6. Be yourself--do not pretend to be something or someone you are not.
7. Above all, relax! Interviews are meant to be informative to both
parties.
The Alumni Interview
A few colleges have developed alumni networks throughout the nation and use their
well-organized alumni groups as interviewers of applicants. Several colleges require interviews regardless of whether or not you have had a campus interview. Check with the College Admissions Office or your counselor to determine whether or not an alumni interview is required.
COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS
ALL JR STUDENTS WILL TAKE THE ACT AS PART OF
THE PRAIRIE STATE EXAM IN APRIL
A. AMERICAN COLLEGE TESTING PROGRAM (ACT)
Purpose: The ACT is used for admissions purposes at colleges nationwide and is also often used for placement purposes at junior colleges.
Description: This test measures skills and abilities rather than specific content of subject matter. It covers English, Mathematics, Reading, Science Reasoning, and Writing.
2. The Mathematics Usage Test is a 60 item, 60-minute, multiple-choice test designed to assess the mathematical skills students have typically acquired in courses taken through grade 11.
3. The Reading Test is a 40-item, 35-minute test that measures your reading comprehension.
4. The Science Reasoning Test is a 40-item, 35-minute test that measures the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills required in the natural sciences.
When: Test Date Registration Deadline
February 9, 2013 January 11, 2013
April 13, 2013 March 8, 2013
June 8, 2013 May 3, 2013
Glenbard South will be a test center for the April 13 test date.
Cost: $35.00 Basic Assessment $50.00 With Writing Test
Registration: Register online at www.actstudent.org
College Boards are often listed as CEEB or College Entrance Examination Boards
Purpose: The SAT is used as part of the admissions requirements to many colleges. It may be required also as a scholarship-qualifying test
by some schools or donors.
Description:
When: Test Date Registration Deadline
May 5, 2012 April 6, 2012
June 2, 2012 May 8, 2012
Test dates in October, November and December - TBA
Note: If you are interested in a highly competitive selective college, you should take the SAT in May or June and the Achievement tests fall of the senior year.
Where: Glenbard South High School will not be a test center for the SAT.
Cost: SAT I - $49.00
SAT II (Subject Tests) -Approx. $33.00-66.00 for three tests
Registration: Register online at www.collegeboard.com
* For both the SAT and ACT, students with disabilities should refer to the testing website and contact their counselor for more information about accommodations.
C. ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMINATIONS
Description: Exams are three hours in length, consisting of both essay and
objective type questions. The 2010 AP Examinations--or, in Studio
Art, portfolio evaluations--offer 35 tests in 25 disciplines:
Art History German Language
Studio Art Portfolio Gov't & Politics ñ Comparative
Biology Govít & Politics ñ U.S.
Calculus AB Human Geography
Calculus BC Italian Language
Chemistry Japanese Lang. & Culture
Chinese Lang. & Culture Latin Literature
Computer Science A Latin: Vergil
Computer Science B Music Theory
Macroeconomics Physics B
Microeconomics Physics C
English Language Psychology
English Literature Spanish Language
Environmental Science Spanish Literature
European History Statistics
French Language U.S. History
French Literature World History
Purpose: Over 800 institutions grant a year's advanced standing for qualifying grades on three or more AP Examinations. Taking Advanced Placement Examinations may benefit you in the following ways:
1. Your college or university may exempt you from beginning courses
and permit you to elect higher-level courses in certain fields.
2. You may be able to explore undergraduate subject areas that
otherwise would not be available to you.
3. You may be eligible for honors and other special programs not
open to students who have not been given AP recognition.
4. Your college may grant academic credit for your examinations and
you will have fewer requirements to complete for graduation.
5. You may save time and money by being granted a year of credit
and sophomore standing for three or four AP Examinations.
When: May 7 through May 18, 2012
Where: Glenbard South High School
Cost: $87 for each examination taken
Registration: Registration is handled by the bookkeeper. Registration deadline is March 16, 2012.
STATE UNIVERSITIES IN ILLINOIS
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
The following guidelines were used for students that applied for admission to our state universities for the fall of 2011. Due to fluctuations in state funding and size of incoming freshman college classes, admission to state universities can be competitive and sometimes closes in late fall or early winter. Therefore, we highly recommend that students apply for admission to our state universities before November 1, 2011 for the school year 2011-2012.
Admission to our state universities is based upon high school course work completed in addition to test scores and class rank. The specific high school course requirements for admission to a four year college are as listed below. These guidelines should be viewed as minimum recommendations. These requirements may vary slightly from one college to another. Your counselor can provide specific information about each institution's high school course requirements. Up to date information is also available for most colleges and universities through the Internet.
English: 4 years, with an emphasis on written and oral communication.
Social Studies: 3 years, one year must be U.S. History.
Science: 3 years, one must be a laboratory science.
Mathematics: 3 years, with at least one year of algebra, geometry,
and a third year of college preparatory mathematics.
Other: 2 years, to be selected from: foreign language,
music, art, and vocational education.
EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Charleston, IL 61920
Undergraduate Enrollment 10,225 Admissions Office 217-581-2223
Priority Filing Date: November 15 Suburban Office 847-776-7626
Website: www.eiu.edu Application Fee: $30.00
Applicants will be considered for admission based on high school college preparatory course work, G.P.A., grade trends, class rank, ACT or SAT scores, personal statement and, in some cases, academic letters of recommendation. Gateway alternative admission for underrepresented and/or disadvantaged students:
ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY Normal, IL 61761-2200
Undergraduate Enrollment 18,254 Admissions Office 800-366-2478
Website: www.IllinoisState.edu or 309-438-2181
Typical Freshman Admitted: Application Fee $40.00
Mid 50% ACT range Mean GPA
22-27 3.5/4.00 scale
November 15 priority filing date. A personal statement is now required. Applicants who do not meet regular admissions requirements may initiate individual reviews of their application by providing additional information about extenuating circumstances.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY DeKalb, IL 60115
Undergraduate Enrollment 17,886 Admissions Office 815-753-0446
Priority filing date: November 15
Website: www.niu.edu Application fee $30.00
Admission Requirements:
Class Rank ACT GPA
Upper 1/2 19 2.75/4.00 scale
Between 34-49% 23 2.50/4.00 scale
NORTHEASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Chicago, IL 60625
Undergraduate Enrollment 9,498 Admissions Office 773-442-4000
Website: www.neiu.edu Application fee: $25.00
Admission Requirements:
Class Rank ACT
Top 1/2 or 19
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY-CAR Carbondale, IL 62901
Undergraduate Enrollment 15.137 Admission Service 618-536-4405
Website: www.siuc.edu Office of Admissions Mail Code 4701
Admission Requirements: Application Fee $30.00
Admission is based primarily on high school rank, ACT composite score, and high school subject pattern. In addition, studentsí files are reviewed for ACT sub scores, high school GPA, improvements in GPA from year to year, letters of recommendation, participation in service or extracurricular activities and extenuating circumstances. Academically, students achieving as ACT composite of 23 or a high school GPA of 3.0/4.0 in core courses with be automatically admitted. All other applicants will be reviewed holistically.
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY-EDW Edwardsville, IL 62026
Undergraduate Enrollment 11,305 Admissions Office 618-650-3705
Priority filing date: December 1 Application fee: $30.00
Website: www.siue.edu
Freshman Class Profile:
ACT Average ñ 22.5 (middle 50% range 20-25)
High School Percentile Rank ñ 72% rank within top 50% of high school class.
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO P.O. Box 5220, Chicago, IL 60680
Undergraduate Enrollment 16,790 Office of Admission 312-996-4350
Website: www.uic.edu/depts/oar Application fee $40.00
Admission Requirements: Students must satisfy one of the high school subject pattern requirements - see catalog. The middle 50% range of ACT scores and class rank combination are as follows:
ACT Class Percentile Rank
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences 21-27 68th-89th
College of Architecture & Arts 21-26 64th-86th
College of Business Administration 22-26 68th-86th
College of Engineering 25-29 68th-89th
College of Applied Health Sciences 24-28 82nd-95th
College of Education 20-24 59th -84th
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS Urbana, IL 61801
at Urbana-Champaign Admissions Office 217-333-0302
Undergraduate Enrollment 31.252 Application fee: $40.00
Website: www.illinois.edu
Admission Requirements: Best-qualified applicants accepted as space permits. Eligibility determined by required high school subject pattern, high school class rank, and ACT composite or SAT total score. Requirements vary from college to college and are adjusted each year. See application packet.
Priority Filing Deadline: November 1
The middle 50% of freshmen admitted to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for the fall of 2011 had ACT scores and class ranks which fell into the following ranges:
College ACT score range Class rank range
Liberal Arts & Sciences 27-32 86th-97th
Business 28-32 89th-97th
Engineering 30-34 90th-98th
Education 25-29 78th-91st
College of Media 26-30 79th-92nd
Division of General Studies 25-30 79th-92nd
Fine & Applied Arts 26-30 76th-94th
Agriculture, Consumer & 25-30 79th-95th
Environmental Sciences
Applied Health Sciences 25-29 82nd-94th
Aviation 25-30 72nd-90th
Apply for housing immediately after acceptance.
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT SPRINGFIELD Springfield, IL 62703-5407
Undergraduate Enrollment 3.197 Admissions Office 217-206-4847
Website: www.uis.edu Application Fee: $40.00
Admission Requirements: UIS admits a freshman class of approximately 300 students. An admissions committee will review applicants' ACT/SAT scores, class rank, personal essay and letters of recommendation.
WESTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Macomb, IL 61455-1390
Undergraduate Enrollment 9.407 Admissions Office 309-298-3157
Website: www.wiu.edu Application Fee: $30.00 paper, $25.00 online
Admission Requirements:
ACT SAT Min HS GPA
20 920 2.50/4.0 scale
A higher GPA will offset a lower ACT score and vice versa. Class rank is not considered.
Applicants who do not meet regular admission requirements may be reviewed for alternative admission. ACT of 16 and G.P.A. of 2.2 (4.0 scale) are minimums accepted, and applicants must submit a letter of appeal and two letters of recommendation.
ADMISSION AT OTHER MIDWEST COLLEGES
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY Muncie, IN 47306-1022
Undergraduate Enrollment 17,627 Admission Office 765-285-8300
Website: bsu.edu Application fee: $40.00
Admission Requirements: College preparatory program recommended including four years of English and 3-4 years each of mathematics, social studies, science and 3 years of foreign language.
Middle 50% of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 19 and 25.
INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY Terre Haute, IN 47809-9989
Undergraduate Enrollment 8,345 Admission Office 812-237-2121
Website: indstate.edu Application fee: $25.00
Admission Requirement:College preparatory program recommended including four years of English, and 3 years each of mathematics, social studies and science, 1 year of foreign language, 1 year of another academic elective. Interview recommended for applicants in lower half of class.
Middle 50% of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 16 and 22.
INDIANA UNIVERSITY Bloomington, IN 47405-1106
Undergraduate Enrollment 29,258 Admission Office 812-855-0661
Website: iub.edu Application fee: $55.00
Admission Requirement: Completion of 16 to 19 credits in academic courses including English 4 yrs., math 3-4, social studies 2-3, science 2-3, foreign language 3, and academic electives 4. Above average grades in academic courses. Out of state students should take 4 academic courses in senior year. Rank in top third of class desirable.
Middle 50% of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 25 and 30
PURDUE UNIVERSITY West Lafayette, IN 47907-2050
Undergraduate Enrollment 31,037 Admission Office 765-494-1776
Website: purdue.edu Application fee: $30.00
Admission Requirement:
Strong college preparatory program.
Above average grades in academic courses.
Middle 50% or enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 24 and 30.
Middle 50% high school GPA range 3.3-4.0 on a 4-point scale
Starting in 2011. Students must have 8 semesters of college-prep math
IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY Ames, IA 50011-2011
Undergraduate Enrollment 20,035 Admission Office 515-294-5836
Website: iastate.edu Application fee: $40.00
Admission Requirement:
All Colleges New Regent Admission Index (RAI): 2 x ACT Composite score, + 1 x high school percentile rank, + 20 x high school GPA, + 5 x number of high school core courses. Out of state students should have RAI score of 245. Applicants with lower scores may be considered on an individual basis.
(Middle 50% of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 22 and 27.)
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA Iowa City, IA 52242
Undergraduate Enrollment 19,915 Admission Office 319-335-3847
Website: uiowa.edu Application fee: $40.00
Admission Requirement:
All Colleges (except Engineering)ñ New Regent Admission Index (RAI): 2 x ACT Composite score, + 1 x high school percentile rank, + 20 x high school GPA, + 5 x number of high school core courses. Out of state students should have RAI score of 255. Applicants with lower scores may be considered on an individual basis.
(Middle 50% of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 23 and 27.)
College of Engineering - ACT composite and math score of 25, rank in top 30% of class.
Involvement in extracurricular activities.
MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY East Lansing, MI 48824-1046
Undergraduate Enrollment 35,521 Admission Office 517-355-8332
Website: msu.edu Application fee: $50.00
Admission Requirement:
Strong college preparatory program.
Four years of English, 3 each of math and social science, 2 of science and foreign language.
Middle 50 % of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 23 and 28.
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1316
Undergraduate Enrollment 25,422 Admission Office 734-764-7433
Website: umich.edu Application fee: $65.00
Admission Requirement:
Strong college preparatory program, 18 academic units recommended.
English 4 years, math 3-4, social studies 4, science 3-4, foreign language 2-4 plus other academic electives. AP, honors and accelerated courses also recommended.
Middle 50% of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 29 and 33.
WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5211
Undergraduate Enrollment 19,966 Admission Office 269-387-2000
Website: wmich.edu Application fee: $35.00
Admission Requirement: College preparatory program recommended Four years of English, math 3, social studies 2-3, science 2, foreign language 2, academic electives 2.
Average high school GPA is a 3.3/4.0 and the average ACT is a 22
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON Madison, WI 53706-1481
Undergraduate Enrollment 28,462 Admission Office 608-262-3961
Website: wisc.edu Application fee: $44.00
Admission Requirement:Strong college preparatory program including a minimum of 4 yrs. of English, 3-4 yrs. each of math, social science, natural science, and 2-4 yrs. of a foreign language.
Middle 50 % of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 27 and 29.
Most students have an academic GPA between a 3.5 and a 3.9, and a class rank in the 85ñ96 percentile
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-Milwaukee Milwaukee, WI 53201
Undergraduate Enrollment 24,678 Admission Office 414-219-2222
Website: uwm.edu Application fee: $44.00
Admission Requirement:
College preparatory courses required including four years of English, 3 math, 3 science, 3 social studies, 2 foreign language and four more academic electives.
Middle 50% of enrolled freshmen had ACT scores between 20 and 24.
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-Platteville Platteville, WI 53181
Undergraduate Enrollment 5,822 Admission Office 608-342-1125
Website: uwplatt.edu Application fee: $44.00
Admission Requirement:
Top 40% of graduation class or ACT of 22. Top 65% and ACT of 20 may be put on waiting list. College preparatory program required including four years of English, 3 math, 3 science, 3 social studies, 2 foreign language, and four more academic electives.
Middle 50% of freshmen had ACT composite scores between 20-25.
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-Whitewater Whitewater, WI 53190-1790
Undergraduate Enrollment 9,000 Admission Office 262-472-1440
Website: uww.edu Application fee: $44.00
Admission Requirement:
Top 40% of class. Others may qualify based on combined class rank and ACT/SAT percentile. College preparatory program required including 4 years of English, 3-4 math, 3-4 science, 3-4 social studies, and 2 foreign lang. Middle 50% of freshmen had ACT composite scores of 20-24
VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL SCHOOLS
COLLEGE OF DUPAGE Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Enrollment 26,000 Admission Office 630-942-2380
Website: cod.edu Application fee: $20.00
Open Admission. College of Dupage offers a wide range of occupational and technical two-year degree and certificate programs in additional to transfer degrees. If a program of interest is not available, COD has reciprocal programs with other community colleges.
COOKING AND HOSPITALITY INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO - Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago
Enrollment 1,047 Chicago, IL 60610-3050
Website: chefs.edu/chicago Admission Office 312-944-0882
Application fee: $150.00
Open Admission. Two-year culinary school. Application essay and interview required.
ACT or institutional tests required for placement. All levels of developmental learning provided.
DEVRY UNIVERSITY: ADDISON Addison, IL 60101-6106
Enrollment 1,436 Admission Office 630-953-2000
Website: dpg.devry.edu Application fee: $50.00
Admission Requirement:
Must have high school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate proficiency in basic college level skills through test scores and/or placement examinations. Must be at least 17 years old. New students may enter at the beginning of any semester. DeVry is a four-year university offering majors in business, computer sciences, and engineering technology.
HARRINGTON COLLEGE OF DESIGN Chicago, IL 60605
Enrollment 1,490 Admission Office 312-939-4975
Website: harrington.edu Application fee: $60.00
Open Admission. Four year design college. Personal interview, commitment to career, and GPA of 2.0/4.0 scale most important. Programs offered in graphic design and interior design.
ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF ART ñ SCHAUMBURG OR CHICAGO
Schaumburg, IL 60173 Chicago, IL 60654
Admission Office 847-619-3450 Admissions Office 312-280-3500
Website: ilis.aii.edu Website: ilic.artinstitutes.edu
Open admission. Four-year art college.
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
Chicago, IL 60602 Admission Office 312-980-9200
Enrollment 2,341 Application fee: $50.00
Website: iadtchicago.com
Open Admission. Four-year art and technical college. Applicants must meet with admissions representative and go through interview process.
ROBERT MORRIS COLLEGE Chicago, IL 60605
Enrollment 4,348 Admission Office 800-762-5960
Website: robertmorris.edu Application fee: $30.00
Open Admission. Four-year business and technical college with programs in business administration, information technology and graphic design.
UNIVERSAL TECHNICAL INSTITUTE Glendale Heights, IL
Website: univtechinstitute.com
Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Glendale Heights, Illinois is one of the nationís leading providers of automotive technical training. The school provides its industry customers with professional service technicians. Entry-level, manufacturer-specific and update training is offered in Automotive Technology, Diesel & Industrial Technology.
WESTWOOD COLLEGE ñ DUPAGE Woodridge, IL 60517
Enrollment 675 Admissions Office 630-434-8244
Application Fee: $100.00
Admission Requirement:
Interview and applicantís level of interest are most important criteria for admission. Placement test required. ACT or SAT recommended. Bachelor and/or Associate degrees offered in business, marketing & sales, construction management, criminal justice, animation, game art & design, game software development, computer network engineering, information systems security, webmaster, and interior design. CAD/Architectural drafting, graphic design & multimedia, visual communications, website design. Check Chicago Loop, OíHare Airport and River Oaks campuses for additional programs.
SELECTIVE COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
ADMISSION INFORMATION
Application to a selective college or university generally requires earlier planning and
more information than for other colleges. Selective colleges will be looking at information in the following areas: the studentís academic record, test scores, essays, school or community activities, and recommendations.
Academic Record: Selective colleges will look for a rigorous college preparatory program, which typically would include four years each of English, math, science, social science, and a foreign language. Honors and Advanced Placement courses are expected, at least in several subject areas. Check the individual schoolís requirements for details. Music courses may be acceptable in place of advanced language courses.
Class Rank: Applicants to selective colleges will often be in the top 10-20% of their high school class. A slightly lower class rank can sometimes be off set by truly exceptional academic, work or community experiences and very strong test scores.
GPA: Grade point average is often recalculated by colleges using their own system. Most selective colleges compute GPA using only the five academic college preparatory disciplines.
Standardized Tests (ACT, SAT I, SAT II): Spring of the junior year is when students should take the ACT or SAT. This allows time to retake the test(s) in the fall of the senior year if desired. Many selective colleges require the SAT Subject Tests; check each individual schoolís website to determine if required.
Essays: An interesting, well-written essay can tip the scales in an applicantís favor, or vice-versa. Take the time to do a good job - a significant personal experience and its effect on you is a good place to start. Selective schools are looking for a student who is enthusiastic, curious, and will make an impact on the college. Be yourself - donít worry about impressing the school. Be real.
Activities: A list of school and community activities is a good place to start, but colleges will also want to know your level of commitment to those activities, e.g. did you have a leadership role, how many years or hours per week did you devote to the activity, in what way did it make you a better person, or did it relate to your career goals?
Recommendations: Whether from a teacher, counselor, or personal reference, the letter of recommendation should convey a studentís motivation, dedication, responsibility, leadership skills, intellectual curiosity, and any other strengths, and whenever possible, give examples of how the student has demonstrated these qualities. Commenting on weaknesses or obstacles the student has overcome can also show perseverance on the part of the student.
Be sure to request recommendations 3-4 weeks before any deadline! A student who asks for a recommendation on short notice is doing him/herself a disservice as it will not be as complete as when the writer has time to craft a well thought out letter.
COLLEGE TERMINOLOGY
TERMS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Admission, Early - Not to be confused with Early Decision. This plan enables a student to begin studying at the college prior to his completion of four years of high school.
Admissions, Rolling - This means that a college gives an admissions decision as soon as possible after an application deadline. Usually, it is wise to apply early to colleges using this procedure, since further applications are usually not accepted after the admissions quota has been reached.
Admissions, Open - This type of school usually has a condition for admission which, if the student meets it, makes him automatically eligible.
Admission, Provisional - A conditional admission generally granted to students who do not meet all admission criteria. For example, a student may be provisionally admitted on the condition that he maintain a C average his first semester at the college.
Candidate Reply Agreement Date - Schools belonging to this agreement do not notify their applicants until a specified date, usually in mid-April, and request a decision from the student by May 1st, the Candidate Reply Agreement date. They usually require a deposit to hold the applicant's space in the upcoming class.
Deferred Admissions - this policy allows the college to hold off on making the decision until they can collect additional data about the applicant. It is neither an agreement nor "no decision;" however, it indicates they are interested enough to want to know more.
Early Decision - This is a plan whereby a student may apply earlier than the normal candidate to the school and receive a reply from the school prior to its normal notification date. Some schools under this plan demand that the student make only one early decision application, which is binding if admitted. In other cases, the schools allow multiple applications.
Financial Aid, Grant - This is usually an outright gift, which is not repayable. However, it is usually given to fulfill need, not to reward excellence.
Financial Aid, Scholarship - An outright gift, which is not repayable, and usually signifies academic excellence. This can also be used to signify athletic, debate, musical and other kinds of excellence. In most cases the amount is determined by need.
Guaranteed Tuition - A college may guarantee an entering freshman that tuition charges to him will not increase during the four years of attendance. Tuition is raised only for succeeding freshman classes.
Liberal Arts College - A term pertaining to the tradition of liberal education. It usually requires a nucleus of courses in the sciences, humanities, social sciences, fine arts, and foreign language. Students in this type of college are encouraged to develop interests and talents supplementing their major subjects and to take courses of cultural value.
HELPFUL INTERNET SITES
CAREER SITES
Naviance ñ Access Naviance Family connections via the Glenbard South Guidance Web site. See page 3 for instructions.
Military Careers www.todaysmilitary.com/military-careers”
Links to military sites and career training in the military.
My Majo-rs www.mymajors.com
This inventory assesses your values and high school experiences and suggests five majors that fit your profile. It also provides information about the majors, what courses you would take to get a degree, and what careers are available to graduates with these majors
Northern Illinois University Major Weblinks www.niu.edu/careerservices/weblinks Free career website for students to use to research careers and to receive help with college major decision making. It lists college majors and what can be done with that major.
Occupational Outlook www.bls.gov/oco
An electronic version of the Occupation Outlook Handbook, information about thousands of occupations.
COLLEGE SITES
Naviance Access Naviance Family connections via the Glenbard South Guidance Web site. See page 3 for instructions.
Provides online ACT registration plus links to college search and financial aid estimator sites.
Art Schools www.artschools.com
This site allows you to search by state or country, by specialty area in art, and by art schools, four-year colleges, online programs, or workshops.
Black Excel www.blackexcel.org
BLACK EXCEL is a college admissions and scholarship service for African-American students. This useful site includes links to and a searchable directory of historically black colleges and universities as well as scholarship matching capabilities.
College Board Online www.collegeboard.com
Offers college search capabilities, testing information and online registration, financial aid calculation, all without the hype of more commercially oriented sites.
Community Colleges www.community-college.org/
This website links you to 1287 community college websites plus 172 related resource sites.
Fastweb fastweb.com This site now includes a college search component in addition to its well-known scholarship search.
Historically Black Colleges www.blackhighereducation.com/
Links to home pages of historically black colleges & universities and college planning advice and strategies for African American students.
Illinois College Student Transfer Service www.iTransfer.org
Allows students to research which college courses are transferable within Illinois.
RWM Vocational Schools Database www.rwm.org
Provides database of vocational and technical schools organized by state, then by occupational area. Click on state in map, then on occupational field.
Inside College - http://www.insidecollege.com/reno/home.do-lists colleges by categories such as 'Colleges with strong Greek life' or 'Colleges you didn't think you could get into'.~ Or 'Colleges for the shy student'.
FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIP SEARCH SITES
College Board Online www.collegeboard.com
It offers college search capabilities, testing information and financial aid calculation, all without the hype of more commercially oriented sites.
College Illinois www.collegeillinois.org
This is the state of Illinois site for college, career, and financial aid information. It includes sections for parents, students, and counselors and information pertaining to students in any grade level.
Fastweb www.fastweb.com
Excellent free scholarship search database. Saves a student's profile and e-mails new sources of private merit aid to their "mail box" on line.
Federal Student Aid studentaid.ed.gov
FSA is an office of the U.S. Department of Education and its mission is to ensure that all eligible Americans benefit from federal financial assistance for education beyond high school. This site includes information on preparing for and applying to college, applying for financial aid, and repayment of loans.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid www.fafsa.ed.gov
Direct online application for the FAFSA.
Managing College Costs managingcollegecost.com
Free video seminars, articles and featured links - all designed for parents.
Merit Aid - www.meritaid.com - Merit scholarships listed by school.
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