College Application Process:
The college application process should begin in the first semester of a
student's senior year. In general, students should narrow down their college
choices to a maximum of 5 schools. Included in this list are a couple of
their "dream schools", a shoe-in and a couple of in-between choices.
Types of applications:
In selecting the type of applications to complete, there are mainly 2 types
of applications and they are: hard copy and on-line applications. Hard copy
applications are available in the guidance office for most PA schools and a
limited number of out-of-state schools (primarily NY state colleges).
On-line applications for PA schools are available at a number of Internet
sites. One such site is educationplanner.org where students can easily apply
to numerous colleges and receive virtual reality tours of selected schools.
Whether applying on-line or using the paper version, students should make
their guidance counselor aware of specific application requirements, the
major they are declaring, and other necessary information. When a student is
ready to apply, it is suggested that he/she make an appointment with their
guidance counselor early in the process to ensure their application is
completed accurately and arrives at their college in a timely manner. It has
been suggested that students allow up to 2 weeks for the guidance department
to process their applications.
Commonly asked questions:
Next, there are a number of commonly asked questions that exist on all
applications. Most applications require an official transcript, current
grades, SAT or ACT scores, and a school profile (explains our grading
system). Others require or highly suggest letters of recommendation, essays,
and a list of extra-curricular activities including positions held, specific
awards or accomplishments, and depth of involvement.
Letters of recommendation:
As for letters of recommendation, ample time and sufficient information
should be given to teachers in order to provide a quality letter of
recommendation. In other words, asking for letters of recommendation a
couple of days prior to the deadline or requesting letters during peak
school periods is not advised. Peak periods include progress report and
report card weeks. Lastly, letters of recommendation can come from a variety
of sources including: teachers, employers, coaches, clergy, club advisors, or
guidance counselors. If there is no specification by the college, a cross-
section of sources is suggested.
Transcript policy and release process:
With regard to student transcripts, our guidance department requires that
offical transcripts not be taken out of our office. In other words, all
official transcripts will be sent directly from the guidance office to the
respective college in a sealed envelope. Should your child require an
official transcript be sent to their college, a transcript release form needs
to be completed in the guidance office and transcripts will be processed on
Thursday's in our department.
Final review:
While your guidance counselor reviews application materials, we are not
responsible for spelling and gramatical errors. Therefore, students should
exercise caution and be particular when completing their applications.
Remember, a student's application, not unlike a job application and/or
resume, is a college's first and often only impression used to determine
whether a student is accepted into college or not.
