2. WEST BLOOMFIELD HIGH SCHOOL
4925 Orchard Lake Road
West Bloomfield, Michigan 48323
(248) 865-6720
Mr. Thomas Shelton…………..………………………….……..Principal
Ms. Mara Hoffert.............................….…............Assistant Principal
Mr. Arthur Ebert……………….…..….…….…….Assistant Principal
Mr. Patrick Watson…....Assistant Principal/Athletic Director
Counseling Office
Phone: (248) 865-6768 Fax: (248) 865-6764
Follow the counseling department on Twitter:
Counselorgraff@twitter
Mrs. Susan Chang A-COL chang@wbsd.org
COUNSELOR ASSIGNMENT EMAIL
Mrs. Monica Burgess COM-G burgess@wbsd.org
Mrs. Karen Brody H-KO brody@wbsd.org
Mr. Charles Jennings KP-O jennings@wbsd.org
Mrs. Lisa Reeves P-SK reeves@wbsd.org
Mrs. Lisa Graff SL-Z graff@wbsd.org
Our goal is to respond to your email within 48 hours.
If you do not hear from us within that time, please call the counseling office.
Mrs. Hanan Zawideh…………………..College Resource Specialist
zawideh@wbsd.org ……….……….…………….248.865.6720 Ext. 6942
**Please note that the information in this publication has been compiled from books, magazine
articles, college Web sites, and college guides. With ongoing changes in admissions, policies, and
requirements, some information may not be current. It is best to check with your counselor, college
resource specialist, or admission officers of specific schools for the most up-to-date information.
WBHS 2012-2013
3. West Bloomfield High School
PLANNING GUIDELINES FOR SENIOR YEAR
The West Bloomfield High School College Planning Guide is designed to provide basic information
regarding the college selection and application process. This guide will not provide the answers to
all questions, nor will it address the needs of all students. For answers to specific questions, or for
personalized advice, talk to your counselor or the career resource coordinator.
1. Attend a mandatory College Prep Seminar to gather information about applying to college.
College application steps to success:
2. Meet with college representatives that visit WBHS and the surrounding schools each year.
3. Finalize a college list.
4. Request or download individual college applications or CommonApp as needed.
5. Request letters of recommendation. Give the recommender at least 6 weeks to complete your
Our school code is: 232-2882. You will need this code for all applications.
letter. In order for your application to be completed on time, we recommend you submit your
materials to the recommender the last two weeks of junior year or first two weeks of senior year.
6. Visit colleges.
7. Participate in WBHS’s On-Site Admissions Event and Scholarship Workshop in October.
8. Make sure all required college admissions tests have been taken.
9. Request ACT/SAT scores through testing agencies to be sent to colleges.
10. Complete and submit college applications: Do not miss deadlines! Some majors require you to
11. Schedule interviews or auditions, if necessary.
commit during the application process, others allow you to be ‘undecided’.
12. Attend a Financial Aid workshop at WBHS in December.
13. Apply for financial aid/complete the FAFSA soon after January 1st.
13. Counselor forms from each college must be given to your counselor.
14. Complete WBHS requirements for transcript requests:
o Reach 100% completion and print your Educational Development Plan (EDP).
o Update and print your resume from www.careercruising.com.
o Register on Parchment – request transcript to be sent.
15. Notify colleges of your final decision.
o Fill out the WBHS Transcript Router and turn-in to counseling office.
WBHS 2012-2013 1
4. THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN RESEARCHING COLLEGES
o Four- year university or two- year community college
o Location – Region/State
o Setting – Urban, Suburban, or Rural
o School Size/Program Size
o Type of School - Affiliation or Religion
o Majors, Programs, Specialties
o Admission Criteria/Academic Reputation
o Costs, Scholarships, and Financial Assistance
o Housing
o Athletic Programs and Opportunities
o Campus Facilities
o Specialized Programs
o Student Profile, Diversity, Campus Life, and Clubs
Once you have weighed these options, you should begin to gather information and research
colleges using some of the sources listed below:
Research each school’s website and participate in virtual tours at
www.collegeweeklive.com.
•
Michigan College Guide for in-state schools, at http://www.michigancollegeguide.com/.
Speak with your counselors, teachers, alumni, friends, and current students.
•
Meet with college representatives at WBHS and college fairs in your area.
•
Talk with professionals in fields of interest.
•
List and compare college characteristics along with positive and negative impressions.
•
Make official campus visits and attend sessions for prospective students.
•
•
From this research you should have at least 5 to 10 colleges that match your interests and needs.
Most students apply to at least three colleges. As you narrow your choices, your selections
should fall into three categories.
Dream Schools (Reach) Schools that are a reach either academically or financially
Probable Schools (Reasonable) Schools that meet your needs and will likely accept you
Safety Schools (Realistic) Schools will easily accept you and be a good academic and
financial match.
WBHS 2012-2013 2
5. College Comparison Worksheet
School & Location Target 1. Safety School 2. Probable School 3. Probable School 4. Dream School
Public/Private
Size
City/ State
Urban/Rural
Academics
Study Major
Student to Faculty
>20 student class %
<50 student class %
% Graduation
Cost- Tuition and Fees
Private
Public In-State
Public Out-of-State
Room and Board
Financial Aid
Grant Loan Work Grant Loan Work Grant Loan Work Grant Loan Work
Financial Aid Package
$ Scholarship Package
Scholastic Strength
School Mine School Mine School Mine School Mine
Average GPA
Average ACT
Average SAT
National Ranking
WBHS 2012-2013 3
6. COLLEGE APPLICATION ORGANIZER complete one form for each college
College Name:___________________________________
Application type: (circle one) Online Paper Common App Other:_________________
Completed/
Submitted Additional Action
Attend College Planning Seminar at WBHS Y N
Action Deadline Date Received Needed
100% complete EDP-Print at careercruising.com Y N
Complete Resume -Print at careercruising.com Y N
Complete WBHS Transcript Router form Y N
Request Transcript through Parchment. Allow 15
school days to be delivered Y N
Send ACT/SAT scores through www.actstudent.org Y N
Request letter of recommendation. Allow ample time
for recommender to complete. Y N
Print College Application and begin a rough draft Y N
Start writing College Application Essay (1) Y N
Start writing College Application Essay (2) Y N
Have someone proofread essay Y N
Complete final essay Y N
Finalize essay and submit college application Y N
Confirm that all material has been received through
your online account status or email to the admissions
office Y N
Complete and submit Financial Aid Forms Y N
Complete mid-year report, request transcripts,
complete router form at Parchment Y N
Request final transcript, complete form to make
request at Parchment Y N
Check your email/online account often as colleges will
communicate with you using these two systems Y N
WBHS 2012-2013 4
7. College admissions officers will use some, if not all, of the information listed below in their admissions
WHAT COLLEGES LOOK FOR
process. However, individual colleges differ in how they evaluate this information. For example, one
college may place a great deal of emphasis on standardized test scores while another college may not.
Colleges look to admit students who will be academically successful at their institutions. Additionally,
colleges have other priorities that impact student admission such as the diversity of their student body,
the geographical mix, legacy standing, athletics and talent, as well as summer experiences and internships.
Academic GPA- Grades in College Prep Courses
English, Science, Social Studies, Math, Foreign Language
Standarized Test Scores
Cumulative GPA- Grades in ALL Subjects
A challenging curriculum including Honors and Advanced Placement Classes
Courses/grades indicate an upward trend, showing academic growth
Teacher Recommendations/ Counselor Recommendations
Well- written essays or writing samples
Demonstrates a genuine interest in school or program
Work/ Hobbies/ Extracurricular Activities/ Experiences/ Diversity/ Community service/Clubs
Anything special that sets the student apart
Passionate involvement or leadership in extracurricular activities
Interview/ Audition (Not always offered)
No single factor will determine acceptance or rejection. Some colleges may look at only grades and test
scores. Most schools, however, are interested in more than just the academic record. They want to know
about your accomplishments, interests, and future goals.
WBHS 2012-2013 5
8. SENIOR YEAR TO DO CHECKLIST
Ask for letters of Narrow your list of colleges to Obtain financial Finalize and submit Start collecting
SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY
recommendation. those of greatest interest. Make aid information applications. Some financial records to
This may be an sure to have all applications and from each college. colleges have complete financial
online essays in progress. Request your Submit all required application aid forms. (W-2,
recommendation or transcripts be sent via documents on deadlines in January. Bank statements,
written. If written, Parchment. time. Apply only to Social Security
provide stamped, schools of interest, records) This
addressed envelope but include one or information may be
for each college. two “safeties” and requested for proof
one “dream.” of eligibility.
Attend college fairs Meet with: Send thank you Keep up your Complete and
and do an online o Your counselor cards to teachers grades. Study for submit (FAFSA)
search to gather o Admission and other people finals!! soon after January
information on Representatives who have written 1st.
colleges of interest. o Present and Past letters of
Students recommendation
on your behalf.
Start working on Deadlines for early action are Search for Have your parents Look for decisions
college admission generally November 1st. Make scholarships. attend a Financial from any school to
application, sure all application Aid Night at WBHS. which you applied
especially the essay. requirements are received well for early action.
Write rough drafts in advance of the deadline date. Apply for
and have them scholarships, grants,
critiqued and and other financial
proofed. aid sources.
Go on official Submit the Student Release Complete the Check on your DO NOT develop
campus visits. Notify form to the NCAA Clearinghouse FAFSA forecaster application. Register Senioritis. You will
the college of your if you wish to play a college as a practice for and obtain an online need to submit mid-
visit. sport. applying for account to check on year and final
financial aid. the status of your grades.
application.
WBHS 2012-2013 6
9. SENIOR YEAR TO DO CHECKLIST
If your colleges Colleges start Compare financial aid awards. Take Advanced Request final
FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL EARLY MAY LATE MAY
require mid-year sending Consider appealing to favorite Placement (AP) transcripts be sent to
reports or admission, schools for more aid. examinations. the college that you
transcripts, rejection and will attend through
complete the wait-list letters. Parchment.
router info and
make a request
through
Parchment.
Register for Use this time to If you are wait listed at your Keep your grades Notify your college
Advanced find out more favorite school, accept your 2nd up. Colleges may about any outside
Placement Exams about the colleges choice school and pay deposits reverse admission grants or scholarships
(AP) through the to which you have by deadline. If you plan to stay decisions based on you have been
Counseling Office. applied. on the wait list, fill out and senior grades. awarded.
send all required forms.
Fill out and Analyze financial Send an acceptance letter and Study for finals. Finalize summer
submit the aid offers. In deposit to the college of choice school or summer job
financial aid forms some cases, you and write a polite letter of plans.
required by the may consider refusal to others.
colleges where appealing.
applications have
been sent.
You should Check your status Watch important dates and If you find you have Find out when your
receive your with your online deadlines regarding rooming not been admitted college is hosting its
Student Aid account as some requests and financial aid. to any college, ask orientation session
Report (SAR), colleges only post your counselor for and plan to attend. It
noting your online. advice. is a great way to meet
eligibility for aid. students and faculty as
well as get to know the
campus.
WBHS 2012-2013 7
10. MICHIGAN COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES PROFILE 2012
Percent Average Average ACT Room & Application
www.adrian.edu
Institution Website Size Accepted GPA ACT Range Tuition Board Fee
Adrian 1,678 64% 3.30 23 20 - 25 $28,606 $8,796
Adrian College
None
Albion, MI www.albion.edu 1,514 69% 3.40 25 21 - 27 $32,100 $9,260 $40
Albion College
Calvin College
Grand Rapids www.calvin.edu 3,873 75% 3.60 26 23 - 28 $26,480 $9,110 $35
Mt. Pleasant www.cmich.edu 21,220 68% 3.30 23 20 - 24 $10,740 $8,212 $35
Central Michigan
Studies Detroit www.ccscad.edu 1,339 44% 3.10 22 18 - 23 $31,440 $8,500
College for Creative
None
Ypsilanti www.emich.edu 18,621 60% 3.10 21 18 - 23 $8,683 $7,896 $30
Eastern Michigan
Big Rapids www.ferris.edu 13,705 54% 3.20 22 18 - 24 $10,440 $9,344 $30
Ferris State U
Allendale www.gvsu.edu 21,236 70% 3.50 24 21 - 26 $9,716 $7,624 $30
Grand Valley State
Hillsdale www.hillsdale.edu 1,400 43% 3.75 29 25 - 30 $21,390 $8,640 $35
Hillsdale College
Holland www.hope.edu 3,249 82% 3.75 26 23 - 29 $27,650 $8,510 $50
Hope College
Kalamazoo www.kzoo.edu 1,403 69% 3.62 28 26 - 30 $37,392 $8,274 $40
Kalamazoo College
Flint www.kettering.edu 1,745 62% 3.70 27 24 - 29 $33,946 $6,660 $35
Kettering U
Sault St. Marie www.lssu.edu 2,600 89% 3.10 21 19 - 24 $9,364 $8,319 $35
Lake Superior State
For more information click here Michigan College Guide
WBHS 2012-2013 8
11. MICHIGAN COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES PROFILE 2012
Percent Average Average ACT Room & Application
Institution Website Size Accepted GPA ACT Range Tuition Board Fee
$30
Southfield www.ltu.edu 3,056 51% 3.34 24 20 -27 $25,758 $8,306 Free online
Lawrence Tech
$25
Livonia www.munet.edu 3,169 66% 3.30 22 20 -24 $14,700 $7,430 Free online
Madonna U
East Lansing www.msu.edu 36,058 70% 3.50 25 23 - 27 $11,722 $7,820 $50
Michigan State U
Houghton www.mtu.edu 5,731 75% 3.60 26 23 - 28 $12,615 $8,648 None
Michigan Tech
Marquette www.nmu.edu 9,273 72% 2.94 23 20 - 25 $7,248 $8,026 $30
Northern Michigan
Rochester www.oakland.edu 18,920 67% 3.30 22 19 - 25 $9,595 $7,680 None
Oakland University
Saginaw www.svsu.edu 8,862 85% 3.21 22 18 - 24 $7,377 $8,000 $25
Saginaw Valley State
Detroit www.udmercy.edu 3,149 64% 3.43 24 19 - 25 $30,660 $8,390 $25
U of D Mercy
Ann Arbor www.umich.edu 27,027 40% 3.80 30 28 - 32 $12,634 $9,468 $65
U of M
Dearborn www.umd.umich.edu 7,224 61% 3.50 24 22 - 26 $9,885 NA $30
U of M
Flint www.umflint.edu 6,959 70% 3.30 23 20 - 24 $8,778 $7,432 $30
U of M
Detroit www.wayne.edu 20,589 76% 3.27 22 19-23 $8,611 $8,696 Free online
Wayne State U
Kalamazoo www.kzoo.edu 20,054 83% 3.32 22 20 - 25 $8,762 $8,045 $35
Western Michigan U
For more information click here Michigan College Guide
WBHS 2012-2013 9
12. COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Community colleges are public two-year institutions that provide excellent opportunities
for students. Community colleges have an open door admissions policy. This policy
describes an admission that is open to individuals with a high school diploma or GED and
provide access to higher education. There are many benefits to attending a community
college.
Lower Cost
Proximity to Home
Community College Helps Build Confidence
Greater Focus on Instruction
Many Pathways to Goals
College Transfer Options***
High School Grades and Test Scores Vanish
Vocational-Technical Programs
Addresses Needs of Students
***If you are planning on transferring to a four year school, you need to make sure
that the courses you take at the community college will give you credit at the institute
to which you wish to transfer.
For more information about finding a community college in a
specific area and/or the many programs available go to:
www.collegeprofiles.com/twc-2yr.html
www.macrao.org
At the Michigan Transfer Network (MTN) you can view transfer course equivalencies between
many Michigan colleges and universities. There are over 50 participating institutions and
600,000 equivalencies all on one Web site. New equivalencies are added daily with links to
participating institutions home pages and admissions applications.
www.michigantransfernetwork.org
WBHS 2012-2013 10
13. THE CAMPUS VISIT- THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE
It is important to visit the colleges you are considering applying to in order to get a feel for the campus,
especially if you are planning on applying early action. The number of school visits you schedule will
depend on your time and finances, but you should try to visit schools that will provide varied
experiences.
Knowing the importance of these visits, WBHS seniors receive two exempt absences, if proper
procedures are taken.
Do some preparation
Research the college Put together a list of questions
Schedule your visit with the college at least two weeks in advance
Inquire about campus/ virtual tours Visit when classes are in session
Schedule interviews with faculty and admission staff
Professors who teach in your area of interest Verify admission requirements with admission staff
Visit while classes are in session
Sit in on classes, look around, stay overnight if possible Read campus newspaper and bulletin boards for activities
Talk to as many students as you can
What do they like best? What do they like least? What would they change? How is life on the weekend?
Trust your instincts, take notes, write down your impressions
Is this where you want to be for four years? Brochures and DVDs can be misleading
Questions to Ask Students During Your Campus Visit
How much time do you spend studying?
How easy is it to get help in a class or get in touch with professors?
Have you been able to get into the classes you wanted to take?
What is the nightlife like? Do people party a lot?
Do most students stay on campus on weekends or do they go home?
Do you feel safe on campus?
How is the food?
What do you wish you had known before coming here?
If you had to make the decision again, would you attend this college?
What is your favorite part about attending school here?
What is the one thing you would change about this school?
WBHS 2012-2013 11
14. MEETING WITH COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVES
Whether you meet with college representatives at WBHS, an interview, on-site admissions, college fairs,
or information sessions, you have the opportunity to make a favorable and lasting impression. Introduce
yourself and look the representative in the eye as you offer a firm handshake. Quite often these
representatives are the same people who will read your applications and decide your future
opportunities. Being able to associate your file with a smiling, self-assured individual is helpful.
Few schools require on-campus interviews. Some schools do not offer them at all. Some have elaborate
networks of alumni or students who interview applicants in their home town. If you are applying to a
school that does require an interview and you plan on visiting the campus, call the admissions office in
advance and let them know when you are planning to visit. They may schedule your interview at that
time.
Be on time for your
appointment
Regardless of
with whom you Do your homework; learn as
Save your first choice school are meeting, the much about the school as
interview for last you can prior to your
guidelines meeting
remain the same
Be prepared to ask
questions, but not
those that are
clearly answered
in their catalogue
or web site
WBHS 2012-2013 12
15. LETTERS OR RECOMMENDATION
A great teacher recommendation can add depth and excitement to your college application. But many recommendations can end up
sounding alike if you do not inform the person of your accomplishments. Find the best recommenders and provide them with an updated,
comprehensive resume from careercruising.com and any additional information that would help them know what you do outside of their
classrooms.
IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
PICK YOUR RECOMMENDERS WISELY FOLLOW THROUGH
TO ...
It is your responsibility to make sure the
Provide specific forms and detailed letter is sent out on time. It is ok to politely
How well do they know me? instuctions- online website(s) , mailing remind recommenders of deadlines.
address(es).
Do they know the things I do outside of their Provide the names of the schools and majors If a letter has been sent to the college, make
classroom? you are considering at those schools. sure it has been received.
Could they write a glowing recommendation Provide information as to the purpose of the Follow up with a thank you note. Do not email
letter on my behalf? recommendation such as Scholarship or or text. A simple card shows you value the
admissions specific to a school. teacher's efforts as well as serves as a
Can they speak in concrete terms about the Provide timelines and deadlines for when reminder if they have not sent the letter.
passion and energy that I bring to my work? letters should be submitted. Remember to
Ask 10th or 11th grade academics teachers, provide ample time for the letter to be written
unless, your field of interest requires . recommendations are to be mailed, provide
If
otherwise. an addressed, stamped envelope for each
school.
Provide your detailed Career Cruising resume
so your background, extracurricular
activities, sports, jobs, career goals, and
anything that you would like the
recommender to address is available to them
WBHS 2012-2013 13
16. WRITING THE ESSAY
It may only be 500 words or less, but the admissions essay portion of the college application can
mean the difference between acceptance and rejection. Without the essay, admissions officers
would have to choose arbitrarily between two or even two hundred applications with identical
profiles. The personal essay should demonstrate to the admissions committee how you are
different from everybody else. It should provide information about you that a list of test scores,
grades, and extracurricular pursuits cannot. Additionally, it should demonstrate your ability to
use standard written English, correct syntax usage, and grammar. The essay can also show your
creativity and originality.
Start early to allow plenty of time to develop your essay.
DO….
Make sure you address the question or topic.
•
Pursue perfection - check spelling and grammar.
•
If using one essay for multiple schools, keep the school’s name straight.
•
Use good taste in composing your essay.
•
Be creative and try to captivate your audience.
•
Be yourself. Think about what interests you or what sets you apart from others.
•
Use detail and concrete examples and experiences.
•
Give your draft to others to read.
•
Revise and rewrite until you are satisfied.
•
Try to show interest and knowledge in answering “Why I want to attend this school.” Schools
•
are more likely to admit a student who has made an effort to learn more about them.
•
Captivate your audience by making it engaging and memorable.
Be honest. If you cannot think of anything to write, do not copy someone else’s essay or make
•
up a sad story.
•
Do not repeat what has already been said in your application. Do not include a laundry list of
DO NOT…
your activities or awards.
•
Do not say what you think they want you to say. Be true to yourself.
Do not write a scholarly essay. Admissions committees want to learn about you.
•
Do not have a parent write your essay. The voice of an adult can easily come through.
•
Do not express feelings of anger or hostility toward others.
•
Do not thesaurusize.
•
Do not use generalities and clichés that make your essay unremarkable from hundreds of other
•
essays read by admissions officials. Details and specifics are necessary.
•
Do not recycle essays. Make sure you answer specific questions.
Do not turn in something because your parents say, “Turn it in early”. Make sure you are
•
satisfied with the content of your essay even if it takes another week.
•
• Do not count on spell check or grammar check!
WBHS 2012-2013 14
17. TYPES OF COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Regular Admission Rolling Admission/ Early Response Restricted Early
or Modified Rolling or Action or Early
Regular Decision Admission Early Action Early Decision Notification On-Site Admission
NON-BINDING NON-BINDING NON-BINDING BINDING NON-BINDING NON-BINDING
Students submit an Institutions review Students apply early by a Students make a legally Students apply to an
application by the applications as they are designated date, usually binding commitment to a institution of preference
WBHS On-Site
deadline and receive a submitted and render November 1st and first-choice institution and receive a decision
Admissions Event is
decision in a clearly admission decisions receives a decision well in where, if admitted, they early. They may be
October 17, 2012.
stated period of time throughout the admission advance of the college’s must enroll. The restricted from applying Held at high schools or on
(usually first week of cycle. In general, the regular response date. application deadline is ED or EA or REA to other the college campus,
April) earlier you apply, the University of Michigan usually between November institutions. If offered students come with an
earlier you may hear of and Michigan State 1st and December 15th with enrollment, they have official transcript, test
your acceptance. Modified University offer this result notification in until May 1st to confirm. scores, and a completed
rolling admissions may option; there is no December. Students may application to meet with
send out their quota of commitment to attend if apply to only one school an admission
acceptance early in the accepted. Commitment through this process, but representative. The
year, therefore, it is to the decisions by the student, may apply to others representative will
students’ advantage to do not have to be made through regular decision. If review all application
apply early. until May 1st. accepted to the early material and render a
decision school, all other decision on the spot. In
applications must be the past, Eastern,
withdrawn. The advantage Saginaw, Grand Valley,
of applying ED is that more Kettering, and Bowling
schools are committing a Green have held on-site
significant portion of spots admissions at WBHS.
to ED applicants.
Application requirements vary from college to college and even year to year.
Read each college’s up-to-date web site and application carefully for exact policies and deadlines before you check the box.
If you are thinking about applying to a restricted or binding early decision plan, make sure you discuss this with your parents and counselor. A college that looks like a
perfect fit in October could be less than ideal in April or August.
WBHS 2012-2013 15
18. GET ORGANIZED…GET STARTED…..GO!!
Before you begin, you must decide on the type of application you will be using such as online, paper,
CommonApp . Many schools give students different options to obtain and complete applications.
Some of these options include downloading the application, applying electronically, or applying to
multiple schools by filling out one application such as the Common Application at
www.commonapp.org. It is still possible to call or email a school and ask if a paper application sent
through the mail is an option. In addition, WBHS will be hosting an on-site admissions fair on
October 17, 2012, for seniors to meet admissions representatives from several Michigan Colleges,
apply, get an immediate decision on their application status, as well as find out if they qualify for any
scholarships. Whichever option you choose, the steps for filling out your application are the same.
CREATE A FOLDER FOR EACH COLLEGE TO WHICH YOU APPLY
READ and then REREAD every word of the
directions before you begin.
HARVARD
Make a list of everything that needs to be submitted.
Gather all requested materials- Request transcripts/
ACT and SAT scores. Ask for recommendations.
Complete needed forms.
YALE
Pay specific attention to deadlines and allow ample time
for recommendations and transcripts to be sent.
BROWN
Keep a record of when, what, and to whom material was
submitted.
Are essays required? How long will it take you to write
U-MICHIGAN
the best essay?
Save your #1 school's application for last, but do not
miss the deadline as the experience should help you
M- STATE
improve.
Neatness counts! Make a copy of each application and
use as a draft.
PERSONAL RECORDS
Full legal name & SS#
Accurate family Information
Answer every question and fill in every space.
Extracurricular/Achievements
Honors, Awards & Transcript Complete the supplemental information section of your
application, even if it is described as optional.
Work history / Resume
Know your school. Make sure to use the right school
Recommendation letters
WBHS address/ Code: 232-882 name; do not list a major that the school does not offer.
Appropriate email address
Tell the truth.
Proof and read again for grammar, spelling, accuracy,
and completion.
Make sure all requested material(s) has/have been sent
and received by the college.
Make copies of everything you send.
Submit application(s) well ahead of deadline.
Confirm that all needed material(s) has/have been
received by the college.
WBHS 2012-2013 16
19. Completing the Common Application
More selective and prestigious institutions may have membership with the Common Application.
This allows students to complete one general application to apply to dozens of different
universities. The Common App requires a counselor and two teacher letters of recommendation.
Universities participating in the Common App have additional questions that pertain only to their
individual university that a prospective student must complete.
Once you have confirmed that the university you wish to apply to uses the Common App, you are
ready to get started by visiting the Common App website and creating a username and password at
www.commonapp.org.
The school report form should be submitted to your counselor with your router form when
requesting transcripts. The counselor will complete the report and write a letter of
recommendation to include with the report. Once you have received confirmation from a teacher
willing to complete a recommendation, ask if the recommender prefers to write the letter/form
online or provide a paper copy. If online is preferred, remember to list the recommender’s name
and email address on the application so an email will be sent to the recommender with a link to
complete the evaluation and submit the letter.
WBHS 2012-2013 17
20. THE WAITING GAME
You have finished the essays and sent out the last of the applications. Many seniors believe the
hard work is over and the remainder of senior year can be spent sitting back, relaxing, and
waiting for the decisions. However, the work is far from over. While admissions representatives
are busy making decisions that will affect the next four years of your life, there are still many
things left for seniors to do to increase their chances for admission.
If you haven’t had any response from the schools to which you have applied, check
your online account for status updates and to confirm that all parts of your
•
application have been received. If you believe an error has been made, email or call
the admissions offices to check on the status of your applications.
• Do not become an application-status stalker on the phone.
Avoid Senioritis. Every year, colleges rescind offers of admission or put students
on academic probation if senior year grades drop.
•
Colleges expect seniors to complete courses in which they have enrolled. Many
applications ask applicants to list senior year courses. If there is a change in classes
•
from APs to weight training, admissions personnel may ask for an explanation and
can revoke an offer of admission if not satisfied with the response.
If you win awards or accomplish something noteworthy, let admissions offices
know to update your profile.
•
Be sure to file the Free Application for Student Federal Aid (FASFA) as soon as
possible after January 1st. This application must be completed in order to apply for
•
state, federal, and institutional financial aid.
Write thank-you letters to the teachers and counselors who wrote
recommendations for you.
•
Continue or begin your scholarship search.
Visit college campuses.
•
Stay organized and meet important deadlines.
•
•
WBHS 2012-2013 18
21. DECISIONS….DECISIONS…
Colleges generally select a certain date as to when decisions will be released unless the college has a rolling admissions policy. Colleges with
rolling admission policies notify applicants with decisions as the applications are reviewed.
CONGRATULATIONS NO THANKS WAIT LIST DEFERRED DECISION
Accept or decline by It’s not personal; colleges With guidance from your parents, If you are accepted to
the deadline noted are trying to make a good counselors, and/or teachers, decide another college you
on your acceptance fit both for the student whether or not you want to stay on the might want to accept
letter. and the college. wait list. their offer and send
your deposit to hold
Send a deposit when If you really want to Reply to the school with your decision. your spot.
you accept an attend this college,
admission to retain contact the admissions If accepted at another college, you might Remember to send a
your place. office to find out the want to accept their offer and send your mid-year report and
requirements for deposit to hold your spot. 7th semester
If you cannot pay transferring after a year transcripts.
deposit by the or two.
deadline, ask the Contact the college to emphasize your
BOOSTING YOUR CHANCES
college if a deadline desire to attend their school.
extension is possible.
Visit the college and ask if an interview is
If you decide not to possible.
attend a college that
has accepted you, let Take an official campus tour if you have
them know as soon not done so.
as possible that you
are declining their Inform the school of any noteworthy
offer of acceptance. changes.
That opens up space
for another student Keep your grades up.
that might be on their
waiting list Stay involved in your activities, you might
get reevaluated.
Consider sending a letter of
recommendation if one was not originally
required.
WBHS 2012-2013 19
22. SCHOLARSHIPS
College is expensive, but there are ways to make it affordable. It just takes time and research. There are
scholarships for just about anything. Scholarships are awarded to students based on many different factors
including, but not limited to, the academic record, leadership ability, talents, racial or ethnic heritage, written
essays, declared major, or need for financial assistance. Some sources of scholarship aid are parents’ employers,
labor unions, civic and religious organizations, professional associations, and other private groups.
Since many scholarships are awarded by colleges, students should check the financial aid department of schools
they are interested in attending for a separate listing of their scholarships. This same office also administers
various federal aid programs as well as any institutional funds that the school might have set aside for this
purpose. Most of these scholarships can be found on each school’s website. Some colleges have merit based
competitive scholarship programs. Students may have to attend and participate in an actual competition to receive
these awards.
Many scholarship websites offer students the ability to search for scholarships that are tailor-made to fit their
specific characteristics. Fastweb.com is one of the best known and most widely respected scholarship sites. An
updated comprehensive list of free financial aid and scholarship websites can be found on WBHS Career Center
page. NEVER pay any person or service promising or guaranteeing money for college as many of these avenues are
fraudulent.
West Bloomfield High School’s Career Center receives and publishes information on a variety of scholarships. A list
of available scholarships can be found on WBHS website under Career Center, then click on the newest scholarship
list. Keep your counselor or the College Resource Coordinator informed of your particular interest area or needs
when searching for scholarship possibilities. As new scholarships are presented, the counseling department will
tweet them on a regular basis. Follow screen name “counselorgraff’ for details. Do not always look for the ‘big’
money as ten smaller scholarships can add up.
Start early and stay committed
Remember the following points:
Register on various scholarship websites- list of
links can be found on WBHS Career Center web
page
Be willing to compete
Be persistent and thorough
Make sure you meet all eligibility requirements
Follow directions- provide only what is required
Plan ahead- some require recommendation letters
and/or transcripts
Neatness and spelling do count
Watch all deadlines
Attend a Scholarship Workshop (in October) to
learn more
WBHS 2012-2013 20
23. HOW FINANCIAL AID WORKS
Financial aid is intended to make up the difference between what your family can afford to pay and what
college costs. Over half of the students currently enrolled in college receive some sort of financial aid to
help pay college costs.
The financial aid system is based on the goal of equal access for anyone who wants to be able to attend
The System
college, regardless of financial circumstances. Here is how the system works:
Students and their families are expected to contribute to the cost of college to the extent that they
are able.
If a family is unable to contribute the entire cost, financial aid is available to bridge the gap.
The amount your family is able to contribute is frequently referred to as the Expected Family
Who Decides How Much My Family Is Able to Contribute?
Contribution, or EFC. The figure is determined by whoever may be awarding that aid, i.e. federal
government or individual colleges or universities.
The federal government and financial aid offices use need based formulas to analyze your family’s
financial circumstances taking into account income, assets, and family size and compare them
proportionally with other families’ financial circumstances.
First, most families cannot just pay the EFC out of current income alone. The formulas do assume that
What the EFC Figure Means for Most Families
families will meet their contribution through a combination of savings, current income, and borrowing.
Second, financial aid is limited. The formulas therefore measure a particular family’s ability to pay
against other families’ ability to pay.
Loans •Student works to help pay
for various college costs.
•Student finds part-time
•Grants do not have to employment to help meet
be repaid. •Have to be paid back.
their financial needs
•Scholarships are •Low-interest loans are typical
•Student gains work
usually based on merit. •No interest accrued until you experience while serving
start repayment. their campus and
Grants and •Payments begin after surrounding communities
Scholarships graduation.
Work Study
Every public institution is required to have a price calculator on their website. Using this calculator,
Don’t Rule Out Colleges with Higher Costs
figure the amount you will need to attend that university. A more expensive university may still be within
reach, for example, if your EFC is $5,000 at a college with a total cost of $8,000, you would be eligible for
up to $3,000 in financial aid. At a college with a total of $25,000, you would be eligible for up to $20,000
in aid as your family would be asked to contribute the same amount at both colleges.
WBHS 2012-2013 2012- 21
24. HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES
High school athletes can have an advantage in gaining admissions to colleges that might otherwise be
out of reach and in obtaining funding for college. If you want to play a sport in college, get into the
college of your choice, and receive a sports scholarship, check out the National College Athletic
association’s website at www.ncaa.org. The NCAA has rules on eligibility, recruiting, and financial aid.
You may also call (877)-622-2321.
Athletes need to be certified by the NCAA Clearinghouse for Division I and Division II programs. There
are many rules with which students and coaches need to be familiar. The academic standards are
higher than basic graduation requirements, and you need to be familiar with the process. You may
obtain this information at www.ncaaclearinghouse,net or call (877)-262-1492.
Every recruited athlete must have a Student Release Form on file with the NCAA
Clearinghouse. This form is available at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. Although the NCAA
sets minimum requirements, many colleges will additional standards for admitting
athletes. For an updated list of athletic requirements and to download student release
forms, visit the NCAA website at www.ncaa.org
Here are some helpful websites/publications for athletes:
www.CampusChamps.org this is a free, interactive web site for
student athletes with scholarship and financial aid information,
•
NCAA rules, and advice from coaches.
www.athleticaid.com is another site with scholarship, college search, and other
information.
•
Request a copy of NCAA Guide for the College-Bound Student Athlete at the
Clearinghouse website or download it from the website.
•
www.naia.org is the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. Check out
the Guide for the College Bound Athlete.
•
The Blue Book of College Athletics by Athletic Publishing Company. This book
provides information on the various sports programs available on college
•
campuses.
WBHS 2012-2013 22
25. HELPFUL WEBSITES
Scholarships College Planning Career Exploration
http://www.fastweb.com/ http://www.collegeboard.org/ http://careeronestop.org/
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ http://www.petersons.com/ http://www.onetonline.org/
http://www.cappex.com/ http://www.nextstepu.com/ http://www.quintcareers.com/
http://www.nafsa.org/ http://mycollegeguide.org/ http://www.bls.gov/ooh/
http://www.princetonreview.com/
http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/paying-for-college/scholarships
**For a more comprehensive list of websites please visit WBHS Career Center webpage.
http://www.westbloomfield.k12.mi.us/wbhs/Departments/Counseling/Career-Center-93.html
ACT/SAT Test Preparation Help
www.actstudent.org
West Bloomfield's Community Education ACT Test Prep
Workshop
248-865-6633
West Bloomfield Township Library http://www.wblib.org/
Offered in March
You can find a comprehensive collection of books and online
resources to prepare you for the tests
http://www.westbloomfield.k12.mi.us/wbsd/Community-
Education/
248-682-2120
Many of these websites require registration in order to gain access to the site. While most sites offer free
registration, some charge the user a fee for more information. The Counseling Office does not encourage
students to pay for access to these sites or services; they are listed because they contain valuable
information which is accessible without incurring a fee. Websites that guarantee more successful test
scores, admission to highly selective colleges, scholarships, and financial aid should be viewed cautiously.
WBHS 2012-2013 23
