Ask A School Counselor

Admissions Process

I'm a high school junior. How many schools should I aim to apply to?

The answer is different for everyone. The first step is to set up your list of desired schools, categorized into three groups: Safe, Target and Reach. You want to have at least three schools in every group, for an ideal total of ten schools. However, bear in mind that individual application fees can really add up. I would recommend only applying to the schools that you are seriously considering to attend, whether that is four or forty. If you are eligible for application fee waivers, feel free to apply with abandon. You can also check out a list of zero application fee schools here. Good luck!

When should I take the ACT?

For selective schools, ideally you should aim to take the ACT 2x-3x during the Fall semester of your junior year. This will allow you the time to focus on improving your G.P.A. and AP exam prep in the Spring of your junior year.

Some schools will not accept an ACT score if taken prior to the completion of sophomore year. The argument is; tests taken too early in high school are not demonstrative of growth.

Should I submit my exam scores even if my school is test-optional?

It depends. First, research the requirements of each individual school, as metrics do vary, even within the same state college systems. Your exam scores may be necessary for financial aid purposes. Second, research the percentiles of previously admitted students. If your scores are between the 50th and 75th percentiles, it is likely that your score will help your application. Consider sitting for the exams regardless but please don't stress about it! Why? Because you alone are in control of releasing your scores. This practice of do-no-harm can work to your advantage. Finally, know that if you elect to withhold your scores, the rest of your application will be held to considerable scrutiny. Therefore, it is vital that your application is not only complete but polished to the very best of your ability.

How important are my senior year grades?

Very! Schools often request a "Mid-Term Report" from your school counselor to check on your grades. This is true regardless of which application deadline you applied to (Regular Decision, Early Decision, Early Action, Early Decision II, SCEA). Don't make the mistake in assuming that you're finished with your high school course work once you've submit your college applications.

College Tours

I'm in 9th grade. Is it too early to go on a college tour?

The earlier the better in my opinion. Try and go during your spring break, so that you can get a better feel of what campus life is really about. If you go in the summer, campus will be empty. Sign up for the tour and information sessions with the student's email (not mom and dad's!) that will ultimately be used on the future application. This will show a record of "demonstrated interest" later on. Pro tip: make sure your email address is appropriate like my.name@gmail.com, not GamerSlayer4lyfe123@gmail.com