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This page is to help high school students plan for their future. Each month you will find college planning tips from Iowa College Access Network (ICAN), along with additional resources.
http://collegerealitycheck.com/en/
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CLEP (College Level Examination Placement) Test Info for Testing at IA Lakes CC - Receive College Credit for Subjects that You have done Well in During High School
http://www.iowalakes.edu/student_services/success_center/clep_testing_information/
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Freshmen
Did you know some colleges recommend you complete four years of English; three to four years of math, science and social studies; two years of electives and two to four years of foreign language in high school? Work with your school counselor to make sure you're on the right track.
Set up an appointment with your school counselor to discuss your education goals. Before you meet with them, prepare a list of questions to ask.
Talk to your parents and other adults in a variety of professions to determine what they like and dislike about their careers. Also find out what kind of education is required for each type of job.
Get to know the four different types of postsecondary institutions. There are colleges and universities that offer four-year degrees and beyond, as well as community colleges and technical institutes that offer programs that can last 12 months to two years in length.
Sophomores
Talk to your school counselor about the possibility of taking the PLAN test is the pre-ACT test. Now is a good time to review your future plans with them and make sure you're on track for graduation.
Attend college fairs in your area and meet with college representatives who visit high school. The Golden Circle College Fair is the largest college fair in Iowa, with approximately 150 colleges represented.
Keep track of your assignments, test dates, activities and important events by using a planner or electronic organizer. They can also be used to set up a study schedule.
Juniors
Attend college fairs in your area and meet with college representatives who visit high school. The Golden Circle College Fair is the largest college fair in Iowa, with approximately 150 colleges represented.
Check with your high school counselor to register for the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT). These scores are used to determine National Merit Scholars.
Attend an ICAN College Planning Night at your high school. Ask your school counselor for the date and time.
Discuss with your parents and high school counselor what is important to you in a college (i.e., size, type, location, programs, facilities, cost, academic quality, etc.).
Begin gathering information about colleges that interest you and start a list of those you would like to visit.
Seniors
Register to take the October 25th ACT by September 19 and/ or Oct. SAT, if you have not already taken them. You may also retake the test if you are unhappy with your previous score. Check with your high school counselor or college admissions office before you retake the test. www.actstudent.org/start
Research scholarship possibilities at the library and high school counseling office. Ask your teachers, high school counselor and/or employers to write letters of recommendation for your admission and scholarship applications.
Attend college fairs in your area and meet with college representatives who visit your high school. The Golden Circle College Fair is the largest college fair in Iowa, with approximately 150 colleges represented.
Continue gathering information about colleges that interest you and begin a list of those that you may like to attend.
Parents
Play an active role. Keep the lines of communication open throughout your student's high school years. Talk to their teachers and counselor about their progress and any concerns that you have. Being involved can help them succeed.
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