College Application Process

To fill in all the blanks on the application form itself, you may have to dig up documents or get answers from your parents. Make sure to check for errors prior to submission. Many colleges in Virginia use the Common Application, which allows you to complete one application online and submit it to several colleges. A few colleges, like James Madison University, use the Coalition Application which allows students to create a 'Locker' which is similar to a portfolio.

During this portion, you will also be asked to provide a resume or list of activities, including any extracurricular, volunteer involvement, or work you did in high school. Make sure to track any volunteer activities you have accumulated ahead of time. For resume assistance, please see Ms. Scott or Ms. Chambers.

Normally most colleges require that you send scores from the SAT, ACT, and/or possibly SAT Subject Tests. However, because of how difficult it has been for students to take these tests during COVID-19, many colleges have moved to a test optional policy for the 2021/2022 application year. When you register for a test, it will give you the option of sending your scores to colleges. Colleges accept scores only from the testing organizations themselves.

Visit the testing organization's website for more information, and learn more about the role of testing in admission. For a list of upcoming test dates, fees, study resources, and tips for doing well on these tests, visit the SAT/ACT tab at the top of the page.

If you need assistance with registration, please meet with your college adviser to help you with this process. Also, if you are a Free and Reduced Lunch student, you are eligible for fee waivers - if this is you, contact Ms. Scott for a fee waiver! Don't wait - do it now!!

You will notice that the SAT now contains an optional writing section. Click here to see if your colleges of interest either require or recommend this section. Hint: Many colleges in Virginia neither require nor recommend the essay!

Your essays are one of the most important components of your application because it's a chance for you to give admission officers a better idea of your character and strengths, outside of your grades and test scores. It lets them really get to know YOU as a person. Remember to proofread your essays carefully before you send them in. It is also recommended that you have someone read it over. Please feel free to ask Ms. Scott to review your college essays!

Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

Transcripts are records of the classes you’ve taken and your grades is one of the most important parts of your application. You will need to send an official BCHS transcript to all the schools you are applying to and if you have ever taken a Dual Enrollment class before, you will also need to send off your official SVCC transcript.

To send your high school transcripts through Parchment, set up your Parchment account through the email sent to you, request an unofficial transcript view for yourself, after reviewing your unofficial transcripts request official transcripts be sent to each college you applied to.

If you cannot find your Parchment code, please contact Ms. Thomas in the main office.

Many colleges require letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who know you well. Ask your references well in advance of the deadlines to write you a recommendation (at least 2 weeks before the letter must be submitted). You will also want to give them a resume and/or short written summary of your achievements to help them write about you.

Best practice is to ask your recommenders in person; however, while we are virtual because of COVID-19, please compose a personalized email to your recommenders, or call and ask them over the phone!

How to Get a Great Letter of Recommendation

At the end of your college application, it will likely ask for you to pay a fee. These fees vary by college and are nonrefundable. Students who qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch are eligible for fee waivers. Also, if you have used a fee waiver for the SAT and gotten your scores back, you have already been given 4 college app fee waivers that are available in your College Board account. Please see your counselor or college adviser for assistance.

If you’re applying to music, art or theater programs, the colleges may want to see samples of your work. This means you may need to audition or send portfolios or videos showing your artistic ability as part of your application. Check with college websites or call their admissions team for more information.