College Resources
College 101
College Search
Not sure where to start your college search? These college search engines can help narrow down your college search. There are over 3500 colleges in the country--and this will help narrow your search.
College Search Tool, College Board- Big Future College Search
The Princeton Review: College Search
Peterson’s Guide to College Search: LINK
College Admissions:
What does college admissions look for in an applicant? While there seems to be a lot of emphasis on the standardized tests (SAT/ACT) you should know that colleges look at student applications comprehensively. This is good for you! Admissions will look at a combination of: Rigor of coursework pursued in HS; grades; extracurricular activities (in school and out of school); volunteer activities; employment; letters of recommendation; essays (quality and content--admission reps want to know who you are) and test scores.
Articles about this topic-:
College Choice: LINK
US News: 6 Ways to Stand Out
Princeton Review: What Looks Good on College Applications
STARS PROGRAM:
The Small Town and Rural Students college network is dedicated to working with high school students to access organizations to widen the pathways to higher education for students in rural schools. LINK
Standardized Tests (SAT/ACT
Standardized tests are used as part of the admissions process/evaluation for 4-year colleges. Community colleges do not require the SAT or ACT.
From the Princeton Review-Many students and parents begin the college prep process by comparing the ACT and SAT tests. The SAT and ACT generally cover the same topics. Both ACT and SAT scores are used for college admissions decisions and awarding merit-based scholarships. Most colleges do not prefer one test over the other. Neither the SAT or the ACT is harder than the other. Different students tend to do better on one test than the other
Princeton Review outlines the differences between the tests and includes links for practice. LINK-Difference between SAT and ACT
SAT-Registration and Dates- LINK
ACT-Registration and Dates- LINK
College Degrees and College Credits:
What is a credit hour and how many do I need to earn an Associates and/or a Bachelor's Degree?
College Fair
Typically there is a college fair field trip in March. Due to current COVID status it is recommended Junior check out the Virtual College Fairs.
Several dates to choose from: College Fair LINK
College Visitations
Colleges are doing a variety of admissions events to help students learn more about their college. Options include:
-virtual visitations
-virtual tours
-In-person admissions presentations and tours
-zoom meetings with an admissions counselor
Registration will be required. Go to the admissions page for the college you are interested in and check out the options.
In the Fall, we will arrange some college admissions field trips!
College Applications:
We will be working in the Fall about the college application process. If you want to check out these resources or start earlier you can! BCS teachers do spend some time in September on college essays.
Common App
What is Common App: LINK
List of colleges using Common App: https://www.commonapp.org/explore/
College essay prompts: https://www.commonapp.org/apply/essay-prompts
Start your Common application: https://www.commonapp.org/
SUNY
Apply SUNY Applications: https://www.suny.edu/attend/apply-to-suny/
Apply MCC: https://www.monroecc.edu/quick-links/apply/
Apply FLCC: https://www.flcc.edu/