FAQ – College & Career Center
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What is Irvington's High School Code?
050-968
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What tests are required for students applying to four year colleges?
The SAT or ACT is required for most four year colleges. In addition, the University of California and some private/independent colleges require the SAT Subject Test. UC requires two different subjects of your choice. If taking the ACT, and planning to apply to a UC campus, you must add the writing option.
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What is the A-G list?
Academic courses required for admission to a four year college. 4 years of English 3 years of Math (Algebra, Geometry, AlgII/Trig (4 years recommended) 2 years of Lab Science (3 years recommended) 2 years Foreign Language (3 years recommended) 2 years Social Science 1 Fine/Performing Art 1 College Prep Elective (be sure to check the UC approved course list for a list of accepted college prep electives)
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What career related activities are available at Irvington?
All students through their English classes spend time in the Career Center doing Career and College related activities. Freshman take part in a Library/Career Center orientation and receive college and career information. Sophomores spend a week in the Career Center, take a career assessment, research careers and complete a four year plan. Juniors spend two days researching colleges and careers and completing an online career assessment. Seniors are seen several times throughout the year for college, financial aid and scholarship information.
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Can you help students find jobs?
The Career Center does have a job board. Part time employment opportunities are posted and occasionally employers come on campus to recruit students. (Great America, City Year, In-N-Out Burger) There is also a city wide student job fair in the Spring.
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What about internships?
Any internship opportunities are posted and announced in the student bulletin and on the website whenever possible.
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What's the best way to find scholarship money for college?
There are several good search sites; FastWeb.com and Wiredscholar.com just to name 2. Both ask students a series of questions, then email you when scholarships matching your criteria become available. The Career Center does receive many local and national scholarships through out the year, check the scholarship section of this site, or the Career Center for up to date listings. Irvington also has several scholarships just for our students. Those will be posted in February & March. Many employers offer scholarships to children of their employees. Check with your employer to see if they may offer this benefit.
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What qualifications do you need for most scholarships?
Most scholarships are based on academics, leadership and service. They can be merit or financial need based. While it is true that there are millions scholarship dollars offered each year, seeking them out, filing out the applications and keeping on top of the deadlines can be a full time job.
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Early Decision vs. Early Action
ED and EA allow you to both apply and learn the college's decision earlier than regular admission. Early Decision is binding. If accepted, you must attend that school and withdraw any applications sent to other schools. You won't be able to compare financial aid offers. Early Actions is not binding. If accepted, you may compare admissions and financial aid offers from other schools and wait to commit to the college later in the year. Some schools now offer Single-Choice Early Action-this option is similar to early action, except that you agree to not apply early to any other colleges.