US University Resources & App Systems
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/get-in/applying-101/college-admission-glossary
https://www.mycoalition.help/hc/en-us/sections/115003575188-Getting-Started-with-MyCoalition
https://apply.universityofcalifornia.edu/my-application/login
Follow these guides (see links above) to get your process underway. Here's a basic timeline for your SENIOR Year:
September:
1) Share your Short List with Overseas College Counselors
Balance of Safety / Match / Realistic Reach on list
Important discussions with family have taken place regarding Region & Cost (Plans A, B & C . . .)
Research was thorough and necessary details are listed (App Deadlines, App Systems, Test Reqs, )
2) Adjust Shortlist based on Feedback from CCD
3) Complete basic information in Common App / Coalition / Specific Uni App Systems
3) Request Teacher Letters of Recommendation (complete form provided last spring)
4) Complete necessary essays (see links below)
5) Check each university for additional requirements for a complete application.
6) Organize your Personal Email account that you will use for all university communication. (DO NOT use your MEF email account for this process.)
October - June of Senior Year
7) Stay up to date with all communications from universities you've applied to.
As you can see September will be BUSY!
For further guidance, please email for an appointment AFTER you have gone through all the information we've shared with you in GC and via email.
Please keep in mind some universities don't use either CA or Coalition, so you will need to complete their independent or system specific application (for example UC schools).
All the Best,
MEF IS CCD
Dear US University Applicants,
As you prepare to send your applications off to US universities, you will want to also get a jump start on the financial aid component of the process. Even if you don't necessarily think you will 'need' financial aid, you will still need to complete the documentation in order to be considered for merit scholarships or any type of grant.
The first place to start the financial aid / student loan process is to complete the FAFSA. (You may also need to complete the CSS - depending upon the university.) You'll need your parents' help with both of these. Once you've completed the FAFSA, you can then discover what types of Student Loans you qualify for.
There are LOADS of resources online to help you better understand the process of both completing the FAFSA and identifying the best types of student loans. Your parents may also be eligible for 'parent loans' :)
Please follow the links below to get a better understanding of what is available and what the short- and long-term advantages and disadvantages might be.
Understanding Loans - In DETAIL
Understanding Loans - In Brief
I hope this helps!
Check out this great resource:
https://www.fairtest.org/university/optional