Private/Out-of-state Schools
Requirements vary from college to college.
Do your own research and talk to your counselor for specific requirements private/out-of-state colleges and find out the process they follow for sending documents at your high school.
Applications and deadlines vary. Many are due in the winter term and some have earlier deadlines for scholarship considerations.
The Common App is one application to apply to multiple colleges. This is a great option if you are applying to multiple private and out-of-state colleges.
Some require teacher and counselor letter of recommendations.
Most require personal statements or essays and supplements.
There may be more financial aid available through CSS Profile (through college board), private scholarships, or WUE grants.
Private Colleges
While public universities are funded by the government, private colleges are supported by their endowment, donors and student fees. Although the price tag may be higher, private colleges often give out excellent financial aid awards. If you’re willing to look outside of California, your options could increase significantly. Private colleges often offer smaller class sizes, more access to professors and greater flexibility to design your own academic program.
Applying to Private Colleges
Most private colleges (and some public and international universities) use the Common App. A few colleges may require the Coalition Application.
Out-of-State Colleges
Are you considering public universities outside of California? The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) connects California students with opportunities to study in neighboring states at a reduced tuition rate. Instead of paying the full out-of-state tuition (often 2-3 times the in-state rate), students pay 150% (or less) of the in-state rate. Students and families may find the WUE rate to be reasonable. Plus, there may be additional scholarships available to students.
Western Undergraduate Exchange