College & University Application Sites
California students looking to apply to colleges and universities will want to pay attention to the following sites:
CCCApply for applying to California Community Colleges. Students may create accounts and apply to schools at any time, but should pay attention to the school's own registration dates.
Cal State Apply for applying to California State Universities. Applications for the next Fall are usually open between October 1st to November 30th.
UC Apply for students applying to University of California schools. Applications for the next Fall are usually open between October 1st to November 30th.
The Common App is used by most private universities, as well as many out-of-state schools such as Arizona State. Each school will have its own deadlines, but most students should apply to apply before October 31st.
Some schools have their own application process unrelated to any of the above.
Admissions Considerations
There are five considerations for admissions:
Grade Point Average. This is often the most important indicator for most colleges and universities. Some universities might accept a GPA as low as 2.0, but more selective schools will require increasingly high numbers.
Course Rigor. Schools prefer to see students taking the most rigorous courses available at their school.
Course Relevance. Programs in science and engineering fields will often have steeper requirements for math and science courses. College-prep courses are better choices than those which are not.
Test Scores. Many schools are test-optional or test-blind, but others still make use of the SAT and ACT as part of their admissions process. Students should aim to take at least one test in the spring of Junior year, and again in the fall of Senior year. The PSAT should be taken in fall of Junior year, if offered.
Holistic Profile. Applications for universities often include spaces for students to describe extracurricular activities and hobbies outside of school. Holding leadership positions, participating in varsity sports, and being involved in the community are all things that can strengthen an application.
Writing skills are especially important in helping to convey a strong holistic image, and for filling out the essays used for both admissions and scholarships.
Financial Aid Applications
California Student Aid Commission. Covers all steps in the process.
Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used by colleges and universities to determine financial need.
California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Students without SSNs should apply through here for financial aid.
WebGrants 4 Students. Students attending school in California should also complete a Cal Grant application here.
For information on scholarships, contact your counselor about being added to the Class of 2024 Senior Financial Aid & Scholarships Google Classroom.