College Readiness

Learn about the tools and resources Smithville High School provide to help our students prepare for a college education.

COLLEGE READINESS

College testing DATES

What is college Readiness?

College readiness refers to the level of preparation a student needs to enroll and succeed in courses at a postsecondary institution (such as a college or university). It encompasses a range of academic skills, knowledge, behaviors, and attitudes. Here's a more detailed look at what college readiness involves:

Academic Preparedness

Core Subject Proficiency: Mastery of key academic areas, including English, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information.
Reading and Writing Skills: Proficiency in reading comprehension and essay writing, necessary for college-level coursework.
Mathematical Skills: Competence in algebra, geometry, and sometimes higher-level math, depending on the intended field of study.

Standardized Testing

College Entrance Exams: Scores on standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, or other exams required by colleges for admission.

Advanced Coursework

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Completion of AP courses and exams can demonstrate college readiness and sometimes earn college credit.
Dual Enrollment: Taking college-level courses while still in high school, earning both high school and college credit.

Academic Behaviors

Time Management: Ability to manage time effectively, balancing academic workload with other responsibilities.
Study Skills: Development of effective study habits and strategies for retaining and applying information.
Self-Discipline: Demonstrating motivation, persistence, and the ability to work independently.

College Knowledge

Application Process: Understanding how to apply to colleges, including completing applications, writing essays, and obtaining recommendation letters.
Financial Aid: Knowledge of how to apply for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
College Culture: Awareness of what to expect in a college environment, including class structures, professor expectations, and campus life.

GRaduation toolkit

What courses do I have to take in order to graduate from high school?

The TEA Graduation Toolkit provides information on planning during the high school years and beyond. It also offers different resources and information that are very helpful! If you have additional questions regarding graduation requirements or specific endorsements, please contact your high school counselor.

TEA Graduation Toolkit

scholarships

LOCAL Scholarships

Graduates of Smithville High School are fortunate in having a large number of local businesses, individuals, and civic-minded service-oriented organizations that take pride in providing scholarships to students.

The scholarships included vary in value, eligibility requirements, and selection procedures. Some require evidence of high scholastic performance while others are based on the applicant’s intended course of study, special talent, or financial need. They also vary in methods used to select the recipients. Therefore, it is important that applicants carefully review the requirements for each scholarship.

-Local Scholarship Update: All forms are updated as I receive them.

Local Scholarships

Non- Local Scholarships

More Non- Local Specific Scholarships- Monthly Deadlines

FInancial Aid/FAFSA

In addition to applying for scholarships, students should complete one of two application options for financial aid. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Texas Application for State Aid (TASFA). Students who are Texas residents but are unable to apply for the FAFSA should fill out the TASFA. The TASFA can only be submitted to schools students have been admitted to and needs to be completed as soon as possible, due to very limited funds that are distributed on a first come, first serve basis.

Financial Aid link

In the fall of 2024, the FAFSA will go back to the original October 1st opening, to qualify for institutional scholarships, grants, and loans. Although the FAFSA has no deadline, students are encouraged to complete their financial aid application by the state priority deadline January 15th.