ACT: a standardized college admission test that features four main sections: English, math, reading and science, and an optional essay section.

Admission Rate: the percentage of the total applicants the school accepts for admissions.

Coed: a term used to describe a college or university that offers the integrated education of male and female students in same environment.

Early Action (EA)/Early Decision (ED): an option to submit college application before the regular deadline, students will get admission decision from college earlier than usual.

FAFSA: “Free Application for Federal Student Aid.” This is a form to apply for financial aid sources that help many students afford the cost of college.

Fee Waiver: a request to the college to remove the application fee.

Financial Aid: money given or loaned to student to help pay for college that can come from federal and state governments, colleges, and private organizations – check the FAFSA section for more.

GPA: student’s grade point average, computed by assigning a point value to each grade the student earns.

Letter of Recommendation: a letter of support/recommendation written by someone else (usually a teacher, a boss, a mentor, etc.).

Major: the area of discipline a student plans to study while attending college.

Minor: like a college major but requires a smaller course load to obtain.

Out-of-pocket: How much money you (and your family if applicable) will be contributing directly to the tuition cost per year/semester.

Priority Date or Deadline: applications submitted before the date will receive preference, but students who submit their application afterward can still be considered for admission.

SAT: a standardized college admission test that features three main sections: Math, reading and writing, which includes a written essay.

Transcript: a record of the work a student does throughout high school (usually has a list of classes taken, grades for each class, and a GPA).

Undergraduate: college student who is working toward an associate or a bachelor's degree.