How Will You Apply to College?

Applying to college has changed dramatically the past 15 years. In addition to no longer using paper applications, colleges have created different application decisions and deadlines.  

Early Decision (ED)

Early Decision is a binding agreement between the student, parents, school counselor and college. The contract stipulates that if offered admission, the student will withdraw all other applications and accept admission into that school.

A student would apply ED to a college if they knew it was their absolute top choice, especially at a school in which they might not be the strongest applicant. The ED applicant pool is much smaller than the Regular Decision pool. This allows for students to be compared with a fewer number of applicants, as only ED applications are compared, thus increasing a student's chance of admission. It can hurt a student if the student does not stand out amongst other applicants.


Early Action (EA)

This application deadline allows students to apply earlier to a particular college/university, usually on the first of November. In return, colleges agree to act on their application earlier, by the end of the calendar year. This is a plus for students because they will learn earlier if they are accepted to college. If denied or deferred, this provides additional time to reassess their college applications. As with ED, schools only compare EA applications when admitting students. Colleges again, prefer the EA process because they are able to accept a particular amount of students which will many times increase the probability of students accepting admission.

Restrictive/Single Choice Early Action

This is a newer entry into the college application process, generally seen in a highly selective college. This application option will allow students to apply 'early' to one college. The difference between this option and ED is that there is no binding acceptance agreement. Students ethically agree not to apply ED or EA to other colleges, in hopes of an early acceptance from a highly selective college. Once a student receives notification, they are free to apply to other colleges.

Regular Decision (RD)

This is the standard option for a student application. Some schools will offer a 'rolling admissions' option in RD. This means that schools will notify students days or weeks upon receiving a completed application. Other schools will notify students in the applicant pool on one date later in the application process (around March or April 1st).

TIPS: Always remember to pay attention to deadlines. Students should also pay attention to all aspects of their application files to ensure they are complete, such as letters of recommendations, essay supplements, fees, etc... Missing a deadline or a component of your file might mean missing out on an opportunity to attend the school of your choice.

There are more pluses and minuses to the application processes, contact us to learn which option is best for you.

Explaining How to Use the Common App When Applying to College

The Common Application, also known as the Common App, is an undergraduate college admission application shared among 517 member colleges and universities in the United States and 6 foreign countries. About one-third of these member institutions use the Common App as their exclusive admission application. Founded in 1975, the Common App is currently in its 4th edition.

Online Exclusive Application

The Common Application has two versions: first-year admission and transfer admission. Each of these applications are available exclusively online, paper copies cannot be submitted to member schools. The first day to begin the application for the following fall is August 1st. The commonality of the application allows for all entered information to be submitted to selected schools electronically via the Common Application website. A student may also create separate versions of the application for individual schools if they wish. Once the application is transmitted to a college online, it cannot be changed for that college. If the student would like to edit the application after submission, they must contact the college directly. The Common Application also allows the student to submit and track other components of their application such as supplements, payments, and school forms.

Holistic Review

The mission of this not-for-profit organization is to encourage member schools to create a 'holistic selection process' for student admission. This means a student is judged subjectively by each prospective school using such factors as essays, letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities along with objective factors such as class rank, standardized test scores and Grade Point Average (GPA). The Common App believe this holistic review allows for schools to promote equity and integrity in the college admission process. Only schools who accept the holistic admission criteria (not solely objective factors) are accepted into membership.

Essay Prompts

There are five essay prompts on the Common Application in which a student has the flexibility to choose to answer one. Five new questions were created for the 4th edition which began for the 2013-14 admission year. Along with new questions, the length of the essay remained at the 250 word minimum, but increased from 500 to a 650 maximum word limit. The essay prompts are the main aspect of the application. The student should allow the admission office to learn about their: values, uniqueness and creativity. The student should also be creative, reflective, expressive and honest about themselves, while portraying their writing and critical thinking skills.

Supplement Questions

Many member institutions require a 'Common App Supplement.' These are additional question(s) that are asked in order to complement a student's application. Many times, colleges will ask specific questions regarding the school or programs they have to offer. There are only two restrictions for a supplement question: that it does not re-ask questions already answered and that it does not violate the National Association for College Admissions Counselors Statement of Principles and Good Practice.

If you would like more advice or tips on the Common Application, contact us.

Create a Dynamic Resume for College

Summer is almost here, but that should not mean that it is time for a high school student to rest. Rather, it should mean the student should work on activities that have been low on their priority list during the busy school year. One of these items should be to create or edit their high school resume. Here are some suggestions on what a student should have on their resume.

Involvement  

If your student has not already done so, they should get involved. Every school has a plethora of sports, clubs and activities. If students are unsure about a club's activities, they should seek out the sponsor or attend a meeting. Remember, students are not obligated to attend the next meeting. Colleges seek students who actively participate in a variety of activities. Joining a school activity can help students expand their circle of friends, establish a college resume and perhaps even find their passion.

Leadership Positions

Colleges do not want to see a plethora of activities on a student's resume, but rather a few in which they are deeply and passionately involved. Perhaps a student can show off their leadership qualities by becoming the captain of their athletic team. This does not mean they have to be the best player on the team, but the hardest working player or the motivator. Perhaps they can work hard in an attempt to become first chair in their section in band, or take on roles of their club/student council with their eyes on the club presidency. Colleges want dynamic students on their campus who can succeed when being challenged.

Rigorous Coursework

Over the years I have had conversations with numerous college admissions representatives (or the same people that read your student's college application). One of most important factors colleges use to evaluate an applicant’s admissions are their high school transcripts. Each representative examines the high school transcripts to assess how much a student has challenged themselves. They especially look for Honors or Advanced Placement level coursework. Admissions representatives understand that these elite courses are not for every student, nor do they want to see poor marks on the transcripts. The suggestion was given for a high school student to enroll in the hardest courses that will challenge themselves, while experiencing success.

Internships/Job

"If my high school student does not get involved at school, they will NEVER get into college!" It is true colleges want students involved, but perhaps school activities are not of interest to the student. Yet, students still need to be involved in something other than the 'Couch Potato Club.' Perhaps they can seek employment in a field of potential college major/career interest. This will provide invaluable experience in the field, while being exposed to everyday tasks. If a job is not available at a particular company, perhaps there are summer internship opportunities or even a job shadow program. This will also help a student to build communication skills and high school resume, while exposing them to the concept of networking with potential employers.

Do you have other ideas on what a high school student can do to create a dynamic college resume? Leave a comment and let us know.  Need help with your high school student in the college selection or application process, Contact Us.

Decoding the Financial Aid Letter

As the May 1st deadline approaches for students to inform colleges of their intent to enroll, it is the perfect time to decode the financial aid letter. Listed below are four types of 'awards' found on a typical financial aid letter.

1. Scholarships

A scholarship is an award based upon student merit, meaning, students have accomplished something exceptional. This is on their high school academic record or their standardized test score (ACT, SAT, etc...). Other types of scholarships are based upon a student's unique talent, such as their athletic performance or musical ability. Scholarships are awarded for various lengths (first year only, renewable for four years, etc...). Make sure you investigate their stipulations. No matter the length, scholarships do not need to be repaid to the school.

2. Grants

These are similar to scholarships as they do not need to be repaid, but they are based upon 'need.' These can from the institution in which you were accepted or from the federal government. There are 3 common federal grants:

• Federal Pell Grant: Up to $5,500 awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. 
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant: In addition to the Pell Grant, this award is up to $4,000 for families that demonstrate exceptional financial need. 
• TEACH Grant: Up to $4,000 is provided to students who take coursework in education. Students then agree to complete four years serving children in low-income communities. 

3. Federal Work-Study

This program is designed for students to earn the awarded amount in an on or off campus job. There are ample campus jobs reserved for federal work-study students. Students cannot earn in excess of the amount offered on the award letter. Most common positions are working in the admissions office, school cafeteria or recreation center.

4. Loans

Many time, in the financial award letter, schools will package in loans to help defray the remaining cost of attendance. The four type of main loans are:

• Direct Subsidized Loan: These are the first loans awarded based upon financial need. They are given for a 10 year repayment period and accruing interest is paid by the Department of Education (DOE) until 6 months after a student leaves school. The loan limit is $3,500 to $5,500, depending upon the year in school.
• Federal Perkins Loan: These loans are in addition to the above loan, if the government deems there is still financial need. The interest rate is slightly higher, but again, interest is paid by the DOE provided a student is in school. The loan limit is up to $5,500 for undergraduate students.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loan: These loans are not based upon financial need. The borrower is responsible for all interest. The amount awarded is based upon grade level and dependency status. 
• Direct PLUS Loan: This loan is for a student's parents or guardians. It is not based upon need and the borrower assumes all interest. The interest rate is slightly higher, but generally it will be lower than an outside private (or bank) loan. The maximum amount borrowed is the cost of attendance, minus any financial aid received. 

Remember, when comparing financial aid award letters, do not compare the amount the school is awarding the student. Compare the financial commitment of the family between schools and the amount of loans the family will have to repay.

If you have questions regarding your family's financial aid award letter or how to prepare for the rising cost of college, contact us.

The 5 Cards of a College Experience

Otterbein University is known as a college of opportunity since its founding in 1847. This progressive university takes pride in the fact that the first two graduates of this Westerville, Ohio campus were women. Located 15 minutes from Columbus, the 2400 undergraduates have access to  internships, job opportunities and student activities. Although a suburban campus, Otterbein offers students a quintessential small college experience.

Equestrian Program

The Austin E. Knowlton Center for Equine Science, a $5 million equine facility makes Otterbein a leader in the equestrian field. This state-of-the-art facility allows up to 60 student to board and use their horses in the indoor riding stable. This impressive complex has not only enhanced their equestrian program, but provides students the opportunity to study unique majors such as Equine Preveterinary Medicine and Equine Business Management.

The Equine Pre-Veterinary Medicine program prepares students for graduate school programs and colleges of veterinary medicine. Included in the program are multiple internship opportunities, along with employment at Otterbein's own equine facility.

The Equine Business Management Program offers students the opportunity to learn about careers in the equine world. Such careers in the equine field using this degree might be: manager of an equine facility, an equine insurance adjusters and breeding farm administrator.

Theatre Program

Otterbein Theatre and Dance department is nationally renowned. The program attracts students from across the nation. Amongst the thousands of applicants each year, the department invites approximately 400 students to a live audition. This competitive department accepts only 4 males and 4 females to earn a BFA in the acting and musical theatre program. A limited number of students will also be accepted into the BFA Design &Technology program. Students can also choose to earn a BA in Theatre, which offers more flexibility as students can study more than one area of theatre.

Shared Government

Since 1920, administrators at Otterbein administrators believe that the running of the school should involve the students. The board of trustees has an elected student representative that maintains equal  voting rights on every matter of the school. This is something truly unique amongst college hierarchies.

Five Card Experience

Every Otterbein Cardinal is guaranteed the following experiences while at school.:

1. Participation in undergrad research 
2. Involvement in community engagement. 
3. Contribution in a global engagement and/or an intercultural experience. Many OU students will take advantage of studying abroad at one of the 30 partner universities. 
4. Internships and Professional Experience. Located 15 minutes outside of the state capital, finding a place to hone your skills while an undergrad is not difficult. OU prides itself on their student internship assistance program on campus.
5. Leadership and citizenship. These experiences combined will allow Otterbein students to leave school with an experiential transcripts proclaiming what they were able to participate in, while attending school. 

These five guarantees allow students the experience and training for jobs to be created in an ever changing world. With a strong liberal arts core curriculum, Otterbein graduates are well rounded and well prepared for life after Otterbein.

If you would like to know more about Otterbein University, or other colleges, contact us.

UBP '14

The Annual Ultimate Blog Party is here!

Frog Fountains at Texas Christian University (TCU)

Welcome to In and Around the Quad, an ongoing discussion created by Thomas J. Jaworski, founder and lead consultant of Quest College Consulting. In this blog, I will help guide families through the college admissions process. Did you know:

• For the 2012-13 academic year, 151 colleges charged annual tuition, fees, room and board totaling more than $50,000, according to College Board? 
• There are over 500 Common Application members in 46 states and the District of Columbia, as well as in France, Germany, Italy, United Kingdom, and Switzerland?
• As of January 1st, you can begin and submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) without having finished your 2013 Federal Income Taxes?
• Even though many colleges and universities are changing to Score Choice, SuperScore and/or becoming test optional, your ACT/SAT score should align closer with the median 75% than the median 25% when comparing your admission prospects for a particular school?  

Would you like to learn more about the college process or understand the above statements? Come back weekly as I will post advice, strategy, tips, news and notes from around the college world.

Feel free to contact us with specific questions, subscribe to our E-Newsletter or take our College Finder Quiz.

Unfamiliar Universities in the NCAA Tournament

This past weekend, the names of 68 colleges were discussed during the opening rounds of the NCAA men's basketball tournament. We decided to provide some background information on a few schools that might be unfamiliar to college bound high school families.

Mercer University

The Bears of Mercer University were the talk of the nation on Friday afternoon after upsetting Duke. Mercer is home to nearly 4,500 undergraduate students. This Macon, Georgia school was founded in 1833 with an endowment from Baptist leader, Jesse Mercer. Today this secular school, which started with just 39 students has 3 campuses. The main campus located in Macon, a Savannah campus that houses the School of Medicine and graduate/professional education campus in Atlanta. The Princeton Review consistently ranks it in the top 10% of all colleges and universities in North America, stating in 2014 that "Mercer's exceptional reputation springs from its sound academic programs, excellent faculty, and modern facilities."

University of Dayton

Upsets of both Ohio State and Syracuse propelled the Flyers of the University of Dayton into the Sweet 16. UD, a private, research university located in Dayton, Ohio, was founded in 1850 by priests and brothers in the tradition of the Society of Mary and is one of three Marianist universities in the U.S. Located 69 miles from the state's capital (and Ohio State) in Columbus, UD was originally home to 14 boys and called St. Mary School for Boys. It now has over 8,000 undergraduate students on 388 acres along the shores of the Great Miami River. The University of Dayton ranks 115th on the 2013 U.S. News & World Report’s list of “National Universities while Entrepreneur magazine and The Princeton Review ranked Dayton’s undergraduate program in entrepreneurship 18th in the nation.

Stephen F. Austin University

As a number 12 seed, Stephen F. Austin University shocked Virginia Commonwealth University in overtime to advance to the third round. Named after 'the Father of Texas', this Nacogdoches, Texas school was established in 1921 as a teachers college. Today, nearly 13,000 students reside on part of the homestead of another founding Texas father, Thomas Jefferson Rusk. It is one of four public universities in Texas that is independent of the University of Texas system.  In 2011, SFAU was ranked 71st in the Best Colleges in the West Region by U.S. News & World Report.

Creighton University

National Division I scoring leader, and the coach's son, Doug McDermott, helped propel Creighton University into the national lexicon during the men's college basketball season. Creighton University is a private, research university located just outside the downtown business district in Omaha, Nebraska. Its 132 acre campus is home to over 4,100 undergraduate students, with nearly fifty percent traveling over 400 miles to attend Creighton. The school was founded in 1878 as a gift to honor prominent Omaha businessman Edward Creighton. Today the school is affiliated with the religious order Society of Jesus and is governed by the Jesuit core values of pursuing justice, striving for excellence and service to others.