Preparing for Senior Year Class of 2022 Packet

Preparing for Senior Year Class of 2022

Packet Guide Contents 1. Senior 2022 Monthly Checklist 2. Tips for College Admissions 3. Definition of Admissions Options 4. Assured Admissions Examples Chart 5. What Does Test Optional Mean? 6. Should you take the ACT or SAT? 7. Helpful Information and Websites

Senior 2022 Monthly Checklist ● Use this checklist as a guide of what to expect this summer and senior year in order to stay organized. ● You will receive an updated version with specific dates next fall, but make note of what month things will occur (like cap and gown orders!) ● Review the items shaded in gray on the front side of the checkliststart career and college exploration now! ● Get organized if you will need letters of recommendation.

Tips For College Admissions ● Use this cheat sheet to learn about each process involved with applying to college. ● Some college applications open as early as July for Texas colleges; Common Application opens August 1 st. ● ALWAYS check admissions requirements on the website of the college or university you are applying to. ● Texas colleges and universities require TSI compliance.

Definitions of Admission Options ● Understand the difference between non-restrictive and restrictive applications (sometimes referred to as non-binding and binding) ● Early Decision and Early Action deadlines are very early: Oct-Nov ● Regular Decision deadlines vary by institution, so check the admissions website and compare to financial aid deadlines (which are sometimes earlier which means you need to apply by that earlier date to qualify for financial aid).

Assured Admissions Chart ● This chart is an example of what assured admissions looked like in 20192020. ● Texas law allows students in the top 10% of their class to apply under assured admissions (exception is UT-Austin=6%). Must also graduate with an endorsement and distinguished. ● Always check the admissions requirements of the college to be sure that you meet the updated requirements. ● Test Optional has become an option due to COVID for numerous colleges. ● Review the SAT test scores you have from the March school day test to see if you already meet some assured admissions.

What Does Test Optional Mean? ● Test Optional does not require you to submit ACT or SAT test scores. ● COVID-19 caused almost all colleges and universities to offer this option this last year. Some colleges are continuing that option for the Class of 2022, but you must check the admission requirements for each college. ● If your SAT scores are similar to the average scores of a college, it may be benefit you to apply with scores. You can always call the admissions office and talk to someone if you are not sure. ● Test scores can help you earn academic scholarships. ● Test scores can exempt you from TSI requirements in Texas.

ACT or SAT? ● All Juniors were provided the school day SAT in March- log into your College Board account to access your scores. ● Scores may be required for admissions and for scholarships. ● Take advantage of submitting scores for free when you register for tests. ● Review free test practice material online to determine if you want to retake the SAT or take the ACT. ● Free and reduced lunch students have access to test fee waivers- see your counselor for a waiver. ● LEARN offers test prep camps and test fee waivers as well.

Helpful Info. and Websites ● This presentation and numerous resources can be found on the Lubbock High counselor website: https: //www. lubbockisd. org/Page/2744 ● Follow @Be. AWesterner for college, career, military, and scholarship information regularly. ● Start career exploration on Texas Career Check and Big Future now so you can start researching colleges this summer before applications open. ● Students interested in applying to extremely competitive colleges should explore the Fair Opportunity Project College Admissions Guide and Yale Admissions podcast.

LEARN TRIO program assisting students with FAFSA completions and college applications. Contact information can be found on LHS Counselor website: https: //www. lubbockisd. org/Page/4793 FAFSA, TSAFA or opt-out completion will be a graduation requirement for all seniors of the Class of 2022.

LISD Fire Academy update ● Changed back to seniors only ● 4 periods long ● Other requirements ● Application available from your counselor ● Info Day: May 1 st - Flyer was emailed to all current Juniors and parents