If you’re a junior or sophomore in high school, college application season will be here before you know it. And there’s a lot to learn as you navigate the process of researching, visiting, and applying to colleges. If you need an overview on the basics, review our presentation below. It includes tips on evaluating schools, details on each component of the college application, and resources to help you through the next several months.

1. MASSACHUSETTS EDUCATIONAL FINANCING AUTHORITY
THE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
BASICS

2. Developing The College List
• What is the student looking for?
• Do your research and find your fit
• Consider:
− Student’s academics
− How your family will pay for it
− What type/size of campus setting
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3. Pay attention to:
• Culture
• Size
• Setting
• Academics
• Student activities
• Housing
Informal & Formal Campus Visits
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4. College Fairs
•View the college list beforehand
•Have a plan of attack
•Start with the info booth
•Attend info sessions
•Spring fairs: NACACnet.org & NEACAC.org
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5. College Application Options
•Regular Decision
•Early Action
•Early Decision
•Rolling Admission
•Open Admission
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6. College Application Types
•Common App
•Universal College App
•Coalition App
•College website online app
•Paper
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7. Standardized Tests
•PSAT for practice
•Most schools take SAT or ACT
•Are SAT Subject Tests needed?
•Consider AP Exams
•900+ test-optional schools in the U.S.
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8. Activity List Components
•Extracurriculars
•Family responsibilities
•Employment
•Title & position
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9. Essay Guidance
•Be Meaningful
•Be Personal
•Start early
•Include life-shaping experiences
•Proofread
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10. Letters of Recommendation
•Follow school guidelines
•Ask early
•Ask 11th grade teachers
•Write thank you notes
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11. Interviews
•Be prepared for open-ended questions
•Know your reasons for applying
•Ask thoughtful questions
•Cover the basics
•Be yourself
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12. Stay Organized with Our College Admissions Toolkit
Download it now
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13. YourPlanForTheFuture.org Benefits
•FREE online college & career planning
•Interests assessments
•Career exploration
•College search
•Scholarships
•Personalized portfolio
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14. Paying for College in MA: You Have Options
•Tuition Break
•MassTransfer: Gen Ed Foundation
•MassTransfer: A2B Degree
•MassTransfer: A2B & Commonwealth Commitment
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15. Applications for Financial Aid
•Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
•CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE
•College-specific financial aid applications
*Check college websites for requirements
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16. •Net Price Calculators
•College Navigator
•College Scorecard
•College Board
Free College Planning Resources
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17. (800) 449-MEFA (6332)
info@mefa.org
MEFA
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