Be sure to check the home page of the counseling blog regularly for updated information about colleges, scholarships, and MORE!
College Visits
- Students should begin to visit colleges in the spring of their junior year and during the summer between their junior and seniors years.
- Students are permitted one excused absence for a pre-approved college visit in the spring of their junior year and two excused absences for pre-approved college visits during their senior year.
- The college visit form is available in the counseling office and must be signed and dated by a college official at the time of the visit.
- Return the form to the attendance window upon returning to school.
- Throughout the school year, various college recruiters will come to SCHS during 7th period. Be sure to stop by the counseling office to get more information about their colleges.
- Most colleges also host visit days on campus. Check the counseling blog for specific dates.
College Applications
- Students should check with individual colleges and scholarship committees for specific deadlines. Seniors should plan to complete all applications and gather additional documentation by October 31.
- College application fees may be waived for students who qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch. Inquire with individual colleges for more information. Mrs. Payne can provide documentation for colleges that will accept it.
ACT/SAT
- All SCHS students take the ACT during the spring of their junior year. Students can register online to participate in additional administrations of the ACT or SAT.
- ACT and SAT fee waiver forms are available in the counseling office for students who qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch.
Transcripts & Recommendations
- All colleges will require official transcripts. Some colleges and scholarship programs will also require recommendation letters.
- Transcript requests must be submitted in writing or online from the student/parent. Forms are available in the counseling office and on the SCHS website.
- Each official transcript request costs $5.00.
- Counselor and teacher recommendation requests must be turned in 3 weeks in advance.
- Recommendation request forms are available in the counseling office.
- Recommendation request forms must be accompanied by a student resume or list of accomplishments/interests/future goals to assist the counselor in writing a proper recommendation.
- Once a recommendation is complete, it will be mailed directly to the college.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – www.fafsa.ed.gov
For more information – http://studentaid.ed.gov/fafsa/filling-out - You will need to file your FAFSA for all forms of financial assistance including loans, grants, and scholarships. Completion of the FAFSA is a requirement of many scholarship programs.
- You should file your FAFSA in the spring as soon as you and your parents receive your W2.
- All students should complete a FAFSA even if you feel that you may not qualify for assistance.