2017–18 COLLEGE GUIDE - UtahFutures.org · 2017–18 College Guide | 6 Earning college credit in high school is a great way to get a head start on your college education. It’s

PREPARING FOR COLLEGE

CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLLEGE

HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE

EARN COLLEGE CREDIT IN HIGH SCHOOL · TAKE THE RIGHT CLASSES · GRADE-BY-GRADE CHECKLISTS

HOW TO DETERMINE THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU · UTAH COLLEGE DIRECTORY · COLLEGE FACTS AT A GLANCE

SCHOLARSHIP TIPS · SUBMITTING THE FAFSA · STUDENT LOANS—WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ·GRANTS & WORK-STUDY

2017–18 COLLEGE GUIDE

1 | StepUpUtah.com

StepUp to Higher Education is an outreach initiative of the State of Utah that empowers 8th through 12th grade

students and their families to prepare for college.

StepUp believes every Utah student should pursue education after high school, whether that be a one-year certificate, two-year degree, four-year degree, or more.

StepUp provides programs and resources to encourage college preparation and success, as well as training and

materials for school counselors.

For more information, visit us at StepUpUtah.com or on social media:

@StepUpUtah

A publication of the Utah System of Higher Education. For more information, visit StepUpUtah.com. Paid for, in part, by a grant from the U.S.

Department of Education. However, the contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not

assume endorsement by the federal government.

Thanks to the Utah higher education institutions for providing the photos used in this publication:

BYU—pg. 29; DSU—pgs. 8, 29; LDSBC—pgs. 7, 30; SLCC—pgs. 3, 30; Snow—pgs. 5, 20, 21, 25, 31; SUU—pgs. 6, 31; UCAT—pg. 32; USU—

pgs. 11-12, 14,17, 18, 23, 27, 33, front cover; UofU—pg. 32; UVU—pgs. 15, 33; Westminster—pgs. 16, 19, 34; and WSU—pg. 34.

2017–18 College Guide | 2

Inside the guide . . .

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Preparing for college:Take the right classes.

Choosing a collegeWhat are current students saying?

Paying for collegeIt’s possible.

Grade-by-grade checklistWhat to do and when to do it.

GET EXCITED ABOUT YOUR FUTURE!

Where do you see yourself in the future—as a business owner, nurse, lawyer, mechanic, computer programmer, veterinarian, teacher?

With college, the possibilities are endless. College helps you step up to your potential and opens doors for your future.

To achieve your dream, life after high school might mean going to a four-year college, a community college, or enrolling in a technical college. Whatever your destination, continuing your education after high school puts you on the path to have a successful and fulfilling life.


][

WHY GO TO COLLEGE?Maybe you’re the first in your family to go to college. Maybe you’re worried

about the cost of tuition. Or maybe the thought of more years of schoolwork

is overwhelming. If any of these ring true, you might be wondering,

“IS COLLEGE WORTH IT?”

College can spark your curiosity and ignite a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. In college you will explore subjects in greater depth than you ever did in high school and have the freedom to choose your own classes and class schedule. You will also meet people from diverse backgrounds and cultures who will help you gain a broader understanding of the world.

But college is about much more than class work. A campus is its own world, and getting involved in that world is the best way to get the most out of your college experience. Students can design and publish newspapers, run for student government, play sports, volunteer, teach and help others learn, and more. The list goes on. And you don’t have to live on campus to be involved in campus life and activities.

College helps you develop into a responsible and independent adult. But you’re not entirely on your own: colleges offer many kinds of help to make the transition from high school to college, such as tutoring and academic advising as well as mental health counseling and other support services.

College can inspire you and make you a more well-rounded person.

Consider this: most college graduates earn twice as much in their lifetime as high school graduates. And in general, the more education you get after high school, the more money you earn.

College is the most valuable investment you can make in your future. Remember: an investment in college is an investment in yourself.

Do you already have your future lifestyle planned out? Take the Reality Check Quiz at UtahFutures.org to understand how much you’ll need to earn to support your ideal lifestyle, and figure out what kind of jobs and education and training will get you there.

IN A WORD:

College is an investment.

5 | StepUpUtah.com

To get ready for college—no matter what grade you’re in—it’s important to do your best in school, start exploring what careers you might be interested in, try different extracurricular activities, and understand all the opportunities that await you after high school. Visit StepUpUtah.com to learn more.

You can go to college no matter what classes you take in high school. But, to be best prepared and to avoid taking remedial classes once you get there (which can cost you extra time and money), try taking these classes in grades 9-12. Aim high and challenge yourself!

What classes should you take to be ready for college?

ENGLISH: 4 credits

MATH: 4 creditsMath I, II, III, plus one class beyond Math III

SCIENCE: 3 creditsLab-based, specifically biology, chemistry, and physics

SOCIAL SCIENCE: 3.5 credits

LANGUAGE: 2 credits World or classic language taken in a progressive manner

HOW DO YOU GET READY FOR COLLEGE?


Earning college credit in high school is a great way to get a head start on your college education. It’s best to earn credit that applies to your general education requirements.

General education classes help you be more well-rounded, develop your thinking, writing, and problem-solving skills, and expose you to various subjects. No matter what you study in college, you’ll have to take general education classes in English, math, science, arts, humanities, and social science.

AP classes are challenging high school classes that prepare you for college with more advanced material. AP classes are writing and research intensive and emphasize study and test-taking skills. Based on your score on the AP exam offered at the end of the school year, you could also earn college credit. (AP exams cost around $93 per subject. AP is offered at most Utah public high schools. Ask your counselor about AP options, and check with the college you plan to attend to see if AP credit will count toward your degree.)

IB diploma students take classes in six subjects, perform community service, and write an extended essay. IB classes focus on thinking, speaking, writing and research skills, and emphasize inter-cultural understanding. Earning a passing grade on IB exams or earning an IB diploma can make you eligible for college credit. (IB exams cost around $116 per exam. IB is only offered at some high schools, so check with your high school counselor and with the college you plan to attend to see how they recognize IB credit.)

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)

What are remedial classes?Remedial, or developmental, classes are designed

to get your skills up to speed so you’re prepared for

the classes that come after. Having to take remedial

classes generally means taking additional classes in

college, and that ends up costing you more money.

EARN COLLEGE CREDIT IN HIGH SCHOOL

7 | StepUpUtah.com

Think of Concurrent Enrollment (CE) as an opportunity to explore what it’s like to be a college student:

What CE classes can you take? CE offers many general education classes because they are required for college graduation and easily transfer from one college to another. CE also offers introductory classes in career and technical education (CTE) fields from aviation to business to construction. Meet with your high school counselor to finalize your choices.

CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT

CE classes are college classes. You experience college academics first-hand: read a college textbook, take college exams, write college papers, and learn how much studying is needed to pass a college class. Most CE classes are taught in your high school by college instructors.

You gain “college knowledge.” To take a CE class, you must apply for admission to a college, pay an application fee, meet college deadlines, and use the campus online registration system to enroll. Talk to your high school counselor or college CE advisor about choosing classes, how to pay for college, and exploring majors that meet your interests and career goals.

You save money. Through the CE program, you can take college classes at a deeply discounted cost. Currently, tuition for CE classes is $5 per college credit, $15 per three credit college class. On college campuses, tuition and fees for a three credit class costs between $450 and $1,600. This low-cost opportunity is possible because of funding from state government and support from colleges, school districts, and charter schools. Utah students taking CE classes last year saved $34.9 million in tuition.

You earn both college AND high school credit with each class.


Try taking college math in high school! In college, you must take at least one math class to fulfill your general education requirements. Math tends to be a stumbling block for students once they enter college, especially if a year or more has gone by since they last took math. So why not take college math in high school to complete the college math requirement?

We know taking a fourth year of math can seem overwhelming, but remember that you’re going to have an easier time taking math now while all your math skills are still fresh in your mind. If you wait even just a year, you could forget much of what you learned by the time you take math in college. You may need to take additional remedial classes before you can complete your general education math class. If you earn your college general education math credit in high school, you could be completely done with math classes before you even go to college (depending on your college major)!

What math should you take? It’s a good idea to take math your senior year, and it’s an even better idea to earn college credit and take a CE math class that is appropriate for your future college major. Use the flow chart on the next two pages to find out what math class may be best for you. Make sure to finalize your decision with your high school counselor, and remember that you may need to take a different math class or an additional math class in college, depending on your major.

What is a college major?A college major is a specific subject area that you specialize in. Typically, between one-third and one-half of the classes you’ll take in college will be in your major or related to it. Visit UtahMajors.org to find what majors are offered at Utah’s public colleges. Some careers require a particular major, while others just ask for a college degree.

At some colleges, you can even:Major in two fields.Have a major and a minor (a specialization that requires fewer courses than a major).Create your own major.

9 | StepUpUtah.com

. . . interested in business, finance, economics?

. . . interested in communications, public speaking, marketing?

. . . interested in education, criminal justice, political science, psychology?

YES!

YES!

YES!

NO . . .

NO . . .

NO . . .

You may be an “ORGANIZER” (conventional)

You may be a “PERSUADER” (enterprising)

You may be a “HELPER” (social)

Take CEMath 1050

Take CEMath 1040

Take CEMath 1040

WHICH CE MATH CLASS IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

ARE YOU . . .


. . . interested in visual arts, literature, theater, humanities?

. . . interested in biology, chemistry, computer programming, engineering?

. . . interested in auto mechanics, aviation, construction?

Remember: this chart does not include all of the options for your future. To learn more about your personality, future career possibilities, and how you might fit in these categories, take the Career Interest Profiler quiz at UtahFutures.org.

YES!

YES!

YES!

NO . . .

NO . . .

NO . . .

You may be a “CREATOR” (artistic)

You may be a “THINKER” (investigative)

You may be a“DOER” (realistic)

Take CEMath 1030

Take CEMath 1050

Talk with your school counselor

about the right CE math for you.

11 | StepUpUtah.com

YOU CAN PAY FOR COLLEGE

College can be expensive, and figuring out how you’re going to pay for it can seem like an overwhelming task. Luckily, Utah’s public universities have the fourth lowest tuition in the country, and there are many resources to help you prepare and lots of different ways to get the money you need. With many different funding options available—from scholarships and grants to work-study and student loans—you can go to college.

No matter what grade you’re in, there are things you can do right now to get started.

Saving for collegeThere are so many ways to start saving for college. No matter which options you choose, the important thing is to start saving as much as you can, as early as you can.

The Utah Educational Savings Plan (UESP) allows you to save money now to use for college later. Utah’s official (and only) 529 college savings plan, UESP is a tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan designed to encourage saving for future qualified higher education expenses. Earnings grow Utah state and federal tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified higher educational expenses. Your grandparents and other relatives can even contribute money to your account for birthdays and holidays. Visit uesp.org for more information.

Bank/credit union savings and CD accounts: Research terms and conditions for a savingsaccount that meets your needs. More information at websites such as bankrate.com.

The Utah Individual Development Account Network (UIDAN) is a 3-to-1 savings match andfinancial education program. You must meet income qualifications to participate in this program. Find out more about program eligibility at uidan.org.


Private vs. Institutional

Scholarship search tips: Use the scholarship toolkit at StepUpUtah.com/scholarships. The toolkit will help you start your scholarship resume, which you can continue adding to throughout high school. Check with the financial aid offices at the colleges you plan to attend. Many colleges have scholarships posted on their financial aid and department websites. Beware of scholarship scams! You should never pay money to apply for a scholarship. Sign up for the monthly StepUp e-newsletter at StepUpUtah.com to learn about scholarship opportunities.

Private scholarships are awarded for academic merit, volunteering and community service, leadership, special talents or abilities, family heritage and background, and more. Check places like your church, local businesses, community organizations, parents’ employers, or local banks and credit unions, as these kinds of places often have scholarships available.

Institutional scholarships are awards from specific departments or programs at a college. Institutional scholarships are also often awarded for other campus activities such as involvement in athletics, tutoring, clubs, organizations, and more.

SCHOLARSHIPSScholarships are often awarded for academic merit as well as outstanding service, leadership, talent, financial need, and more. Don’t assume that scholarships are just for students with good grades or an impressive list of accomplishments; there are many other criteria that scholarships are awarded for. So even if you’re not at the top of your class, it’s worth looking at what scholarship opportunities are out there.

SCHOLARSHIPS 101

13 | StepUpUtah.com

12 SCHOLARSHIP TIPS: Study hard and do your best to get good grades and test scores.

Be involved and engaged in your community and with the things you’re passionate about.

Explore options at your high school. Talk with your counselor, scholarship coordinator, and/or college access advisor to find out what’s available.

Search in your community at banks, credit unions, civic groups, parents’ employers, religious organizations, and businesses.

See what scholarships your top colleges offer. There are different scholarships for incoming freshmen, transfer students, nontraditional students, and more.

Create profiles on national scholarship search websites such as:

REGENTS’ SCHOLARSHIPStudents who take the right classes in high school and meet GPA and ACT requirements may qualify for this scholarship from the State of Utah.

You can apply for the Regents’ Scholarship during your senior year of high school, but you need to start planning now to take the right classes during high school in order to qualify.

To learn about the scholarship requirements, visit RegentsScholarship.org.

The Regents’ Scholarship pushes students

like me to take classes that challenge the

intellect. Because of the Regents’ Scholarship

I was able to raise my ACT score and get into

universities that I may not have been able to

without the heavy class load that I took. —HN

14,000+ scholarships awarded from 2008–2016.

provided to Utah students, to date.

$42 million

UtahFutures.org Scholarship Search • chegg.com

bigfuture.collegeboard.com • cappex.com • fastweb.com

Get organized. Make a list of scholarships you might want to apply for and track them. You can easily organize your scholarship search using the toolkit at StepUpUtah.com/scholarships.

Apply. Apply. Apply. Use the scholarship toolkit at StepUpUtah.com to create stellar scholarship applications. Many scholarships can be held until you start college, so it’s never too early to apply.

Be resourceful. Don’t hesitate to repurpose previously used scholarship essays to fit many different scholarships’ requirements and prompts.

Meet deadlines. Submit everything on time. If you submit an application, essay, or other scholarship requirement late, you will not be considered.

Submit the FAFSA—sometimes scholarships require this as part of their application process.

You’ll learn a lot from each application process, and as you practice, you’ll get better. Don’t be discouraged by rejection!

Note: Be sure to read through your scholarship matches carefully to decide which ones you want to apply for. If you’re an undocumented student, you can find additional information on applying for scholarships by visiting: educate-utah.org.

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Apply for financial aidSubmitting your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or FAFSA) at FAFSA.gov is the only way to receive federal financial aid for college. If you don’t submit your FAFSA, you might be missing out on money for college.

Who should submit the FAFSA?

Everyone should submit, regardless of whether or not you think you qualify for financial aid. There’s no income cut-off for federal financial aid.

What does the FAFSA do?

The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal financial aid (grants, work-study, and student loans) as well as aid from your state and college. Calculate how much financial aid you might receive by using the FAFSA4CASTER at fafsa.ed.gov.

When should I submit my FAFSA?

It’s best to submit the FAFSA the same time you apply to college in the fall of your senior year. The FAFSA opens October 1 for the following school year, but you can still submit your FAFSA later than that if needed. We recommend you check the priority deadline at your top college to find out when you should apply. Remember: You will need to resubmit the FAFSA every year you’re attending college.

Where do I go to submit the FAFSA?

Submit the FAFSA at FAFSA.gov. Never use any other website to submit it. If you need help submitting your FAFSA, find a FAFSA Completion Open House at StepUpUtah.com/events.

Why should I submit the FAFSA?

It’s the only way to apply for ALL federal and most state financial aid, including grants, work-study programs, and student loans. If you don’t submit the FAFSA, you may be missing out on free money for college. In Utah at least $45 million is left on the table by students each year in unclaimed aid for college. Even if you have a full-ride scholarship or savings to pay for college, submitting the FAFSA is a good backup plan to cover unexpected expenses. Plus, you aren’t required to accept any of the financial aid that is offered to you.Many scholarships require you to submit the FAFSA as part of the application process.

Need help filling out your FAFSA?

Find a FAFSA Completion Open House near you at

StepUpUtah.com/events

15 | StepUpUtah.com

Work-Study allows eligible students to earn money through a part-time job. Work-study jobs are usually on-campus, have flexible hours, and come with financial aid benefits.

Grants are money for college that you won’t have to pay back, as long as you maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Student Loans are money you borrow for college that have to be paid back—even if you don’t graduate. Explore federal student loans first (through submitting your FAFSA), as they often have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans.

WHAT KINDS OF FINANCIAL AID ARE THERE?

For more information, check with your college’s financial aid office.


Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter. It’s packed full of scholarship opportunities, tips

from experts and current college students on how to pay for college, and much more. Sign up at

StepUpUtah.com/newsletter.

Want to learn more?

A grant is usually provided by the state or federal government. All you need to do to apply for most grants is submit the FAFSA.

Grants don’t have to be repaid.They’re based on financial need (determined by the FAFSA).One of the most common grants is the Federal Pell Grant (2016-17: up to $5,920/year).Ask the financial aid office at your college for more info about available grants.

Work-study allows you to earn money through a part-time job. You may qualify for a work-study job if you submit the FAFSA.

Work-study jobs are usually on campus and offer flexible hours.They come with financial aid benefits.They can give you work experience related to your major in college (such as working in a chemistry lab, tutoring center, or campus business office).

If you’re eligible to receive grants or take part in the work-study program, always use those funds first. Apply for as many scholarships as possible and use college savings before deciding to borrow student loans.

GRANTS AND WORK-STUDY

17 | StepUpUtah.com

A student loan is money you borrow to help pay for college expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and housing. Remember: loans have to be paid back with interest—even if you don’t graduate. Student loans can be borrowed from the federal government (federal student loans) or from banks (private student loans).

Federal loans usually offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment options. You must begin to repay federal student loans once you graduate, leave college, or drop below half-time enrollment. Apply for federal loans by submitting the FAFSA.

Private loans have varying interest rates, may not have as many flexible repayment options, and sometimes require repayment immediately. Always research for the best private loan terms. Apply for a private loan through the financial institution offering a loan (nonprofit, bank, or credit union).

Used wisely and only when needed, student loans can be a great resource to help you finish your education in a timely manner.

**All scholarships, savings, and financial aid such as grants, work-study, and federal student

loans should be used before considering private loans.**

Visit YouTube.com/StepUpUtah for helpful videos about the FAFSA, searching and applying for scholarships, smart student loan borrowing tips, and more.

STUDENT LOANS


Whether you’re considering a four-year college, a community college or a technical college, these grade-by-grade checklists will help you prepare to be successful after high school graduation! More detailed versions of these checklists can be found on StepUpUtah.com.

StepUp Utah Scholars is a college-readiness program designed to motivate you to complete specific tasks in 8th through 12th grade to help prepare you for college. The program will help you know why college is important, what you can do now to prepare for college, how to pay for it and what it takes to succeed in college and in the workforce. By meeting the StepUp Utah Scholars requirements, you will receive the StepUp Utah Scholars certificate and medallion when you graduate high school.

To become a StepUp Utah Scholar, you will need to complete a total of 20 tasks from the grade-by-grade checklists. We recommend spreading these tasks out over your junior high and high school years, but you can complete many of these tasks at any time.

The following grade-by-grade checklists are a condensed version of the tasks you need to complete to become a Step Up Utah Scholar. To see a more detailed list or to sign up to become a StepUp Utah Scholar, visit StepUpUtah.com. You can sign up anytime from 8th through 12th grade.

WHAT IS STEPUP UTAH SCHOLARS?

GRADE-BY-GRADE CHECKLISTS

19 | StepUpUtah.com

Talk to a parent or other adult about what you like to do, what you’re good at, and what you want for your future.

Sign up to be a StepUp Utah Scholar at StepUpUtah.com and learn how the program can help you be ready for college.

Meet with your school counselor to discuss what classes you should take in high school.

Learn about the Regents’ Scholarship requirements and the recommended high school classes at RegentsScholarship.org.

Learn good study habits and test-taking skills. Use the resources found on StepUpUtah.com to help.

Read on StepUpUtah.com about how GPA is calculated and why it matters for college. Look into what GPA is required for college acceptance at some colleges you are considering.

With the help of a parent or other adult, open a college savings account to save for your future college expenses. Learn more at uesp.org.

Take the Career Interest Profiler quiz at UtahFutures.org to learn what subjects suit your personality.

Take the Reality Check at UtahFutures.org or download the American Graduate Reality Check mobile app on your phone.

TH8GRADE

Prepare for high school classes.

To see the complete and detailed grade-by-grade checklists, visit StepUpUtah.com

Start the conversation now.

Learn about yourself.

Make your high school plan.

Start saving for college.


TH9GRADE

Volunteer in your community. Find volunteer opportunities with U Serve Utah (heritage.utah.gov/userveutah) and United Way 2-1-1 (uw.org/211/volunteer).

Sign up for at least one school club or after school program. Talk to your school counselor or a teacher about what opportunities are available.

If you haven’t already, sign up to be a StepUp Utah Scholar.

Meet with your school counselor and develop a four-year high school plan.

Sign up for the monthly StepUp newsletter at StepUpUtah.com/newsletter to get college preparation tips.

Review the Regents’ Scholarship requirements on RegentsScholarship.org.

Read about the various ways to pay for college, including scholarships, grants, work-study, and student loans on StepUpUtah.com.

Make a plan to pay for college with your parents.

Start to build a scholarship and college admissions resume to track your achievements. Use the template found in the scholarship toolkit at StepUpUtah.com to get you started.

With the help of an adult, open a college savings account for you. Learn more at uesp.org. If you already have a saving account, contribute what you can to it.

Read through the Utah College Directory on StepUpUtah.com to discover what colleges in Utah may be right for you.

Talk with your parents, friends and community members about their college experience, and start thinking about what you want out of yours.

Get involved in your school and community.

Explore college options.

Do high school right.

Learn about the different ways to pay for college.


21 | StepUpUtah.com

TH10GRADE

Continue to be involved in school clubs, after school programs, and volunteering. Track your volunteer hours using a spreadsheet.

Sign up for the monthly StepUp newsletter at StepUpUtah.com/newsletter to get college preparation tips and monthly scholarships.

Use the results of your Interest Profiler quiz from UtahFutures.org to see what college majors you might be interested in on UtahMajors.org.

Read about the differences between a certificate, associate, bachelor’s, and other degrees on StepUpUtah.com.

Discover what certificates and degrees Utah colleges offer by exploring UtahMajors.org.

Look through the Access Network Search on StepUpUtah.com to see what support you might be eligible for in your area, like AVID, TRiO, or GearUP programs.

Meet with your school counselor to make sure you’re on track. Complete Math III no later than the end of 11th grade and ask your counselor about Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Concurrent Enrollment (CE) classes.

Stay involved and continue to explore your interests.

Look into support and mentoring programs.

Take the right classes.

Think about what certificate or degree you will need for your future career.



Contact a scholarship representative to make sure you’re on track for the Regents’ Scholarship. Details at RegentsScholarship.org.

Look for scholarships and apply to at least one this year.

Keep your scholarship resume updated.

Get free ACT test prep materials at UtahFutures.org.

Download the free ACT app to get daily ACT test prep questions.

Use the net price calculator on StepUpUtah.com to estimate college costs.

Add funds to your Utah Educational Savings Plan account. If you haven’t opened a UESP college savings account, do so. Learn more at uesp.org.

Research and apply for scholarships (yes, even in 10th grade!).

Learn how much college costs.

Keep saving for college.

Start preparing for the ACT.

23 | StepUpUtah.com

TH11GRADETo see the complete and detailed grade-by-grade checklists, visit StepUpUtah.com

Sign up for classes that stretch your mind and can earn you college credit, such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Concurrent Enrollment (CE). Talk to your school counselor for more information.

Verify with your counselor that you are taking classes that will help you succeed in college.

Take the ACT in the spring. Get free ACT test preparation materials at UtahFutures.org, or download the free ACT App to get daily ACT test prep questions.

Meet with your counselor to make sure you pick the right math class for your future. It’s best to complete your college math requirements through Concurrent Enrollment while still in high school.

Read on page 9-10 of this guide about what CE math class best fits with your future plans.

Make a list of your top college choices and get ready to apply during your senior year. If you’re thinking about going to a school in Utah, check out the Utah College Directory on pages 29-38 of this guide to learn more.

Focus on your classes.

Think about what math class you’ll take your senior year.

Consider your college options.

Take the ACT.

Go on a campus tour. Schedule one by visiting the college’s website or calling.

Attend a summer camp offered by a college near you.

Attend a college fair to explore different colleges and universities. Ask your school counselor for information or search online.

Visit college campuses.


Some colleges (and scholarships) require one or more letters of recommendation. Decide which teachers might be willing to write letters of recommendation next year, and ask them now.

Get a job over the summer to set aside money for college and gain valuable experience you can add to your resume.

Job shadow at a business/organization that interests you. Check to see if you could do an internship, which provides you with great experience.

Talk to professionals in the area of study you’re interested in. Ask your school counselor or parents/guardians to help you find them.

Contact a Regent’s Scholarship representative to make sure you’re on track for the Regents’ Scholarship. If possible, schedule a meeting to go over your classes for the next school year. Details at RegentsScholarship.org.

Look for scholarships and apply to at least three during your junior year. See if your high school has a scholarship coordinator to help you find scholarships to apply for, but don’t forget to also look in your community and search online.

Forecast how much financial aid you could qualify for by using the FAFSA4Caster at fafsa.ed.gov.

Learn about the many ways to pay for college.

Get organized for your final year.

Research possible careers.

Keep applying for scholarships.

25 | StepUpUtah.com

TH12GRADE

Check in with your counselor about applying to colleges and scholarship opportunities.

Ask for letters of recommendation. Connect with teachers and counselors early in the fall of your senior year and let them know you’d like a letter of recommendation.

Be sure to take the right math for your future career. Use the flowchart on page 9–10 of this guide to help you figure out which math class is right for you.

Apply to colleges during the fall of your senior year. Participate in Utah College Application Week in November. Ask your counselors for more information.

If you want to improve your score, retake the ACT the fall of your senior year.

Stay focused.

Apply to college in the fall.

Take math during your senior year.


Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as October at fafsa.gov.

Get help completing your FAFSA by attending a FAFSA Completion Open House during the school year. Visit StepUpUtah.com/events to find dates.

If you are an undocumented student check to see what options might be available for you at educate-utah.org.

Fill out your FAFSA.

** If you’re planning on serving a religious mission or joining the military, you should still complete your college applications and complete your college’s FERPA form so your parents can communicate with the college on your behalf. Once you have been accepted to a college, you can defer your enrollment and most scholarships you have been offered until you return. Find out more information about the deferment process by visiting the admissions page on the college’s website. **


Apply for the Regents’ Scholarship if you’re pursuing it. Check deadlines at RegentsScholarship.org.

Research what scholarships are offered by the colleges you’ve been accepted to.

Look for scholarships and apply to at least three during your senior year.

Visit the websites or call any colleges you’ve been accepted to and ask about First Year Experience Programs and Summer Bridge Programs.

Send in your final high school transcripts to your college once you graduate.

Accept any financial aid you might have received. Talk with your college’s financial aid office to make sure you’re good to go.

Participate in your school’s Decision Day activities to celebrate your accomplishments. Ask your school counselor for more information.

Apply for StepUp Utah Scholars Recognition at StepUpUtah.com/UtahScholars.

Apply for StepUp Utah Scholars recognition.

Continue applying for scholarships.

Narrow it down.

Be proud. Celebrate!

27 | StepUpUtah.com

Need help?

ASK AN EXPERT!

Email [email protected] or message us on Facebook,

Twitter, or Instagram to get all your college questions

answered.


What advice do your family, friends, and community have for you about college?

Ask your family and friends, neighbors, teachers, and school counselors what they liked about college, what they found challenging, and what advice they can give you.

What is your dream job?

Explore career options at UtahFutures.org.

What kind of degree will get you to your dream job: one-year certificate, two-year degree, four-year degree, or more?

If you already know what you want to major in, visit UtahMajors.org to see what colleges offer degrees in that subject.

What type of college campus best suits you?

Do you want to go somewhere close to home or far away? Big city or small town? Small college or large university? Live in the dorms or off campus?

What fun opportunities are you interested in: study abroad, student government, intramural sports, or internships?

Visit a college campus. Contact the admissions office to set up a guided tour.

COLLEGE FIT

What Utah college is right for you?4 questions to ask yourself when you’re thinking

about what colleges to apply to:

29 | StepUpUtah.com

Operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU offers 177 undergraduate degree programs and 94 graduate programs. Our purpose is to develop students of faith, intellect, and character who have the skills and the desire to continue learning and to serve others throughout their lives.

In the heart of scenic St. George, Dixie State is Utah’s most affordable university and offers a personalized active learning experience. DSU’s 175 academic programs, small class sizes, and unbeatable student life prepare students for successful careers and enriched lives.

Take a tour:

Visit: tours.byu.edu

How to apply:

Visit: apply.lds.org

Call: 801-422-4104

See student life at: @brighamyounguniversity

Take a tour:

Visit: explore.dixie.eduPhone: 435-652-7590

How to apply:

Visit: admissions.dixie.edu

Call: 435-652-7777

See student life at: @thedixielife

BYU DSUBrigham Young University Dixie State University

My time at Dixie State has provided me with constant opportunities to learn and grow, both in and out of the classroom, which is important as I work toward a career in a competitive job market.

—Austin

BYU felt like the right choice. I like the quality of education and diversity of experience, especially meeting people from all over the world.

—Madelyne

BYU


LDS Business College provides a distinctive educational experience rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. We work together to cultivate a nurturing environment, teach practical skills, and develop confident and skillful learners.

As Utah’s most diverse institution of higher education, SLCC is an open access, comprehensive community college and one of the top 10 institutions in the country for associate degrees awarded. SLCC specializes in fully transferable general education courses and job training programs.

Take a tour:

Email: [email protected]: 801-521-8159

How to apply:

Visit: apply.lds.org

Call: 801-514-8145

See student life at: facebook.com/ldsbc

Take a tour:

Call: 801-957-3913

How to apply:

Visit: slcc.edu

Call: 801-957-4073

See student life at: facebook.com/SaltLakeCommunityCollege

LDSBC SLCCLDS Business College Salt Lake Community College

In my time with SLCC, I have come to reach new heights that I didn’t know I could reach. I will forever be grateful and look back with a friendly eye on my time with SLCC Culinary Arts.

— Megan

I really enjoy my classes and how we apply what we learn. LDSBC has given me resources to find my own solutions, to ask good questions, and to find good answers.

—Levi

I rea

31 | StepUpUtah.com

Consistently ranked as a top institution, Snow College is for students looking to achieve academic success in a fun residential campus environment at an affordable cost. With campuses located in Ephraim and Richfield, students can complete bachelor and associate degrees and vocational training certificates.

A residential campus of more than 9,000 students, Southern Utah University emphasizes project-based, experiential learning. Close to several national parks, SUU features Division-1 athletics, 140 undergraduate and 19 graduate programs with high acceptance rates to graduate school, and world-class job placement rates.

Take a tour:

Visit: suu.edu/visit

How to apply:

Visit: suu.edu/apply

Call: 435-586-7741

See student life at: @suutbirds

Take a tour:

Visit: snow.edu/visit

How to apply:

Visit: snow.edu/apply

Call: 800-848-3399

See student life at: @snow_college

SNOW SUUSnow College Southern Utah University

Between the hands-on classroom experiences and joining the service club, to playing intramural sports and receiving one-on-one support from my professors, I feel I am getting an affordable and successful, quality education at Snow College.

—Chersty

SUU focuses on experiential learning and getting involved. The hands-on experiences I have had at this University have given me so many new opportunities and jobs.

— Madison


The U of U is a top-100 university in the world and member of the PAC-12. Its more than 100 undergraduate programs prepare students to live and compete in the global workplace.

Take a tour:

Visit: admissions.utah.edu/visitCall: 801-581-8761

How to apply:

Visit: admissions.utah.edu/apply

Call: 801-581-8761

See student life at: facebook.com/universityofutah

UofU UCATUniversity of Utah Utah College of

Applied Technology

The most important thing that makes the University of Utah stand out is how many resources are accessible for the students. There are so many different advocates, programs, and counselors available that are dedicated solely to the students’ success.

—Maddy

The Univ

I am so thankful for the MATC to have given me the opportunity to become a medical assistant and bring my dream of becoming a doctor a reality.

—Brenda

I am

With 8 colleges across the state, the Utah College of Applied Technology welcomes students interested in earning an accredited education that employers are looking for. Since time is money, you can earn your UCAT certicate in just 3 - 18 months.

Bridgerland ATC (Logan/Brigham City)Visit www.batc.edu • Call 435-753-6780

Davis ATC (Kaysville)Visit www.datc.edu • Call 801-593-2500

DIxie ATC (St. George)Visit www.dxatc.edu • Call 435-674-8400

Mountainland ATC (Lehi/Orem/Sp. Fork)Visit www.mlatc.edu • Call 801-753-MATC (6282)

Ogden-Weber ATC (Ogden)Visit www.owatc.edu • Call 801-627-8300

Southwest ATC (Cedar City/Kanab)Visit www.swatc.edu • Call 435-586-2899

Tooele ATC (Tooele)Visit www.tatc.edu • Call 435-248-1800

Uintah Basin ATC (Roosevelt/Vernal)Visit www.ubatc.edu • Call 435-722-6900

UCAT StatewideVisit www.ucat.edu • Call 801-341-6000

See student life at: facebook.com/UCAT.edu

33 | StepUpUtah.com

It’s easy to find your place at USU with residential campuses in Logan and our eastern campuses in Price and Blanding, as well as 30 regional campuses. We are more than just a school. We are Utah’s state university.

UVU provides engaged learning experiences (where students take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to real world situations), along with growing NCAA Division-1 athletics, award-winning arts programs, and an involved student body.

Take a tour:

Visit: usu.edu/campustourCall: 800-488-8108

How to apply:

Visit: applynow.usu.edu

Call: 800-488-8108

See student life at: @usuaggielife @usueastern

Take a tour:

Visit: uvu.edu/futurestudentsCall: 801-863-8811

How to apply:

Visit: apply.uvu.edu

Call: 801-863-8706

Email: [email protected]

See student life at: @uvulife

USU UVUUtah State University Utah Valley University

Undergrad research is a big deal at

USU and a unique advantage you

can’t get anywhere else.

– Laura

Und I heard that UVU was a great school in

terms of engaged learning— just

getting students more involved—and

that matches up with how I learn.

—Katherine

I he


Weber State University offers a variety of two- and four-year degrees—and multiple graduate programs—in a small-class environment. Low tuition, scholarships, and financial aid make WSU one of the nation’s most affordable universities.

Westminster College has been evolving the liberal arts tradition since 1875. Our historic campus is in the heart of Salt Lake City’s vibrant Sugar House neighborhood. At Westminster, self-reliant students from all backgrounds seek lives of consequence and opportunities to explore. Westminster’s devoted faculty foster curiosity and exploration that doesn’t end at graduation. Westminster is a place for expanding your worldview, innovating for the future, and launching a meaningful life.

Take a tour:

Visit: weber.edu/campusvisitCall: 801-626-6050Email: [email protected]

How to apply:

Visit: getintoweber.com

Call: 801-626-6050

Email: [email protected]

See student life at: @weberstate

Take a tour:

Visit: westminstercollege.edu/visit

How to apply:

Visit: westminstercollege.edu/apply

See student life at: @westminsterslc

UVU WSU WESTMINSTERWeber State University

Westminster College

I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the caring that I feel, from Weber State administrators and faculty. It's just amazing. They want to help you.

—Tarl

Everyone at Westminster is here foryou in case you fall, but they won’t hold your hand. So, every failure is yours to learn from, and every accomplishment is yours to carry forward.

—Elaine

35 | StepUpUtah.com

COLLEGES & LOCATIONS


FACTS AT A GLANCE

37 | StepUpUtah.com

Brigham Young Universitybyu.edu801-422-4104

33,363 X X X

Dixie State Universitydixie.edu435-652-7777

8,993 X X X X

LDS Business Collegeldsbc.edu801-524-8145

2,200 X X X

Salt Lake Community Collegeslcc.edu801-957-4111

29,901 X X X

Snow Collegesnow.edu800-848-3399

5,350 X X X X

Southern Utah Universitysuu.edu435-586-7700

9,299 X X X X X

University of Utahutah.edu801-581-7200

31,860 X X X

Utah College of Applied Technologyucat.edu801-341-6000

38,985 X

Utah State Universityusu.edu800-488-8108

28,118 X X X X X X

Utah State University Eastern eastern.usu.edu800-202-8783

2,132 X X X X X X

Utah Valley Universityuvu.edu801-863-4636

34,978 X X X X X

Weber State Universityweber.edu801-626-6050

26,809 X X X X X

Westminster Collegewestminstercollege.edu800-748-4753

2,692 X X X

FALL 2

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February 1$35

February 1$5,460 LDS

$10,920 Non-LDS$3,435 $4,095 May 1

Year-round$35

March 1$5,080 Resident

$14,548 Non-Resident$2,276 $1,424 Year-round

10 days prior to start of semester

$35March 1

$3, 340 LDS$6,680 Non-LDS

N/A N/A8 weeks prior

to start of enrollment

5 days prior to the first day of classes

$40February 1

$3,780.50 Resident$12,019.50 Non-Resident

N/A N/A April 1

Open enrollment$30

March 1 $3,692 $1,850 $1,590 March 1

May 1$50

March 1$5,774 Resident

$19,054 Non-Resident$3,167 $3,900 December 1

Priority: December 1Regular: April 1

$55

Priority: December 1

$8,824 Resident$28,067 Non-Resident

$5,118 $4,479 February 1

Year-round Year-round Varies N/A N/A Year-round

Year-round$50

January 10$7,174 Resident


Year-round$50

June 1$3,749 Resident


August 1$35

First priority: February 1


N/A N/A Year-round

Open enrollment$30

Priority: December 8Transfer students:

March 1


$4,034 $2,629 April 1

Rolling admissions: August 2018

$50 (fee waived with official campus visit)

First year scholarship: Feb.

2nd, 2018$33,040 $5,208 $3,072 March 15

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What you say and do affects your student’s path to college just as much as what they learn in school. Use the resources in this guide and on StepUpUtah.com to start discussions, encourage exploration, and help your student dream big about their future.

Help your student prepare for college.

The college application and financial aid process can be complicated. Get informed by meeting with your student’s school counselor, a college representative, or visiting StepUpUtah.com.

There’s a wide variety of top-notch colleges and universities right here in Utah, and attending college in-state is more affordable than attending out of state. If you’d like to learn more, arrange a campus tour with the Utah colleges your student is interested in.

There are several ways to make college a reality. Save for college using a tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan such as the Utah Educational Savings Plan (learn more at uesp.org). Even $5 per month adds up!

And don’t forget to help your student fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) during their senior year of high school. The FAFSA is the gateway application for many scholarships, grants, and federal student loans. Visit FAFSA.gov to learn about the FAFSA and the types of financial aid your student could receive.

START AT HOME

EDUCATE YOURSELF

LOOK LOCALLY

PREPARE FINANCIALLY

Documents

2017–18 COLLEGE GUIDE - UtahFutures.org · 2017–18 College Guide | 6 Earning college credit in high school is a great way to get a head start on your college education. It’s