The College Selection and Admissions Process: Unveiling the Mystery

Richard Montgomery High SchoolApril 9, 2008

Rebekah PorterAssistant Director of Admissions

UMBC

When to Begin

As always, the sooner the better, but more specifically:

• Freshman and sophomore years– Enroll in an academically rigorous curriculum– Earn good grades– Take the PSATs

When to Begin

• Junior year– Read mail and materials sent to you by colleges– Begin identify schools interested in visiting– Conduct campus visits– Take the SAT or ACT

• “New” SAT-a word about it

When to Begin

• Senior Year– Visit colleges and take advantage of special

program opportunities– Take the SAT or ACT again– Submit admissions applications in a timely

manner– Explore scholarship opportunities

How to Begin and What are the Options Available?

Goal:To find fit/match between student’s goals, interests, strengths and aspirations, and institutional goals and mission.

• Four Year Colleges and Universities– Public– Private– Research

• Two-Year Schools– Community College– Proprietary

The Application Process and Key Terms

• Early Action

• Early Decision

• Regular Decision/Priority Dates

• Rolling Admissions

• Open Enrollment

Why Are Application Deadlines So Important?

For Institution• Practicality...Thousands of applications

received• Brings order and structure to process• Feel for applicant pool

For Student• Priority consideration• Provides structure to process

Tip #1

Know important dates.

Post them.

Stick to them.

Early decision/Early action…

Know your obligations.

What Documents are Required for the Application Review Process?

• Application

• Transcript

• Essay

• Standardized Test Scores

• Letters of Recommendation

• Others (Interviews, Supporting Documents,

Portfolio, etc.)

Tip #2

• Be clear -

“required” vs. “recommended” • Submit completed application

packet

Who Reviews Applications for Admission?

• Admission Committee

• Admission Counselor

• Faculty Member

• Alumni

• Student

• All of the Above

Tip #3

Know Your Audience

What Factors are Considered in the Application Review Process?

• Academic Performance

• Strength of Curriculum

• Character

• Leadership Experience/Community Involvement

• Interests/Goals/Aspirations

• Standardized Test Scores (SAT or ACT)

Tip #4

The application packet represents you…

• Be creative

• Brag

• Be neat

• Put your best foot forward but most of all…

use spell check!

Re: Academic Performance

• Cumulative Grade Point Average

Weighted or Unweighted?

• Trends

Upwards

Downwards

Inconsistencies

Re: Curriculum

• Challenging curriculum

• College preparatory

• Well rounded curriculum (liberal arts and

sciences)

• Strong senior year curriculum

Re: Character

• Who are you?

• What are your moral strengths?

• What do you bring to a community of learners?

Re: Extracurricular Involvement

• Community Service

• Athletics

• Leadership Experience

• Work

Tip #5

• Share relevant experiences

• Include most recent activities and experiences

• Be descriptive not just listing

• Opportunity to enhance application packet

Re: Interests, Goals and Aspirations

• Essay/Personal Statement

• Interview

• Resumes

• Portfolios

Tip #6

Reflection of you.

Looking for fit…So make a connection.

Have others proof.

Re: Standardized Exams

• Which are required?

• Which are preferred?

• Are scores combined?

• Other exams required Subject Exams, TOEFL, etc.

Tip #7

• Be clear on test requirements.

• Include all scores you want considered.

• List upcoming test dates.

Admissions Decision

• Admit

• Not Admit

• Waitlist

• Request Additional Information

What if I’m Waitlisted?

• Respond to waitlist notice (if required)

• Submit additional (new) information

• Keep options open

What if I’m Not Offered Admission?

• Be honest with yourself

• Keep it in perspective

• Request feedback

• Offer new information

• Explore transfer options

What if I’m Offered Admission?

• Know your rights…May 1 National Decision Date

• Know your obligations…Early decision

• Respond to offer

Other Helpful Tips...

• Note selective majors/programs requiring additional application/documents.

• Document special needs.

• Be organized - calendars, folders, address labels, timelines, checklists.

• Keep copies.

Best Wishes!