Admission Basics
What is the most common application used to apply to multiple colleges at once?
The Common Application (or Common App).
How many years of English do most colleges require in high school?
4 years.
What does FAFSA stand for?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
What is a “major” in college?
A specific subject area that a student specializes in, such as Biology or Engineering.
What are the two major standardized tests required for college admissions?
SAT and ACT.
What is a “personal statement” in a college application?
An essay where students share personal experiences, goals, and why they want to attend a specific college.
True or False: Taking AP or honors classes in high school can help you get into college.
True
True or False: You must pay back grants.
False. Grants do not need to be paid back.
True or False: You have to know your major before you apply to college.
False. Many students apply as "undecided."
True or False: All colleges require either the SAT or ACT for admission.
False. Some colleges are test-optional.
True or False: All colleges require an in-person interview for admission
False
What is the minimum GPA required by most colleges?
2.0 to 3.0, but competitive colleges often require higher.
What is a scholarship?
Money awarded to a student to help pay for college that does not need to be repaid.
What is a “dorm”?
A building where college students live while attending school.
What is a good SAT score to aim for if applying to a competitive college?
1200-1400 or higher, depending on the college.
What is the term for when you apply to college early and get an admissions decision earlier than usual?
Early Decision
How many years of foreign language are typically recommended by most colleges?
At least 2 years.
What is the difference between a loan and a scholarship?
Loans must be repaid with interest, while scholarships do not need to be repaid.
True or False: You can change your major after starting college.
True.
How many sections are in the ACT test?
4 sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science), with an optional writing section.
What is the average number of colleges that students apply to?
Between 5 and 8 colleges.
What is a “transcript”?
A record of a student's academic history, including grades and courses taken in high school.
Name two websites where students can search for scholarships.
What is a “credit hour”?
A unit of measuring educational credit, typically based on the number of hours spent in class per week.
What is “test-optional” when it comes to college admissions?
Test-optional means students do not have to submit SAT or ACT scores, and admissions decisions will not be based on test results.