College Lingo
What is a Major?
A student’s primary field of study
What is a community college?
A 2-year school offering associate degrees and certificates
What does “FAFSA” stand for?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
What month do you apply to CUNY schools for free?
October
What is a “reach school”?
A college where your stats are below the average admitted student
What is the difference between a college and a university?
A university offers graduate programs; a college may not
What is an HBCU?
Historically Black College or University
What is a scholarship?
Free money for college you don’t have to pay back
What is Early Decision?
A binding application agreement to one college
What is a “match school”?
A college where your stats align with admitted students
What is an opportunity program?
A special admissions and support program designed to help students who are academically underprepared or economically disadvantaged gain access to and succeed in college.
What is a public college?
A college funded by the state government
What is a grant?
Need-based free money for college
What is Early Action?
A non-binding early application option
What is a “safety school”?
A college where your stats are above the average
What is a “liberal arts college”?
A college focused on broad undergraduate education in arts and sciences
What is a private college?
A college funded through tuition, donations, and endowments
What is “work-study”?
A federal program that allows students to earn money through campus jobs
What is the Common App?
A single college application used by many schools
What are 3 things to consider when picking a college?
Size, location, major, cost, culture, etc.
What does “GPA” stand for and what does it measure?
Grade Point Average; measures academic performance
What is a trade/vocational school?
A school that trains students for specific careers
Name a type of financial aid
FAFSA
Dream Act
TAP
Scholarships
Loans
How many letters of recommendation are needed for your CUNY application?
Three - Two Teachers and one counselor
What is “college fit”?
How well a college matches your academic, social, and financial needs