True/False
There are colleges in every state in the U.S.
(True) Every state has at least one college or university as well as a community college.
What is the SAT?
The SAT is the Standardized Admissions Test that some colleges use as part of the admissions criteria.
When can you apply to transfer to a 4-year college?
Anytime
What is the FAFSA?
FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is a form required from all students seeking need-based financial aid. The FAFSA collects family income and other financial information.
What is GPA?
GPA is grade point average that is calculated at the end of each semester. 4.0 is the highest.
You should ask any person for a recommendation letter for your college application.
(False) You should ask a trusted adult who you know well and who knows about your strengths and activities you are involved in.
What are two things to do to strengthen your college application?
1.Do well in school (as a NOVA student, you are guaranteed admission to several colleges as long as you achieve the needed GPA). 2. Participate in extracurricular activities. 3.Talk to an admissions counselor.
DOUBLE JEOPARDY What are scholarships?
Scholarships are money that can be used for college and do not have to be repaid. Scholarships are awarded by various places, including the state and federal governments, public and private organizations, and colleges and universities.
What can you do to deal with test anxiety, stress, etc.?
Loads of things. Self-care is key! Can also use TimelyCare for additional support.
If you graduate college you will on average make more money than just a high school graduate.
(True) Average annual income in 2021: College Education: $52,000 High School Education: $30,000
True or False? The SAT is the only test you can take to apply to college.
(False) You can also choose to take the ACT which is similar to the SAT but also includes science. Many schools don't require any tests for admissions or don't require it for transfer students.
True or False? If I don't have good grades, I can't get any money for college.
(False) There are many scholarships that do not focus on grades. Instead, they reward students for their outstanding characteristics such as leadership and community service.
What options are available at NOVA to help you with your academics?
1. Visit professor's student engagement hours 2. Tutoring Center 3. Tutor.com
DOUBLE JEOPARDY You have to live at the college or university that you attend.
(False) You can often attend college and live at home or in an apartment not on campus.
What is a personal statement?
A personal statement is an essay you write about yourself to help college admissions counselors learn about your goals, your background, and why you want to attend their school.
Name 3 public universities in the state of Virginia (other than NOVA).
1. GMU 2. JMU 3. UVA 4. VT 5. RU 6. CNU 7. LU 8. ODU 9. NSU 10. UMW 11. VCU 12. VMI 13. VSU
What is a student loan?
A student loan is money given to the student to borrow to help them pay for college. Students repay this money once they graduate.
What are 2 strategies for preparing for tests?
1. Attend classes regularly 2. Take good notes 3. Have an organized place for studying 4. Set aside clear times to do academic work 5. Prep over several days and weeks (cramming doesn't work!)
You cannot go to college unless you or your family has a lot of money and can pay for you to attend college.
(False) There is a lot of financial aid available for students, especially for students with lower incomes.
What are two ways to get familiar with a college and the things you need to apply to their school?
1. Call the school 2. Visit the school 3. Attend a college fair 4. Research the school online 5. Talk to someone who goes to or went to the school 6. Talk with an admissions counselor
What can you do after graduating from NOVA?
1. Transfer to a 4-year school 2. Continue in a new program at NOVA (different academic area, certification program, etc.) 3. Get a job 4. Volunteer 5. Loads of other things (travel, raise a family...)
What is the difference between a loan and a grant?
Loans have to be repaid; grants do not.
What are 2 ways to make sure you are on track with your degree?
1. Talk to an academic advisor 2. Run your plan in SIS 3. Follow the recommended course order for your program