UC & CSUs
Private Schools
Applications & Deadlines
Financial Aid
College Terms & Tips
100

What is the GPA you have to have in order to be UC eligible?

This is the minimum GPA required to apply to a UC as a California resident.

100

What is the Common App?

The common application platform is used by many private colleges.

100

What is November? (Specifically Nov 30)

The month UC and CSU applications are due.

100

What is FAFSA?

This is the form you must complete to qualify for federal and some state financial aid.

100

What is a dorm or residence hall?

This is the place where students live on campus

200

What is the SAT or ACT?

It is a standardized test that is no longer required for UC/CSU admissions.

200

From whom can you receive a letter of recommendation for? Is it required

Teachers, counselors, coaches, mentors: those who can speak well about your academic strength and journey. Yes, it is usually required from Private schools.

200

What are Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)?

The name of the essay section required for UC applications.

200

What is California Dream Act Application (CADAA)?

Students who are undocumented or have DACA status in California should complete this instead of FAFSA.

200

What is an associate degree?

A two-year degree typically offered at community colleges.

300

How many UCs are there in California?

9 (bonus name them all)

300

What are the top 4 majors best known at Stanford University?

Computer Science

English

Engineering

History

300

What is a transcript?

This document shows all the classes and grades you've completed in high school.

300

What is a grant or scholarship?

This type of financial aid does not have to be paid back and can come from schools, states, or private orgs.

300

How many units do you need to have to be considered a full time student?

12 and up

400

What is the UC Application and Cal State Apply?

This is the application portal for both UC and CSU schools.

400

What is institutional or merit aid?

Free additional aid: Private schools can often offer more of this type of aid than public schools.

400

How many weeks in advance should you ask for a letter of recommendation?

4 weeks

400

What is October 1st?

The FAFSA and CADAA usually open on this date each year.

400

What are the schools that Ms. Joselin promoted to you all for the Spring Break College Tour that select Juniors could go to? Name at least 5

SJSU, UC Merced, Claremont, Pitzer, Pomona, Scripps, Harvey Mudd, UC Santa Cruz

500

What college did Alicia, Kevin, Ms. Joselin, and Ms. Herrera attend?

Alicia: UC Merced

Kevin and Joselin: SF State

Ms Herrera: Fresno State

500

What is a liberal arts college?

This is the term for a small, private college that emphasizes a broad education in arts and sciences

500

What is Early Action or Early Decision?

It is an application that allows you to apply to college earlier and sometimes hear back sooner.

500

What is the Cal Grant?

Students with DACA status may be eligible for this state-funded grant if they meet GPA and income requirements.

500

What are a bachelor's of arts and bachelor's of science?

These two types of degrees typically take four years to complete.