NAVIGATING
THE COLLEGE
ADMISSION PROCESS
BELLEFONTAINE HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
BIG PICTURE TIMELINE
Summer before senior year: exploration, prep, visits, early app planning
Fall of senior year: applications, essays, early deadlines
Winter/Spring: regular decisions, FAFSA, scholarships, decisions
Summer is the time to get ahead!
CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLLEGE
FIT AND ALIGNMENT
Look for colleges that align with your academic interests, career goals, and personal values. The right fit will inspire and challenge you to reach your full potential.
CAMPUS CULTURE
Consider the campus environment - the diversity of the student body, extracurricular activities, and overall community vibe. A vibrant, inclusive culture can enhance your growth and learning.
RESOURCES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Explore the academic resources, research facilities, and career services available. These can provide invaluable support and open doors to internships, networking, and future success.
LOCATION AND SETTING
Decide whether you prefer an urban, suburban, or rural campus setting. The location can impact your access to internships, jobs, and cultural experiences.
ACT/SAT
These college entrance exams assess your academic skills and knowledge.
ACT TEST DATES
June 13th
Registration Deadline- May 8th
July 11th
September 19th
October 17th
(should be last planned for date)
PREP AND
TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES
Utilize prep materials and work to learn effective strategies like time management, educated guessing, and stress reduction techniques.
STANDARDIZED TESTS
ACADEMIC RECORD
1
Colleges look at your GPA, course rigor, and academic achievements to assess your readiness for college-level work.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Colleges seek well-rounded students who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and passions outside the classroom.
2
STANDARDIZED TEST SCORES
Many colleges require SAT or ACT scores as part of the admission process to evaluate your academic abilities.
3
4
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Strong letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors can provide valuable insights into your character and potential.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
APPLICATION PROCESS
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
1
Thoroughly research colleges and universities that align with your academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences.
PREPARE APPLICATION
2
Gather all required documents, such as transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation, and ensure they are complete and polished.
SUBMIT ON TIME
3
Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit all materials by the required dates to increase your chances of admission
FOLLOW UP
4
After submitting your application, stay in touch with the admissions office and be responsive to any requests for additional information or interviews.
SHOWCASE YOUR UNIQUE STORY
The personal statement is your chance to stand out from the crowd. Share your passions, experiences, and goals in a compelling narrative that reveals who you are.
HIGHLIGHT MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES
Discuss formative events, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that have shaped your perspective and aspirations. Emphasize how these have prepared you for college.
CONVEY YOUR FIT FOR THE PROGRAM
Explain why you're an excellent match for the specific college or major. Demonstrate how your skills, interests, and future plans align with the institution's offerings.
PERSONAL STATEMENTS
HIGHLIGHT YOUR STRENGTHS
Carefully select recommenders who can speak to your unique talents, skills, and potential for success in college.
PROVIDE GUIDANCE
Give your recommenders a clear understanding of your academic goals and the key traits you want to emphasize.
We will provide a Brag Sheet on SchooLinks.
ESTABLISH RELATIONSHIPS
Develop meaningful connections with teachers, mentors, or supervisors who can provide personalized, insightful recommendations.
FOLLOW UP
Ensure your recommenders submit their letters on time and offer to provide any additional information they may need.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS
SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships are competitive awards that can cover all or part of your college tuition and expenses. Research scholarships based on your academic achievements, talents, activities, and demographics.
We have many local scholarships that will become available in January of your senior year.
GRANTS
Grants are need-based financial aid that you don't have to repay. Fill out the FAFSA to be considered for federal, state, and institutional grants.
STUDENT LOANS
Federal student loans offer fixed interest rates and flexible repayment plans. Private loans have variable rates but may require a co-signer.
WORK-STUDY
The Federal Work-Study program provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to pay for education expenses.
Financial Aid will be discussed in detail at the Logan County Financial Aid Night in the fall.
ACTION PLAN FOR SUMMER
-Finalize your College List
Utilize SchooLinks to research and save options you like.
-Visit campuses (physically or virtually)
-Prep for and plan for ACT (if needed)
-Update or create a resume
Utlize SchooLinks “Profile”
-Begin drafting a personal statment
THANK YOU
BELLEFONTAINE HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
miller.eric@bcs-k12.org
FOR YOUR ATTENTION
orielley@bcs-k12.org
shaw@bcs-k12.org