Finding a college that is the right "fit" can be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a student's high school career. Exploring college options takes time, so don't procrastinate until the fall of your senior year to decide where to apply. At UHS we make an internal deadline of October 1st for all seniors to create a set list of schools they are applying to. Prior to that deadline, students should be creating a broad list of 15-20 schools that they can begin researching in depth. This can be done by exploring college websites; attending a college rep visit at UHS; talk to UHS alumni and college alumni; talk to your parents, friends, and family; see your counselor; visit campuses, and utilize online college search resources such as Collegeboard and Naviance Student. At the end of your college research, you should have a list of 8-10 colleges to which you want to apply to. For every "dream" school that is a "reach" for you, be sure to have at least one "safety" or "back-up" school where you know you have a greater chance of being admitted and are willing to attend there.
The key to finding the right college for you is exploring their differences and establishing your own personal priorities of what you want for your college experience. Consider the following factors:
Which of these factors are things you feel you must have to be comfortable at a college? Also, think about what you want to accomplish in college. For example, if you have a major in mind, are the colleges you're considering offering that major and are strong in that area? Keep an open mind. Remember there are many good college matches for every student and that you can be successful at many types of schools.
College Search Resources
Adventures in Education (College planning to financial aid information to carequicklyer guidance)
American Council on Education (College is Possible)
AY Recruiting Solutions (College Enrollment System)
Best Schools (Online Colleges in California: Interviews of the Best Accredited Schools)
Best Schools (Financial Aid Guide for Online Students)
Campus Tours (Virtual Tours)
Careers and Colleges (Information on Colleges, Financial aid, Scholarships, Majors)
College Navigator (National Center for Education Statistics)
CollegeNet (College Search, Application, Scholarships)
College Planner (My Road @ College Board)
College Planning (College planning)
College Prowler (Reviews and analysis on colleges and K-12 schools in the United States)
College Quest (Database of Colleges)
College Search (College Search @ College Board)
College View (College Information)
College Visits (College Tours)
CollegeXpress (Making the college search easier with state-of-the-art search tools)
Edudemic (Affordable Online Colleges in America: Rankings & Report)
Education Unlimited (Academic and Artistic Summer Camps)
Gateway to 21st Century Skills
Kaplan (Achieve educational and career goals)
My College Guide (Planning)
NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling)
National Home Education Research Institute (Research on home education
The College Bound Network (Resource on higher education)
The Princeton Review (Test Prep)
The Simple Dollar (The Best Value Schools and Online Degree Programs)
Unigo (Reviews, videos, and photos created by students)
Where There Be Dragons (Summer Learning)
The CSU grants bachelors and masters degrees that have a practical, career orientation. The assumption is that most CSU graduates will want to enter work based on their bachelor's degree training. There are 23 campuses to choose from.
Visit Cal State Apply for admissions requirements, deadlines, and the application.
Requirements for admission as a freshman are:
Resources
A-G Course Requirements
The UC was established as the focal point for academic and scientific research within the higher education system. In addition to bachelor's and Master's degrees, the UC grants doctorates and professional degrees. The emphasis at the bachelor's level is on theoretical learning. The assumption that most UC graduates will pursue a higher degree before entering their career. There are 10 UC campuses, however, UC San Francisco is a graduate-only institution.
Visit UC Admissions for admissions requirements, deadlines, and the application.
Requirements for admission as a freshman are:
Resources
A-G Course Requirements
These are independent schools that set their own policies and goals, as well as receive private funding. Private universities and colleges are generally smaller than public institutions and create their own admission standards of evaluation when it comes to accepting students. There are over 250 private colleges and universities in California with some specialized in business, performing arts, technology, or medicine (just to name a few), and some are focused on a more Liberal Arts education. Additionally, some private colleges and universities are religious-affiliated. The cost is higher than public colleges and universities. However, these institutions have a variety of financial aid programs that often make the cost comparable to a public institution.
More than 750 colleges use Common App for the application process.
Resources
Independent CA Colleges & UniversitiesThere are 114 Community Colleges in the state of California. Community Colleges offer a variety of opportunities and programs for students such as transferring to a four-year institution after completing two years of general education and pre-major requirements; earning an associates degree in arts and sciences; course remediation and for vocational opportunities, all at an affordable price. There are no admission requirements other than having a high school diploma or be 18 years of age.
For more information on the California Colleges in our local area visit: State Center Community College District or see the college sites below:
Steps to apply:
Financial Aid Process
FASFA
Financial Aid Websites
UHS posts throughout the year all local and national scholarships we receive in our school bulletin. Additionally, there is a scholarship binder located in the counseling waiting area that contains copies of scholarship applications. UHS students should also complete the National Scholarship Search Profile within their Naviance Student account.
Scholarship Information
Ready to start exploring career options but not sure where to start? If you feel "clueless" about what you want to be when you grow up, don't worry! High school and college is a time to explore your career options and interests. Besides, the career landscape is continuously changing and it's more important for you to be open and flexible. In addition to the career exploration you will do with your counselor, the following are some ideas to get you started.
Career Websites