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Getting Into the School of Your Choice
The Application Process
Once you know what kind of program you want to attend, it’s time to apply for admission. The general admissions process is similar from school to school. It typically includes filling out an application from the school website or office of admissions, and sending it in with any required application fee (usually between $15 and $50) and official high school transcripts which show you have a diploma or equivalent. There may be other steps to admission depending upon the type of school you apply to. Some typical requirements are listed below.
Vocational/Technical and Community College
You may be asked to take a test or show evidence of aptitude in a particular area. For example, if you are interested in computer technology, you may be asked to take a basic math test from the school before you are admitted.
Four-Year College or University
If you are applying as a freshman (not transferring in from a community college), you will probably have to take a standardized test such as the SAT or ACT. These are given yearly at most high schools, but you will need to plan far in advance to take the test and get the scores sent to the schools to which will apply.
Each school will have a minimum GPA requirement and a list of academic coursework that you will have to complete in high school. This information is located in the school catalog under admissions criteria. If your high school GPA and coursework are not up to the school’s standard, you might consider applying to a different university or a community college.
You may have to write a personal statement or essay on a particular topic. It is important that your writing sample be both interesting and polished. Make sure to have a trusted friend, relative, or teacher serve as your editor, even if you are a great writer.
You may have to provide up to three letters of reference, usually from former teachers or employers who are not related to you and can talk about your talents and abilities.
Steps to Take After Being Admitted
Once you have been officially admitted, there are a few things to do that will help you get a smooth start.
If you applied and were admitted to several schools, arrange to tour or spend some time at each campus before deciding which one is best for you. See if you like the campus atmosphere, and if it offers the kinds of social and recreational activities you are interested in along with the degree you will be pursuing. For example, you might want to go to a school that has an extensive student athletic facility, or a school that has an active fraternity and sorority system.
Find out what kind of accommodations and services are available through the department of Disabled Student Services. Does the school have, or can they get the kinds of adaptive equipment you will need? You should also sign up to receive services during the school year at this time. You may have to make an appointment and provide documentation of your disability to do this, so call ahead to ensure that you are prepared.
Find out about placement tests. Many schools will require you to take math and English placement exams before you can sign up for courses. Coordinate your testing with the Disabled Student Services office if necessary.
Find out where the bookstore, office of the registrar, and financial aid offices are located, and discuss the procedures for third-party payment if DSB is paying for your tuition and books. A little hustling before you start school can save you lots of headaches later. Some schools have very streamlined systems, and will give you simple instructions on how to purchase books and pay tuition. Other schools may not be familiar with third-party pay arrangements, and you will have to be persistent to make the process run efficiently.
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