College Readiness
For many, college is an investment in the future to creating a brighter pathway of success. It's statistically proven that the higher education level you obtain, the more potential you have for a higher annual income. A college education opens the doors to many different possibilities for your child. We believe that every students' plan is different from one another, therefore we support trade/technical schools, community colleges and universities.
Types of Degrees
Associate Degree - two types of associate majors are offered. (1) Technological and vocational specialties that are generally completed in 2 yr. of college study and are usually sufficient for entrance into an occupational field, and (2) college or university parallel programs that are like the first 2 yr. of a 4yr college curriculum often referred to as a Transfer Degree. Examples - AS Degree in Accounting, AS Degree in Paralegal Studies. (These programs generally require a minimum of 90 credits).
Bachelor's Degree – sometimes called baccalaureate degrees, generally require 4 to 5 yr. of study. The bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS) are the most common baccalaureates, and both include general education
courses, a major and electives.
Doctoral Degree - may be the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.), awarded in many of the humanities, arts, and sciences, or another doctoral degree such as the doctor of education (Ed.D), or doctor of public health(DPH). Doctoral programs usually consist of course work and independent research culminating in a dissertation or other formal presentation of the results of independent study. Student must have already received a baccalaureate degree.
College Testing Requirements
Most four–year universities require students to take a college entrance exam as part of their admissions requirements.
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
- Tests critical reading, writing and math skills
- SAT Subject Tests may also be required by select colleges
ACT (American College Test)
- Tests English, math, reading and science reasoning
- Includes an optional writing section
Admission Requirements
Colleges are looking for well-rounded students that are able to maintain a good academic record while also being actively involved in their school and community.
- Academic Records
- Test Scores
- Letter of Recommendation
- Essay(s)
- Student Activities and Employment
Paying for College
The cost of college depends on what type of institution your child will attend and whether or not it is public or private. College costs usually include tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation and personal expenses. While college costs can be expensive, don’t put your dream of a college education for your child on hold because you think you can’t afford it!Many families pay for college using savings, current earnings and prepaid tuition plans. More than half of all families receive some type of financial aid to pay for college.
Types of Financial Aid:
- Grants – Need-based aid that does have to be paid back.
- Loans – Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest.
- Work-Study – Allows students to work to earn money for educational expenses.
- Scholarships – Usually awarded based on grades, talent or need.
What can you do to prepare your child?
Middle School
- Continue to emphasize good grades and attendance
- Talk about goals and future career plans
- Ask about college prep programs such as AVID, Talent Search or Upward Bound
- Visit a college campus
9th Grade
- Continue to emphasize good grades and attendance
- Encourage your child to take challenging
- Meet with the counselor to discuss college and career plans
- Encourage participation in extracurricular and volunteer activities
- Investigate summer college enrichment programs
10th Grade
- Continue to emphasize good grades and attendance
- Have your child take the PSAT in October
- Develop a list of potential colleges and universities
- Research college admissions requirements
- Attend college fairs and college and financial aid workshops
- Talk to the counselor about enrolling in AP or Dual Credit courses
11th Grade
- Continue to emphasize good grades and attendance
- Meet with the counselor to review transcripts and graduation plans
- Narrow down your list of potential colleges
- Attend college fairs and college and financial aid workshops
- Prepare your child to take the SAT or ACT in the spring.
- Help your child develop a resumé that list activities and accomplishments
- Begin researching scholarship opportunities
12th Grade
- Continue to emphasize good grades and attendance
- Make sure your child is on track to graduate
- Attend college fairs and college and financial aid workshops
- Help your child apply for scholarships
- Narrow college choices down to the top 6 (or more) picks
- Begin the college application process in the fall
- Register your child for the SAT or ACT test
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA)
- Help finalize college plans and financial aid offers
 |
|
Mrs. Chase
Sheldon ISD College
Success Advisor All Grades
|
 |
|
Ms. Fuentes
Sheldon ISD College
Success Advisor All Grades
|