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To access Naviance go to:
whhs.whschools.org
(parent/student tab)
WHHS College
Board/CEEB School Code:
070910
WEST HAVEN HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR COLLEGE AND PROCEDURAL
HANDBOOK 2016-2017
School Counseling Department
Dr. Rose Paolino,
Department Chair
Leonard Adams, Intern
School Counselors
Dora Barnes
Holly Benedetti
Heather Doraz
Deborah Kachmar
Heather Kannengeiser
Norma Merced
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Dear Senior Students,
Welcome, you are finally here! It is now the time to seriously engage in your postsecondary planning. For some of you, it’s something you may have been dreading. For others, it’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. In either case, approach it with optimism and an open mind. It’s not really about college at all…this process is about YOU! The next few months will be full of interesting (and sometimes frustrating) experiences and events. We encourage you to become as informed as possible about the many options which will become available to you during your junior and senior years and after you graduate. This truly is the best and most exciting time of your life. The West Haven High School College Planning and Procedural Handbook explains, in detail, important information which you must know about if you are planning to attend any post-secondary school. This would include four-year, two-year, vocational, or preparatory schools. ALL juniors and seniors will be required to utilize NAVIANCE and the enclosed forms when applying to postsecondary schools. PLEASE READ THIS HANDBOOK CAREFULLY AND KEEP IT IN A SAFE PLACE! In the most concise manner, it will provide the answers to the majority of your questions. The Handbook suggests a reasonable timeline for you to complete your applications, recommendations, etc. Copies of all forms enclosed in this packet are available on the School Counseling website or on Naviance http://connection.naviance.com/westhaven (under Documents). You may also access Naviance via whhs.whschools.org (parent/student tab). MAKING NAVIANCE’S FAMILY CONNECTION WORK FOR YOU!
We know the college application process can be quite stressful for many reasons. The emotions involved range from anxiety to excitement based on many factors. Utilizing Naviance’s Family Connection, having a solid plan, and developing a strong support system will help you to make the most of your senior year. Your school counselor remains the best source of information regarding the college search process. School Counselors are available to students by appointment and during Office Hours, Monday-Thursdays, from 1:45-2:15 PM. If you would like to see your counselor, please come to the school counseling office and make an appointment. The school counseling secretaries are available from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM for the convenience of students and parents. The phone number to reach the school counseling office is 937-4360 x7147 or x7117.
Best wishes and good luck on this exciting venture,
Sincerely yours,
West Haven High School Counseling Staff
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Table of Contents Page
Welcome Letter ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………2
Senior Year Calendar…………………………………………………………………………………………………..4-6
How Do I Choose a College………………………………………………………………………………………….7
Narrow Your Search…………………………………………………………………………………………………….8
Admissions Criteria………………………………………………………………………………………………………9
Overview of Post Secondary Options………………………………………………………………………10
Planning a College Visit………………………………………………………………………………………………..11
Questions to Ask the Students on Campus……………………………………………………………12
The Interview……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….13
Senior Survival Guide………………………………………………………………………………………………….14
How to Send Your Transcript……………………………………………………………………………………15
The Activities Resume…………………………………………………………........................................16
Your Resume………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….17
Application Deadlines and Notification…………………………………………………………………..18
Financial Aid………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….19
Scholarship Tips and Information……………………………………………………………………………20
Scholarships………………………………………………………………....................................................21
Is Your Student Ready to Play Sports?....................................................................22
Student Athletic To-Do-List……………………………………………………………………………………23
Valuable Websites……………………………………………………………………………………………………….24
Parent Transcript Release…………………………………………………………………………………………25
Scholarship Club Intake Form………………………………………………………………………………….26
Senior Brag Sheet for School Counselor……………………………………………………………….27-28
Parent Brag Sheet for School Counselor……………………………………………………………….29
Senior Brag Sheet for Teachers…………………………………………………………………………….30-31
ROADMAP for WHHS College Planning and Procedural Process……………………..32
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COLLEGE CALENDAR
“Senior” Year September
Register for October SATs and/or ACT.
Remain mindful of deadlines to register for
each test! Please make sure you are having
your test scores sent to colleges directly
from www.collegeboard.org and/or
www.actstudent.org
Attend your Senior Portfolio Session, which
will be scheduled between September-
November.
Request Teacher Recommendations (if you
have not done so already). Complete and
return the “Senior Brag Sheet for Teachers”
to those you are seeking recommendations.
You can find this form in the back of this
packet or on Naviance in the document
library.
Complete the “Senior Brag Sheet for School
Counselor” (if you have not done so already).
This must be done on Naviance located under
the “About Me tab”. Meet with college admissions representatives
in the Career Center. To see a schedule and to
sign up for these visits, go to the “College tab” in Naviance.
College fairs will be held throughout the fall.
Watch for emails via Naviance.
Campus Connection will be held in September
this year, visit the School Counseling Office
for details.
Finalize your “Colleges I am Thinking About”
list in Naviance and begin researching college
application deadlines. Refer to the Application
Deadlines and Notification section in this
booklet for further information.
Research the required application documents
requested for each college you plan on
applying. You can find these requirements by
visiting the college’s website.
Have your Parent Transcript Request Form
signed by your parent/guardian
and return to your school counselor. Refer to
the back of this booklet for the form.
Check which financial aid forms are needed for
each college you are applying. All schools require
the FAFSA. Some schools require the CSS
Profile.
Attend College/Career Fair Night, held on
October 5, 2016, from 6:00 PM-8:30 PM, in
WHHS Gym.
Continue to write college essays/personal
statements. Revise and refine.
Register for November and/or December
SATs/ACTs. Make sure you are having your test
scores sent to colleges directly from
www.collegeboard.org and/or
www.actstudent.org
Prepare a list of 5 to 7 well-chosen colleges and
move colleges from the “Colleges I am Thinking
About” list to the “Colleges I am Applying to”
list.
Request transcripts, to be sent to your colleges
using Naviance, once you have completed the
college application (refer to the “How to Request
and Send your High School Transcript”
section).This is an on-going process but we
recommend that you complete your transcript
requests by Thanksgiving.
Submit the FAFSA (free Application for Federal
Student Aid) directly to Federal Student Aid
Programs as soon after October 1 as possible.
On-line applications can be filed at
www.fafsa.ed.gov
October
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November January
Complete final college visits.
Attend Financial Aid Night: November 2,
2016, 6:30 PM, WHHS Cafeteria
Attend “On-Site College Decision Day” on
November 18, 2016. This is an opportunity for
students interested in applying to a specific
college to meet with an admissions
representative in order to receive an
admissions decision. Students interested in
participating should see their School Counselor
to review the colleges in attendance and their
requirements.
Obtain the “Scoop” on the “Real College
Experience”. All seniors will be invited to
attend Alumni Day, during their English
class, on January 6, 2017.
December February
Register for SAT/ACT/SAT II – make sure to
send updated test scores to all of the colleges
you have applied to through
www.collegeboard.org and/or
www.actstudent.org.
Expect Early Decision and Early Action replies!
Complete those last minute applications!
Continue to research Scholarships
Request mid-year transcripts for colleges as
needed.
Check with your colleges to make sure your
applications are complete. Some colleges have
this information on-line.
March-April
Review your college acceptances and financial
aid awards.
Make a final decision as to which college you
will attend. Send a deposit by the deadline to
the one college you will attend.
Notify the other colleges that you will not be
attending their schools. This will free up a
spot for another student.
Plan for registration, orientation and housing
at the college you choose to attend.
ASVAB: Career Exploration Assessment will
be given at W.H.H.S. on April 20, 2017.
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May May 1st is the National Decision Day
– Students are required to notify
the one college they choose to
attend of their decision by the May
1st deadline.
MAY 1st: Community Service Hours
are due to the School Counseling
Office.
Sign up to participate in
“College/Career Signing Day” at
W.H.H.S., to be held on May 5th.
Take Advanced Placement exams, if
appropriate. Request AP scores to
be sent directly to the college you
will be attending.
Complete the mandatory
Graduation/Senior Awards Survey
on Naviance! This qualifies you for
the possibility of receiving a “Senior
Award” and lets the School
Counseling Department know where
to send your final official
transcript!
June
Send “thank you notes” to everyone
who helped you prepare for college.
Notify the college of any private
scholarships or grants you will be
receiving.
Know when the payment for tuition,
room and board, meal plans, etc. is
due. If necessary, ask the financial
aid office about a possible payment
plan that will allow for you to pay in
installments.
Congratulations! It is time to get
ready to start college!
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How Do I Choose a College?
Step One: Spend time in the School Counseling Office and Career Center. Visit NAVIANCE!
Choosing a college may seem like the most important decision you will ever make. It can be scary
because it probably is the first major life choice you have ever made. RELAX!!!!!! There is not one
“magic” school that will make you happy. In fact, there are many institutions that could be right for
you. It is your job to make sure that you have enough information to make an educated choice. Your
parents, siblings, friends, teachers, and counselor will have ideas and sources of information for you
to access. One excellent resource is the West Haven High School Counseling Office and Career Center.
Your counselor can show you where to find college course catalogs, college view books, college
applications, college videos, reference material, and computer programs that you can use in your college
research. If you are not sure about where to go or what to major in, your counselor can help you figure
this out and show you how to explore career options. Time spent researching should be your first step
in choosing a college.
Step Two: Evaluate your priorities
Ask yourself the following questions and decide which of your preferences are mandatory and which
are negotiable. Parents and school counselors make good resources as you evaluate your priorities.
Consider these factors when deciding what you want from your college experience.
What special programs or services do I want? Access NAVIANCE…it is your number one resource. Go to the College tab for all your college
needs (https://connection.naviance.com/westhaven, or whhs.schools.org;Parent/Student
tab). Complete the College Search to aid in creating your college list and discover services
available at the college. These services range from location, athletics, size, and life style
cooperative work experience, choices of major and other important categories you may not
have thought about. NAVIANCE: colleges
Here are all the tools for getting into cool schools
SuperMatch™ college search college match colleges: Go
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Narrow Your Search
Step Three: Narrow your Search
After determining which characteristics of a college your must have and which characteristics are negotiable, start to narrow your list of colleges by focusing your research in the following four areas:
Strength of the Academic Program
More than anything else, you go to college to get a solid education. If you are a very good student,
look for a college that will provide you with a challenge. If you are a weaker student, look for a college
that will offer the support you need. Make sure all of your college choices have high quality academic
programs by finding the answers to these important questions.
1. What are the graduation requirements?
2. How many courses in my major are offered?
3. What degree of education do the professors have?
4. Who teaches undergraduate courses?
5. What is the student to teacher ratio in your program?
6. What opportunities for research are available?
7. When will I have an internship experience?
8. What type of internships are available?
9. What type of academic advising is available?
10. What is your career placement/ graduate school enrollment history?
Selectivity of Admission
Being accepted to college is a competitive process and it is important to select your colleges wisely so you have
definite options. It is important to plan for many acceptances so you have choice over where you go. As a
general rule, we advise students to apply to 4-6 schools which vary in degrees of selectivity.
Reach – A college whose profile indicates that the majority of previously admitted freshmen had scores,
grades, and other activities significantly better than your own. To be admitted at this school may be possible
but it is not a definite occurrence. Highly competitive schools fall into these category due to the extreme
competition for a place in the freshmen class.
Realistic – A college whose profile indicates that the majority of previously admitted freshmen had scores,
grades, and other activities slightly better or equal to your own. Admission at this college is likely due to the
strength of your application and the average demand for a place in the freshmen class.
Safety – A college whose profile indicates that the majority of previously admitted freshmen had scores,
grades, and other activities that were equal to or less impressive than your own. Admission at this college is
highly likely and probable due to the strength of your application.
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Admission Criteria
Both subjective and objective processes take place as an application is reviewed for admission. The
subjective process deals with opinions made by the admission counselor based on the applicant’s
personal qualities, essay, activities, interview, and recommendations. Some colleges, particularly
selective private ones, rely heavily on this process as a tool to build their freshman class. It is a
careful, detailed, and time consuming process. The objective process deals with an applicant’s
academic history, transcript, and SAT score. Less interpretation is required making it a less time
intensive process. The differences in processes explain why an applicant might be rejected at a
large university and be selected to a smaller more selective college.
Generally, an admission counselor is looking for the following:
Academic Achievement (This is the single most important factor!!!)
Rank in Class
Standardized Test Results
Recommendations, Essay
Activities, Honors, Recognition
Interview
The College Board designates 12 possible admission criteria. They are:
1. Rigor of Course Load
and Grades Achieved
5. Application Question
and essay responses
9. Alumni Relationship
2. Grade Point Average
6. Ethnicity 10. Special Talents, Skills
3.Standardized Testing 7. Personal Interview 11.Extra curricular Activities
4. Recommendations 8. Geographic Location 12. Interests, Hobbies
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Overview of Post-Secondary Options
Two Types of Educational Institutions
University College
-Contains several school/colleges -offers fewer programs of study
-Offers many majors -focus is undergraduates
-Offers undergraduates and graduates degrees -faculty not required to research
-Faculty research required
-Facilities (libraries, labs) may be later
Types of Colleges and Universities
*National -Draw students all over the world
-Offer cultural diversity
-Examples: Boston University, Yale University, Connecticut College
*Regional
-Draw students in state and in nearby states
-Examples: Quinnipiac University, Springfield College, Sacred Heart University
Specialized Colleges
-Colleges that concentrate offering in one or two areas
-Students have a specific idea of what they want to study (for example: Business, Art, Music etc. Colleges)
Community Colleges
-Provide all citizens with the opportunity for higher education
-Open door admission policy
-Low cost and have partnerships with four-year state colleges/universities
-Examples: Gateway & Middlesex Community Colleges
Technical Schools
-Train technicians for a trade (electrical, HVAC, nursing aide) -Private and public options
-Examples: New England Technical Institute, Eli Whitney Technical School
Junior Colleges
-prepare students for an associate’s degree or to transfer to a four year college -private, with a small student population -on campus housing available Examples: Mitchell College, Dean Junior College
Two year Branches of Four Year Schools-Prepares students who may not be financially, emotionally, and/or academically ready to attend the four year college. Examples: UCONN; Waterbury campus
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Planning a College Visit
Now you have your “Colleges I’m Thinking About” list in Naviance…………next, plan to visit your listed schools
and any other schools you are able to visit!! Here are some suggestions to help you maximize your college
visit:
Plan the visit in advance and dress professionally
Bring an unofficial copy of your transcript which can be obtained in the School Counseling Office
Plan to visit while school is in session- it is best to see the school in action with students on campus/stay
overnight in a residence hall if possible
Include your parent/guardian on college visits but not on interviews
Get organized- develop a list to chart the information about each college
While on campus, if possible visit/observe:
Surroundings/atmosphere- Does the campus seem peaceful? Is it overly populated? Is it active enough or too
busy? Does it appear safe?
The libraries/other research facilities- Are they well stocked? Is the staff helpful?
Departments of interest- What opportunities exist in your intended field of study? What are the requirements for a
degree? Meet with members of the faculty or coaching staff?
A class- sit in on a class and observe the instructor’s approach/students’ response
Extra-curricular activities of interest- check out fraternities/sororities (Greek Life), service clubs, sports,
newspapers, social events, academic supports, etc.
Dining Halls/Cafes- eat where/what students eat
Questions to ask the students on Campus:
How many hours a week do you study? Is that
typical of students here?
Are campus jobs readily available?
Is faculty interested in students? Accessible outside
of class? How are advisors assigned?
Do many students go home on the weekends?
Are the computers accessible? Are there enough of
them?
Where do you study? Is it possible to study in your
dorm room?
What is the library like as a place to study? To do
research?
What do you like most about this college? Least?
How easy is it to get the classes you want at
registration?
How is the food? How late can you get food?
Do you feel safe on campus?
What do students do for fun on campus?
How available are academic supports during the
semester/year?
Do students ask for academic support or is it
automatically provided?
If you had to do it again, would you still choose this
college?
After the visit: 1 Write down your impressions- if possible write them down while they are still fresh in your mind, keeping track 2
of your likes/dislike. 3 Send a Thank You card/email to the Admissions Department 4
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QUESTIONS TO ASK THE STUDENTS ON CAMPUS……
*Remember people’s views about a college can vary widely
so try to talk with as many students as possible.
How many hours a week do you study? Is that typical of students here?
Are campus jobs readily available?
Are faculty interested in students and accessible outside of class? How are advisors assigned?
Do many students go home on weekends?
Are the computer terminals accessible? Are there enough of them?
Is it possible to study in your dorm room?
What's the library like as a place to study? To do research?
What do you like most about this college? Least? Is the food good?
How easy is it to get the classes you want at registration?
If you had it to do again, would you still choose this college?
AFTER THE VISIT……
Write down your impressions. Use the enclosed “College Visit Checklist” to keep track of
your likes and dislikes of each college. If possible, write down your impressions of the college
while they are still fresh in your mind.
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THE INTERVIEW
Call the Office of Admission to schedule an appointment. Remember to BE PREPARED! Not only
should you know as much as possible about the school, you should also bring along a list of
questions, so you are sure to cover everything you want to find out!
Take an unofficial transcript with you.
Your interviewer may ask you about...grades...class standing...test scores...course work ...why
you took a particular subject...what was covered in it...how you're doing at present...why you're
interested in this particular school...
Formulate some questions of your own about the school as well as specific questions about the
field of study you are interested in.
Discuss and ask about extracurricular activities, special interests, sports and non-academics.
You might even want to bring a copy of your activities resume to share with the interviewer!
Expect questions about the personal you. . . do not let these questions surprise you. The
interviewer is trying to find out as much as he can about you. Be frank about your weak points
as well as your strong ones. Answer questions completely and honestly.
Talk about your plans and objectives... what do you want from a college education? What would
you like to be doing twenty years from now? Is graduate school part of your plans? Let your
interviewer know you are applying for specific reasons. Know what the school has to offer and
tell them what you can offer them!
When the interview and visit are over, try to write down your first impressions and assess your
visit while it is still fresh in your mind.
Always follow up with a thank you note to the interviewer!
Remember that this interview works two ways– it is a chance for you to impress them and
it is a chance for you to find out if this is the right school for you!
Visit the West Haven High School website in order to find a College Practice Interview
Sheet – a listing from admission counselors of real questions asked in interviews!
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Senior Survival Guide
The College Application Process Made Easy 1. Requesting Letters of Recommendation:
Ask teachers (2 Academic Teachers) for letters of recommendation on Naviance (see directions below): the student is responsible for contacting the teacher and MUST
provide teachers with the teacher brag sheet
o Click on Colleges
o Colleges I’m applying to
o Scroll down to Teacher Recommendations
o Click Add Requests
o Select 2 Teachers and add any specific comments necessary (ie. the colleges you
are applying to)
o Update Requests
Ask school counselor for letter of recommendation: student is responsible for filling out
counselor brag sheet on Naviance (see directions below), completing resume, and bringing
counselor parent brag sheet. This process must be completed in order to return your Parent Transcript Release Form and request transcripts on Naviance.
o About Me
o Left hand side under surveys to take
o Resume
2. Parent Transcript Release Form: this form must be signed by a parent and brought to your
school counselor, giving us permission to release your records. If a student is 18, he/she may sign
the form. In order to submit this form, you must complete brag sheets and resume.
3. Complete FERPA Waiver: (Blue Box) on Naviance under “Colleges I am Applying to”
4. Complete your College Applications/College Essays: Students are responsible for mailing their
applications (which will include your essay) or submitting their application electronically online.
You will receive support writing your college essays in English class
Lastly, make sure you observe application deadline dates!
5. Request Transcripts: through Naviance at least 2 weeks before application is due
Click on Colleges
Click on Transcripts
Request Transcripts For my college applications
Fill out Type, College
Request Transcript
6. Request Test Scores: SAT & ACT Scores must be requested to be sent to colleges through
www.collegeboard.org and/or the ACT website www.actstudent.org (see if colleges are test
optional on fairtest.org or on the school’s website)
WHHS DOES NOT SEND YOUR SAT/ACT SCORES TO YOUR COLLEGES
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How to “Send” Your High School Transcript for College and Scholarships
For College:
Step 1: Be sure you and your parent/guardian have completed the blue “Parent Transcript
Release Form,” then returned it to the Counseling Office. Without this signed form on
file, you will not be able to follow the instructions below to send any transcript!
Step 2: Sending your transcript to a college: (Important: Requests for transcripts are only to
be made when you have completed an application for a particular
college)
Log onto Naviance: connection.naviance.com/westhaven
select “colleges” tab at the top
in the left margin, select “transcripts”
top selection is “request transcripts for my
college applications”
click the box to the left of your college to select it
o if it is not shown, scroll down and select “lookup” which opens a window to search
the college; it will then close and the college will show in the white box
scroll to the bottom to select “request transcript”
For Scholarships the process is similar; once you are logged into Naviance:
select “colleges” tab at the top
in left margin, select “transcripts”
choose “send transcript for scholarship”
key in the full mailing address listed on the scholarship application (and doublecheck for
errors)
key in the deadline date
in “other notes,” enter any special instructions for your counselor to follow, like “send
SAT scores,” “send teacher letter,” “do not mail until I see you,” anything it specifies in
the instructions
scroll to the bottom and select “add transcript request”
At any time to see the status of your transcript requests, log into Naviance:
select “colleges” tab at the top
in left margin, select “transcripts”
choose last selection, “view status of my transcript requests” to list all transcripts
you requested and dates they were sent
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THE ACTIVITIES RESUME (Utilize NAVIANCE: Go to the “About Me” tab)
Don't Sell Yourself Short:
6 Tips for Presenting your Activities Resume Eli Clarke, Associate Director of counseling, private high school, Washington DC
The activities resume is a great opportunity for you to explain important activities and accomplishments to
admissions committees. By offering concrete information about yourself in a concise form, you seem more
real and interesting to the committees.
Please note: Your resume MUST be completed in Naviance prior to requesting a letter of recommendation.
Write only about high school accomplishments. Some people get tempted to include winning the
spelling bee in junior high school. As with your grades, colleges and universities are only interested
in what you have been doing within the last three to four years.
Organize your thoughts and follow the pattern of the resume. You don’t want your readers to get
lost in the resume.
Use clear terminology that your audience will understand. Admissions committees may not
automatically understand abbreviations or special terminology that your schools (or even yourself)
use in everyday vocabulary. Spell out abbreviations and describe activities so that anyone can
understand at first glance.
Be clear and concise. Beware: you can overdo your resume. In some cases, people tend to ramble on
about every activity or put in every accomplishment. Try to adhere to this rule of thumb when
describing your activities:
Describe the activity (in one sentence)
Describe your personal involvement (in one sentence)
Describe any awards or honors associated (in one sentence)
Remember that resumes do not replace activity sections on applications. Some applicants think
that because they completed a resume, they do not need to fill out the activity or employment
sections on the applications. That is not true. Unless the application says that you can attach a
resume in place of filling out the section, then you must do both. If you do both, make a note on
the bottom of the activity section and state “please see attached resume.”
Don’t repeat your essay. Both your resume and your essay give you a chance to highlight your
accomplishments. Try not to repeat information. If you spend a lot of time talking about one of
your activities in your essay, there is no need to go into great detail about it in your resume, and
vice versa. It’s ok to mention something in both places, but there is not need to go into great detail
more than once.
REFER TO SAMPLE ACTIVITIES RESUME ON THE NEXT PAGE
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YOUR RESUME
Write about your accomplishments. This is the time to brag about all the activities you have been
involved in. Do not use abbreviations that college admissions might not understand. Below is an example
of a resume. You can certainly be creative with your format. Each resume will be different, so don’t
be shy about adding examples of your achievements! GO to the About Me tab on Naviance and click on
Resume to get started.
SAMPLE RESUME
JOHN SMITH
West Haven High School
Objective: Pursue a major in Biological Science Education West Haven High School- Class of 2016 GPA: 3.762
Awards/Certificates Honor Roll Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 National Honor Society Grade 11, 12 Leadership Peer Tutor Grade 11, 12 Assisted students with their classwork questions Student Government Vice President Grade 12 Extracurricular Activities Biology Club Grade 10, 11, 12 West Haven Pride Committee Grade 11, 12 Assisted in cleaning up campus Volunteer Service West Haven Animal Shelter Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Fed animals, cleaned cages, organized food shelves Athletic Achievement Varsity Soccer Grade 11, 12 Work Experience Texas Roadhouse Restaurant Grade 11 Busboy Stop & Shop Grade 12 Cashier
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APPLICATION DEADLINES AND NOTIFICATION *Adapted from collegeboard.com*
Early Decision - BINDING*– When the school is the first choice. The applicant commits to
attending the school if admitted; in return, the school renders an early decision, usually in
December or January. Students may apply Early Decision to only one school. If accepted under
ED Binding you must withdraw all other applications.
*Occasionally, the term Early Decision is used but it is not binding; check with the individual school
to be sure.
Early Action - NON–BINDING– Similar to Early Decision, but not binding; applicants need not
commit to attending the school and in some cases may apply Early Action to more than one
school. The school, in turn, may not render a decision, choosing to defer the applicant to the
regular admissions pool. Single-Choice Early Action – This is a new option offered by a few colleges. This plan works the
same way as the other early action plans listed above, but applicants may not apply early (either
early action or early decision) to any other school. Applicants can still apply to other schools and
are not required to give a final answer of acceptance until May 1st.
Rolling Admissions - Many schools operate on this policy. That is, they notify you within 4 to 6
weeks after receiving all required materials. A student is not required to respond to an offer
of admission until hearing from all schools where he/she has applied or by May 1st, whichever
comes first.
Posted Deadline - Many schools have a posted deadline and will notify you in the early spring –
between March 20th and April 15th. You are not required to reply to a school before May 1st.
ONCE YOU HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED (Congratulations by the way!):
Review all information carefully and weigh your options. Once you have made your decision.....
Notify the top choice of your decision to attend.
Make the required deposits.
Notify other institutions to which you were admitted that you are NOT attending.
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FINANCIAL AID
Determining who will receive aid is not simple. Family income alone will not predict your eligibility. There are a
number of other factors that are considered such as: family size, indebtedness or educational expenses for
other family members. For this reason, don't rule out any college on the basis of cost alone. The only way to
know for sure if you're eligible for financial aid is to actually apply.
"Need" is the difference between what it costs to attend a particular college and what you and your family can
afford to pay. Since college costs differ, you will be eligible for different amounts of aid from different
colleges. If you receive enough financial aid, you might end up paying the same to attend a higher cost
college as you would to attend a lower cost one. What changes as costs go up is your "need", not what you
can pay.
Applying for Financial Aid An important factor to know regarding financial aid is that the guidelines change nearly every year. Be sure you
receive updated information from the particular college regarding their necessary forms and deadlines.
You are required to file the FREE Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) found online at
www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Some colleges also require additional forms to be submitted, such as the CSS Financial Aid PROFILE
found online at http://student.collegeboard.org/css-financial-aid-profile. These forms may include
fees.
*FAFSA forms may not be submitted until after October 1st, the year prior to the student attending.
The following are the RECORDS NEEDED to process your financial aid:
U.S. income tax return (IRS Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ)
W–2 forms and other records of money earned in 2006
Records of untaxed income
Social Security card and number
Current bank statements
Current mortgage information
Records of stocks, bonds and other investments
**You can find EFC (Expected Family Income) Calculators online, where you can receive a realistic estimate of
what the cost of college will be for your family for each college that your student is applying to**
Types and Sources of Aid
There are 3 basic types of financial aid:
1. Grants and Scholarships –Do not have to be repaid. Grants are usually awarded on the basis of need.
Scholarships may be need based or based on other criteria such as academic achievement.
2. Loans – Must be repaid; sometimes after graduation or leaving school. Government loans normally have a lower
interest rate than a regular bank loan.
3. Federal Work-Study Programs –Involve jobs arranged by the college, where students earn financial funding
through a part-time work program at their college or university.
~If you qualify for aid, you will receive a financial aid "package", which combines two or three types of aid from various sources. The financial aid administrator at the college will put your package together~
20
SCHOLARSHIP TIPS and INFORMATION 1. Start Early. It’s never too early to start thinking about scholarship opportunities. Early in high
school is also a great time to start thinking about extracurricular activities that will make you
attractive for scholarships. Joining a club, getting involved in a sport, or demonstrating Church and
community involvement are all important to colleges. Leadership, writing and public speaking skills
can be gained from group involvement.
2. Search for scholarships. Think of it as your part-time job in your junior and senior years of high
school. Spend a couple of hours a week at home or at the library researching scholarships; some
are well publicized, some are not.
Check NAVIANCE frequently during your senior year for updated scholarship opportunities.
In addition, create a profile to search for national scholarships at www.finaid.org and
www.fastweb.com.
3. Apply, Apply, Apply. You can't win if you don't play. Apply for every scholarship that meets your
needs. Keep looking because new scholarships are created frequently. Also, check with the financial
aid office of the college you wish to attend. They have information on scholarships from that school.
4. Plan Ahead. Allow adequate time to obtain letters of recommendation. Obtain transcript information
early and pay close attention to deadlines. Always make sure that your applications are current.
5. Be Organized. Keep all of your scholarship information in a file box. Make photocopies of all of your
applications and keep contact names handy so that you can follow-up. If you have a computer, make
sure that you save and back-up all of your information.
6. Follow Directions. Make sure that you follow all directions pertaining to the scholarship application
and that your information is organized. Don't provide six letters of recommendation if the
application only asks for two. Type your application if possible. Neatness counts! Remember, these
people have never met you; this is all they have to go by to gain a sense of who you are. **Remember
to ALWAYS have someone proofread your application**
1. The College/Career Center has information regarding current scholarship offerings. Scholarships
are also posted on Naviance.
**Watch for local scholarship offerings during your senior year and check your
Naviance email for updates**
21
Scholarships
How to use Naviance to search/apply for scholarships
Log onto Naviance, connection.naviance.com/westhaven
remember: your I.D. is your email;
your username is your student ID number
Click on “College” tab, then scroll down on page to “Scholarship List”
Search scholarship list to find the name of the scholarship you are
looking for; to sort the list in order by deadline, simply click the
heading of the “Deadline” column twice
Click on the link, and carefully follow their instructions to apply!
don’t forget to add each to your “scholarship applications” for tracking
Things I may need to apply for scholarships:
current transcript, unofficial and sometimes official; ask
us how to request an official copy or an electronic copy
teacher letter of recommendation(s), must be official so
never handed to student
resume
your college essay, a personal statement, or an essay specified
on rare occasions, sections of your FAFSA submission
Register with www.fastweb.com and start receiving email notifications of scholarships
for which you qualify
FastWeb is a scholarship matching service – from a database of 1.5 million scholarships
Alerts straight to your email box –keeping you informed of every scholarship match
Join Scholarship Club for help completing scholarship applications!
Check your email for notifications of weekly meetings with Scholarship Club
Signing up in Naviance is required for each session
(Click on the Colleges tab and sign up for each meeting under College Visits)
Track your scholarship applications in Naviance (Under the Colleges tab click on
Scholarship Applications, then select the scholarship name, and later the amount if you
are selected)
22
IS YOUR STUDENT READY TO
PLAY COLLEGE SPORTS?
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Division I Initial-Eligibility Requirement
Sixteen (16) core courses are required
Students must present corresponding SAT/ACT test score
Core course GPA (minimum 2.000) before August 1, 2016/Core course GPA (minimum 2.300) on or after
August 1, 2016
Division II Initial-Eligibility Requirements
Requires 16 core courses Requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68
Current Core GPA requirement is a minimum of 2.000/Core GPA required to be eligible for competition on
or after August 1, 2018 is 2.200
Division III Initial- Eligibility Requirements
There is no uniform set of eligibility requirements for Division III schools.
Eligibility for admission, financial aid, practice and competition is determined by the college or university.
The NCAA Eligibility Center does not perform certifications for Division III college-bound student-
athletes
National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA)
525 Member Institutions (Colleges/Universities)
Student must be a high school graduate
Athletic Scholarships available for Divisional Play
Division I- a maximum of tuition and fees, room and board, course related books, up to $250 in course
related supplies per academic year, and transportation costs one time per academic year to and from
college by direct route
Division II- a maximum of tuition, fees, course related books and up to $250 in course required supplies
per academic year
Division III- no athletic scholarship aid of any kind
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)
Nearly 300 Member Colleges and Universities
Financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans are determined by each individual member
college/university
Student must be a high school graduate
Must meet two of the following requirements:
Test score requirement- achieve a minimum of 860 on the SAT or 18 on the ACT
High school GPA requirement- achieve a minimum overall high school GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Class rank requirement- graduate in the top half of student’s high school class
For additional information please see Ms. Barnes, School Counselor or Mr. Capone, Athletic Director
23
Student Athlete’s To-Do List
1. Compare the pros/cons of the different athletic associations (NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA) in terms of
scholarships, divisional play, and eligibility requirements.
2. Make sure you will complete all graduation requirements and NCAA core courses.
3. Make sure you have registered with the NCAA Clearinghouse.
4. Read the NCAA Guide for the College-Bound Student- Athlete available at www.ncaa.org.
5. Retake college admissions tests (SAT/ACT) in the fall, if necessary, either to satisfy NCAA eligibility
or to improve your chances of receiving an academic scholarship.
6. Attend College/Career Center nights (WHHS College Fair) and Financial Aid Workshops.
7. Narrow your “Colleges I’m Thinking About” list in Naviance to a manageable and realistic “Colleges
I’m Applying To” list- be sure to include schools that will meet your needs if you do not participate in
athletics.
8. Make sure your college applications for admission are sent prior to your college application deadlines
indicated in the “Colleges I’m Thinking About” list or on the school’s website.
9. Make sure you request transcripts to be sent in Naviance by your School Counselor prior to your college
application deadlines under the “Colleges I’m Applying To” screen.
10. Follow recruiting rules regarding campus visits.
11. Send in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form for analysis.
12. Make copies of all forms.
13. Sit down with your parents/guardian, coach, and School Counselor to discuss your list of pros/cons for
each of the schools listed in your “Colleges I’m Applying To” list in Naviance.
14. Send an updated letter of interest (with your athletic resume, the season schedule, and game/practice
footage video) to coaches of the schools listed in your “Colleges I’m Applying To” list in Naviance.
15. Be sure of your final choice before signing any papers/committing to any school.
16. Let coaches know when their school is no longer in the running- thank for them for their help.
24
WEBSITES TO UTILIZE IN THE POST-SECONDARY PLANNING PROCESS
College Admission/Information Websites
Naviance
(Student has already received a personal password)
www.whschools.org/page.cfm?p=1222
(Direct link to Naviance is in the left column)
Alphabetical list of all Universities throughout the United
States
www.utexas.edu/world/univ/state
U.S. Dept. of Education
(Information for Parents and Families)
www.ed.gov/index.jsp
Peterson’s Online www.petersons.com
College Express www.collegexpress.com
New England Regional Student Program www.nebhe.org
College Profiles www.collegeprofiles.com
NCAA www.ncaa.org
Test Optional Schools www.fairtest.org
Common Application www.commonapp.org
SAT www.collegeboard.org
ACT www.actstudent.org
TOEFL
WHHS School Counseling Department
www.ets.org/toefl
whhs.whschools.org
Financial Aid & Scholarship Websites
Financial Aid Information Page www.finaid.com
Fast Web www.fastweb.com
U.S. Dept. of Education http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/cool
FAFSA www.fafsa.ed.gov
CSS Profile www.collegeboard.com
CT Dept. of Higher Education www.ctdhe.org
CT Mentor www.ctmentor.org
Naviance www.connection.naviance.com/westhaven Scholly: Download the Scholly App to your Smartphone
for just $1.99!
PARENT TRANSCRIPT RELEASE FORM West Haven High School 1 McDonough Plaza West Haven, CT 06516
__________________________________________
Student’s Name
I grant permission to submit a copy of my child’s records, official administrative record (name, address, birth
date, grade levels completed, grades, class standing, attendance record), standardized test scores, teacher
recommendations, counselor recommendation, record of extracurricular activities and achievements
(where applicable) and three year transcript, three and a half year transcript and final transcript to:
a. Employees, institutions of higher education, training institutes, armed forces and government
agencies when a specific form is provided by the student to the high school.
b. Others who make a request in writing to the high school which is confirmed by the student or parent.
Please indicate your school counselor letter of recommendation preference below (select one):
Yes, I am requesting a letter of recommendation from my school counselor.
____ I have completed my School Counselor Brag Sheet on Naviance.
____ My parent/guardian has completed the School Counselor Parent Brag Sheet on Naviance or I
have given a hard copy to my school counselor.
____ I have completed my Resume on Naviance.
No, I am not requesting a letter of recommendation from my school counselor.
_____________________________________ __________________
Signature of Parent, Guardians or Date
Student if Above Age or Majority
PLEASE NOTE: West Haven High School NO LONGER sends SAT/ACT scores to colleges. For official
status, students must request their scores to be sent directly to the college when registering for the test(s).
25
Scholarship Club Intake Form
In order to help us search Scholarships for which you may qualify, please
complete the information below, and we can help show you the money!
Name:_________________________________________________________________
Gender: __M __F
Ethnicity: ____________________________
GPA: ________________________________
College Major: _________________________
Sports:
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
Clubs/Activities:
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
Number of Community Service Hours: _______
Receiving Free or Reduced Lunch? __Yes __No
Do either of your parents/guardians have a 4-year college degree? __Yes __No
Leadership positions held:
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
Hardships/circumstances you may want us to know about:
_______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________26
West Haven High School
School Counseling Department
Senior Brag Sheet
The purpose of this survey is to provide your school counselor with supporting information that will assist your
counselor in writing a recommendation for college/scholarship applications. This Senior Brag Sheet is a
survey which MUST be completed on Naviance (About Me tab, left hand side of page)
before a letter of recommendation will be written. Counselors require a minimum of two (2)
weeks to write a letter.
Name: _______________________________________ Date: _______________________
Email:________________________________________ Cell#:_______________________
Anticipated Major/Career Interest Area: _____________________________
1. What do you consider your greatest strength, both as a student and as a person?
Please think about this question and illustrate with examples and experiences.
2. What are your proudest accomplishments?
Academic-
Personal-
3. Do your grades and/or test scores (SAT/ACT) reflect your potential? Please explain.
27
4. Name 3 things about you that a college admission representative should know about you
beyond your GPA, Class Rank and Test Score.
5. What experiences have you encountered related to your present career interest? For
example, volunteer work at a hospital relating to an individual’s interest in nursing.
6. Describe any summer and/or part-time jobs you may have held.
7. Is there any outside circumstance or health issue that has interfered with your academic
performance? How did you handle this setback? Please explain.
If so, do we have your permission to share this? Yes / No (circle one)
8. Discuss any decrease in academic performance or grade you received.
9. Can you name an experience that helped you learn more about yourself?
10. What is the best advice you were ever given?
11. Are you a first generation college student? (Do either of your parents/guardians hold
a four year college degree )
28
Parent Brag Sheet
(Please return to School Counselor)
Name of Student: _________________________________________
1. What do you consider the outstanding accomplishments of your senior student during the past
three or four years? Why did you select these as most important?
2. In what areas has your senior shown the most development and growth during the past three
or four years
3. If you had to describe you son/daughter in three adjectives, what would they be and why?
Please be specific.
4. Are there any unusual or personal circumstances, which have affected your senior’s educational
experiences or personal experiences?
Please feel free to use the back of the paper if your comments do not fit into the space provided.
Thank you.
Parent Signature: _________________________________________________________ 29
West Haven High School
School Counseling Department
Senior Brag Sheet for TEACHERS
Student Name: ____________________________________ Date: ______________
Anticipated Major/ Career Interest Area(s):__________________________________
Dear _______________________________________________________________,
Thank you for agreeing to write my letter of recommendation. The following is supporting
information to assist you in writing a recommendation for college and/or my scholarship
applications. Once complete, please see the reverse side of this form for instructions.
1. What do you consider your greatest strength as a student? How has this strength helped you to
reach your goals? Please illustrate with examples and experiences.
2. Please describe the single academic accomplishment of which you are most proud and tell why you
take special pride in this accomplishment (include comments about the course in which your
recommender is/was the teacher).
3. When faced with academic challenges and setbacks, how do you respond? How will this skill help
you at the college level?
30
4. What academic experiences have you encountered related to your present career interest? For
example, volunteer work at a hospital relating to an individual’s interest in nursing.
5. Name a memorable lesson, essay and/or project you enjoyed in the class taught by the
recommending teacher.
6. Do you have any additional thoughts/comments you want to share?
Procedure for Teachers:
Please hold my letter until l request my letter of recommendation through Naviance. Reminder, if
my college is a Common Application school you will need to complete the CA Teacher Evaluation
and send electronically in Naviance w/my letter.
Please do not hand me your Letter of Recommendation (LOR) or let me see it since it is an official
sealed document.
Please send my LOR to the following colleges via NAVIANCE:
___________________________________________________________________________________
Please place your LOR in the envelope(s) I am giving you since it needs to be MAILED to
the following college(s):
_________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Thank you
31
START: Junior Year
If needed, complete the Common
Application form.
If needed, ask teachers for
recommendation (give at least 2
weeks to complete).
If needed, turn in materials for counselor
to write recommendation (2
weeks needed to complete).
Begin college planning and weekly
log on to your Naviance account.
Determine which colleges require
counselor or teacher input, common app,
and transcripts.
Bring transcript release
form to counseling office (Blue form).
Request transcripts on Naviance.
Determine if college is right for you.
Review Senior Self Checklist (available in college planning
handbook).
(If applicable) Contact
the college board and/or SAT to request test scores be sent to
your colleges.
Gather information about yourself and
complete resume on Naviance.
Review all college application
requirements and deadlines.
Contact the ACT to request test scores be sent to your colleges.
Use Naviance to gather college and
scholarship information.
Login to Naviance and start the year! Keep records of all
you do.
Apply for scholarships and turn in financial aid
forms by required deadlines.
Take practice & admissions tests
(PSAT, ACT, and SAT) and decide when to
take them .
START: Senior Year
Choose among college acceptances and record
in Naviance!
Visit colleges and determine which
colleges need interviews.
Review special resources for
athletes and visual or performing arts.
Consider non-college options if desired.
FINISH!! Your new Adventure
Begins!
Senior College Planning and Procedural
Handbook
West Haven High School
1 McDonough Plaza
West Haven, CT 06516 ~School Counseling Department~
Phone: 203-937-4360
