Should you take the PSAT/SAT/ACT?
You may be wondering if you should still take PSAT, SAT or ACT. For some colleges, scores are not necessarily a required part of the application any longer. There are different ways that colleges are handling the submission of test scores. Truly test optional schools will let you decide if you want to submit scores. If submitted they will take scores into consideration along with other parts of the application. Test free schools will not consider any scores even if you include them. The CSU and UC no longer accept test scores. Go to www.fairtest.org/university/optional for updated information on individual colleges testing policies.
PSAT is the practice test for the SAT given in October each year. We recommend taking the PSAT as early as the freshman year. It is a junior level test, but many high schools allow younger students to take it. In the junior year there could be scholarship opportunities such as National Merit or National Recognition Programs for students who test exceedingly well. Check with your high school in early fall to register.
If you choose to test go to www.sat.org/register. Students who receive free/reduced lunch can ask their counselor for a fee waiver.
If you choose to take the ACT go to www.actstudent.org to register. Students who receive free/reduced lunch can ask their counselor for a fee waiver.
UC/CSU and Private
College Application Dates
University of California: Applications open August 1. You can begin filling out your applications, but you cannot submit them until October 1. The deadline for submitting applications to UC is November 30. To apply go to: www.universityofcalifornia.edu/apply
California State Universities: Applications open October 1. The deadline for submitting to most CSU campuses is November 30. To apply go to: www2.calstate.edu/apply
Private and out of state colleges: Please check with each individual campus for dates to apply and submit applications. Many private and out of state colleges use the Common Application for multiple applications on one site. To apply go to: www.commonapp.
Financial Aid
In order to see if seniors qualify for financial aid, the FAFSA must be completed prior to each year in college.
FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid Application opens October 1st. There is a very strict deadline to submit FAFSA by March 2nd. To apply go to: www.studentaid.gov.
Cal Grant GPA Verification Form: This form must be submitted by March 2nd in order to see if you qualify for state aid. Many high schools submit this form electronically for the entire senior class. Check with your high school counselor to see what the policy is for submitting GPA verification. Cal Grants are only applicable for California colleges. For information go to: www.csac.ca.gov