JUNIORS:

Start to plan future goals.

Attend JECHS’ “College Night” for information on how to get to college (watch the Eagle Express).

Check out colleges by looking through brochures, writing for information, attending College Nights, visiting college campuses (JECHS College Trip to take place in early Spring) and talking to college representatives (JECHS hosts several college counselor visits in September and October).

Take the PSAT exam in October.  Review results.  Sign up for “My College Quick Start.”

Take SAT and ACT exams in the spring. (SATs are required for all colleges, SAT Subject Test is required for all UCs) .

Take an SAT preparation class if needed.

Keep in mind that the colleges look for:

-          challenging coursework

-          a strong GPA

-          involvement in extra curricular activities, church & community service

-          strong scores on SAT or ACT exams

SENIORS: 

Narrow your list of college choices to 4 - 8 schools.  Meet with your counselor to share your plans!

Update your High School Activity Record (sample included in College Bound packet).

Attend local college fairs – Christian College Fairs in September, Delta College Night (Ucs and CSUs) in October.

Apply to colleges in the fall.  Apply to CSU’s by October 31^st and UC’s by November 30^th. Check out individual deadlines for private universities!

Take the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and/or ACT exams no later than December.  Have your scores sent to the colleges you are applying to.  (Jim Elliot Christian High School Code: 051444). 

Request official transcripts from the counselor and letters of recommendation from your teachers, giving at least one week’s notice.   

Complete the FAFSA (financial aid application) in February.  (Final deadline early March)

Attend “Cash for College Night” at Delta College or Lodi High for assistance.

Check the counselor’s office for scholarship information and applications. Also, contact individual colleges for financial aid packets and scholarships.  Pay close attention to the monthly College and Scholarship Newsletter, which will be emailed out at the end of each month (see downloads).