applying to colleges in the usa
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The PSAT is a preliminary SAT test that you can write in October of your Gr 11 year. You need to notify Ms. McElrea if you are interested in writing the PSAT before Sept 14, 2020. The PSAT is on October 14, 2020 at SMA.
In Gr. 11 and or Gr. 12 you will need to write either the ACT or the or SAT subject tests (check the College Board website to see which is preferred). For best results and financial awards,
I recommend starting to study for the ACT or SAT exam early in your Grade 11 year.
My favourite tool for preparing is Khan Academy
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Write as many practice tests as you can
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Applications to U.S. Colleges do vary, however, a rule of thumb for Early Admission/Decision is to apply by Nov 1st and Regular Admission/Decision by Jan 1.
Most universities and colleges use the 'Common Application' online form for applying:
https://www.commonapp.org/Login
Check the website of the particular university/college you plan to apply to and verify if they use this online form or if they have their own application.
Requirements also vary, especially with Math and Science high school requirements. Be sure to consult the US College's website by Gr 10 to ensure you are making the choices that are in line with the admission requirements. Some Colleges may also require 2 or 3 years of a 'second language' in high school ie: Gr 9 - 11 French.
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read more
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Athletes should consult the NCAA Eligibility Center website to see what courses requirements are needed: http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Quick_Reference_Sheet.pdf
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Check the info on the College Sports Scholarship website: http://www.collegesportsscholarships.com/scholarships.htm
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Access the Manitoba list of specific high school courses that are accepted by NCAA Colleges and enter 998006 where it asks for the NCAA High School Code this is our provincial code.
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You will need to send an original copy of your Gr 9-11 transcript, Gr 12 February interim transcript and your final Gr 12 June transcript. When the university/college or NCAA Eligibility Center has requested a transcript to be sent by SMA - see Ms McElrea
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key pointers - applying to a us college
While it varies from school to school, many U.S colleges limit their international student population to 10% of their overall class. Admit rates for international students tend to be much lower than the overall admit rate, so unless you have dual citizenship or are scouted by a school and offered a spot on a team, the following is very important.
1) Canadian colleges and universities only consider "senior-level" grades, however, U.S. schools look at grades from all four years of secondary school, so you need to put your best foot forward from day one. If your first and second-year grades weren't stellar, that's OK, as long as you show improvement year-over-year. Admission officers are looking for an upward grade trend.
2) Colleges look first and foremost at your course load as an indication of your motivation. The more difficult the course load, the more motivation assumed. You will have an edge over other students if you follow a core curriculum and opt for Advanced Placement Courses.
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3) Your letters of recommendations are the next important step. The more selective colleges put a great deal of time into reading these references for evidence of your motivation and ability.
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4) Your SAT or ACT scores are used to confirm your academic ability.
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5) If you have been involved in extracurricular activities, hobbies, community work, employment, church groups, as well as the traditional school groups and sports teams, all these contribute to your overall development. What you choose to do in that activity is important. Colleges are looking for commitment, expertise and energy, not necessary the long list of endless activities. It is important to pick something that interests you and pursue it in depth.
The admission committee finds out a great deal about you from your transcript and from your references. What these say reflect the choices you have made over a long period of time - which courses you pursued, what kind of academic discipline you practised, what commitment you made to which activities.
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general application requirements
Essay or PSE
The essay serves a dual purpose - it provides an admissions committee with insight into you as a person and as a writer. It must be well-written and it should address an internal issue, one that will create a strong impression of you. Be creative, take chances, and don't be afraid to show a sense of humor. The best essays usually concentrate on a specific experience, talent, relationship, or issue that affects you deeply. The worst essays are those that rehash the list of activities pursued which have already been documented elsewhere on the application.
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Personal Interview
Offer a clearer picture of yourself in a conversation with an admissions counsellor. If the college offers it, an interview is an excellent way to ensure that the admissions committee has a complete picture of you. It is also convincing evidence of your desire to attend that college. - See Ms. Fennell to prepare
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