The class of 2024 is embarking on a new journey that will make or break their future. College, community or 4-year, trade school, esthetician school, workforce, or the military are all possibilities after high school. Making the life-changing decision at only 17 years old poses a challenge.

Scholarships/Financial Aid

Every student tries to avoid debt..but how? One option is applying for a Bright Futures scholarship. There is an academic, medallion, CAPE, and vocational scholarship with their own requirements. Another option is filling out a FASFA form, which, if eligible, gives students federal aid for their higher education. Lastly, students can apply for individual scholarships on Going Merry. Senior Jacob G. says, “The best way to learn about scholarships is to reach out to your guidance counselor or just look it up online.”

ACT/SAT

The ACT and SAT are a big part of the college application process for students, but many have no idea how to get started. Hadyn A. is one of these people as she states, “I’m a senior, and I have no idea what I’m doing after high school, and I have yet to get the ACT or SAT score I want.” If you want to go to a 4-year college that requires test scores or if you apply to a Bright Futures scholarship the ACT and SAT is in the cards for you. To receive the academic scholarship an ACT of 29 and a SAT of 1340 is required. To receive the medallion scholarship an ACT of 25 and a SAT of 1210 is required. Depending on what schools you want to apply to a higher or lower scores may be required for admission consideration.

Common App

The Common App is the universal way to apply for colleges. It allows you to input the colleges you are interested in and turn in/fill out all the necessary information to apply. Depending on what schools you are choosing to apply to, they may require an essay, additional questions, and a deposit of 30 or 85 dollars. Once you apply and pay the deposit on the common app, you will be sent an email that contains the college’s portal link. This link allows you to check your application status and submit all other necessary documents, such as a residency declaration for instate tuition and the SPARK or SSAR form.

SSAR/SPARK

So what is the SSAR and SPARK form anyway? An SSAR form is more commonly known as it applies to a larger range of schools, while the SPARK form only applies to UCF. The purpose of these forms are to input semester grades from 9th through 12th grade, along with 8th, if the credits in transferred. They must be filled out exactly as your transcript states to ensure the school can make an accurate decision on your acceptance.

The college application process is scary and stressful. Asking questions and doing research is the best way to stay informed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get help! No matter where you apply and get into, you’ll achieve great things and find your home.