Lake Zurich High School
______________________
College Planning Guide
Class of 2015
1
LZHS Counseling Department
Lake Zurich High School
300 Church Street
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
847.540.7058 (Phone)
847.438.5198 (Counseling Department Fax Number)
Website: www.lz95.org/lzhs
Mr. Kent Nightlinger, Principal
Ms. Melissa Pikul, Assistant Principal for Student Services
Ms. Laura Beata, Counselor
847.540.4111
Ms. Meghan Geraty, Counselor
847.540.4123
Ms. Lauren Kasdorf, Counselor
847.540.4124
Dr. Craig Lehigh, Counselor
847.540.4120
Ms. Natasha Rosenak, Counselor
847.540.4122
Ms. Leslie Thomas, Counselor
847.540.4118
Mr. Carl Krause, College/Career Counselor
847.540.5438
Ms. Karin Malachowski, Administrative Assistant
847.540.4117
Ms. Paula Giese, Administrative Assistant
847.540.4470
Ms. Ann Rosenquist, Registrar
847.540.4119
ii
Table of Contents
Introduction
1
Self-Assessment
2
High School Curriculum
4
Planning Timeline: Junior Year
5
Planning Timeline: Senior Year
6
College Admission Tests
8
College Admission Categories
11
Factors in the admission Decision
12
Visiting with College Representatives
13
College Comparison Worksheet
14
Public Universities in Illinois
15-16
Community Colleges
17
Visiting Colleges
18
Checklist for Steps in the Application Process
22
Financial Aid
27
Student Athletes
32
Sample Admissions Correspondence
33
Types of Admissions Decisions
37
Terms to Know
38
Helpful Websites
39
Notes
40
iii
College Planning: An Introduction
The purpose of this planning guide is to assist you in your college planning and selection
process. Though very challenging, it can be
completed successfully with critical thinking,
time and organization. In order to make the
most of your college search process it is
important that you take time to evaluate your
strengths, challenges, likes, dislikes, goals and
dreams relative to choosing a college or
university that meets these needs. Keep in mind
that just as individuals have certain
personalities, so do institutions. Take the time
to assess yourself and select what you feel is the
best match.
Self-assessment will be explored in this guide,
but in this process it is also important that you
meet with your counselor in order to plan
effectively. The LZHS Counseling staff is
available to help present information and other
resources for your use. Choosing a college or
university is by far one of the most exciting yet
complicated decisions that you will ever make.
The key to making the decision is knowing
yourself. Assessment is the name of game so
prepare yourself by creating a personal
checklist in order to evaluate your academic,
social and moral factors before you begin to dig
deep into your college search. Remember: you
want to select a school based on fit. The only to
way to know if a particular school is going to be
the right “fit” is to evaluate yourself.
1
Self-Assessment
What do you want to study? Where do you want to go to school?
If you have not heard these questions lately, be sure that you will hear them soon and very
often. In order to choose a college or field of study you have to honestly evaluate your
strengths, challenges, desires, goals and dreams relative to the colleges and universities you
want to explore. One of the best ways to begin is to reflect upon your experience as a high
school student.
The following questions published by the College Board in Looking Ahead to Your Future are
modified to help you in your self-assessment process.
Goals and Values
1. What aspects of your high school experience have you enjoyed the most (academic and
social)? What has been the most disappointing experience for you? What would you
change or do differently?
2. What values are important to you?
3. How do you define success? Are you satisfied with your accomplishments to date?
What do you want to accomplish in the years ahead?
4. Which of your personal strengths would you most like to develop?
5. What experiences have shaped your growth and your way of thinking?
Education
6. What are your academic interests? What courses have you enjoyed the most? What
courses have been the most difficult for you?
7. How do you learn best? What methods of teaching and style of teaching engage your
interest and effort the most?
8. Are learning and academic success respected at your high school? How much do you
genuinely like to read, discuss issues, and exchange ideas? What has been your most
stimulating intellectual experience in recent years?
9. In what area or skill do you feel confident?
10. Have you worked to your potential? Are your standardized test scores and your
academic record an accurate measure of your ability and potential? What do you
consider the best measures of your potential for college work?
11. Are there outside circumstances that have impacted your academic performance?
Activities and Interests
12. What activities do you enjoy the most? What activities have meant the most to you?
13. Do your activities show any pattern of commitment, competence, contribution or
leadership?
14. How would you describe your role at your high school or in the greater community?
What would you consider your most significant contribution?
Personality and Relationships
15. How would someone who knows you well describe your best qualities? Your
shortcomings? Would you agree with their assessment? Do you feel that you have
grown and matured during your high school years?
16. Which relationships are most important to you and why? How are you influenced by
others who are important to you? How do you respond to pressure, competition, and
challenge? How do you react to failure, disappointment, or criticism?
2
17. How do you go about making choices or decisions for yourself? What are the best
decisions you have made recently? How much do you rely on direction or advice from
others? Have you ever chosen anything just because it was new or interesting?
College Preferences
18. What satisfactions and challenges do you expect to encounter in college? To what are
you looking forward? What worries you most? What are the overriding
considerations in your college search?
19. Why do you want a post-secondary education? Why are you going to college? How do
you hope to grow and change throughout college?
20. Which interests do you want to pursue in college? Do your interests require any
special facilities, programs, or opportunities? Are you most interested in career
preparation, technical training, or general knowledge and skills of inquiry?
21. How well do you respond to pressure and academic competition from others?
22. How much structure do you need? How self-disciplined are you?
23. How would you enjoy living in a different part of the country? What kinds of
surroundings are essential to your well being? Are you comfortable around people who
grew up differently than you?
24. How free do you feel to make your college decisions? Do you and your parents agree
on your plans about college? How important to you are the opinions of your parents
and friends? How important is prestige?
Athletic Considerations
25. Do you intend to participate in competitive college athletics and at which level
(Division I-A, I-AA, II, III or NAIA)? What impact will your ability to play have on your
desire to attend a particular institution?
26. Do you expect to be a recruited athlete? Is a scholarship offer critical to your
consideration of a particular college?
27. Are you good enough to compete at an intercollegiate level? How do you know?
3
High School Curriculum
Your high school curriculum is crucial as you focus on finding the best college fit. It is also the
key factor for college admission departments when evaluating prospective students. Though
criteria differ from college to college they all focus on the quality and rigor of your high school
academic program.
In order to determine the level of rigor and quality, admission officers evaluate the weight of
academic subject matter in a course, the grades earned, the level of difficulty and class rank.
Post-secondary institutions generally prefer a college preparatory curriculum which includes
the following:
◦English (Literature and Composition)
◦Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Advanced Algebra)
◦Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
◦Social Studies (World History, U.S. History, American Government)
◦World Languages
It is also recommended that you supplement a strong academic program with enrichment
courses. These can include business, performing arts and applied arts courses.
Colleges look for candidates that take the most
challenging academic program possible and achieve
successfully. Requirements vary from college to college
so it is very important that you coordinate your
course selection with your goals and interests
from information learned during self-assessment
and standardized tests.
4
College Planning Calendar
Junior Year
September—February
 Talk with friends, parents and faculty about colleges and
careers.
 Organize a file box of personal and institutional
information on college & career opportunities.
 Review and analyze PSAT scores.
 Take ACT/SAT prep course.
 Visit with college representatives in the College Career
Center.
 Attend the fall college fair at the College of Lake County.
 Register for senior courses. Take the most demanding
program possible and maintain good grades.
 Attend College Night at LZHS.
 Meet with your counselor or college counselor for help
choosing colleges to research or visit
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March
Earnestly begin your college search.
Complete the self-assessment process.
Attend the spring college fair at the College of Lake County or Barrington H.S.
Visit colleges over spring break, if possible.
Register for ACT and/or SAT I tests if appropriate.
Register for AP exams if applicable.
April
 Take the ACT.
May
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Take the SAT I if applicable.
Take AP exams if applicable.
Start to narrow choices through research, visits, and talks with your counselor and
parents.
June—August
 Take the SAT II if needed.
 Write or call colleges for information. Work on college essay ideas.
 Revise and begin to finalize your college list.
5
College Planning Calendar
Senior Year
September
 Attend Senior Meetings with counselors during assigned time.
 Meet with your counselor or college counselor, if needed.
 Continue your college search. Inquire about applications in the College/Career Center,
call/write the colleges or visit college websites.
 Continue working on rough draft essays and applications.
 Watch the Naviance scholarship list for opportunities and deadlines.
 Investigate scholarships that may be available at prospective colleges.
 Register to take the SAT I and II/ACT tests if you need to take or retake them.
 Submit CSS Profile registration form for schools requiring the profile.
 Politely ask teachers to write recommendations if required.
October
 Take/re-take the ACT or SAT test, if needed.
 Follow-up on teacher/counselor recommendations to be sure they have been
completed.
 Start submitting applications to your counselor. Be sure to check deadlines—especially
for early admission programs. Most of your applications should be submitted to the
Counseling Office by late October or early November. Check deadlines.
November
 Continue the application process, but watch for deadlines.
December
 Parents and students: Attend Financial Aid Night at LZHS.
 Some college acceptance letters may arrive. Be sure to check for special information in
the letter.
 All college applications with a January deadline must be turned in to your counselor by
the end of the first week of December in order to allow time for processing and mailing
before the winter break.
January-February
 Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), which is required for
those applying for financial aid. This can be done online at www.fafsa.gov.
 Continue to check Naviance for local scholarship postings.
March
 Register for AP Exams if appropriate.
 Watch for the Student Aid Report (SAR) to arrive, stating the expected family
contribution. Make sure your colleges have received it. Keep the original.
6
April
 All colleges should respond by the first week of April.
 Decide which college you wish to attend and send a deposit to one school. Inform your
counselor and teachers of the selected choice.
 Update college decisions and choice in Naviance.
May
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Notify the colleges to which you were admitted but do not plan to attend.
Notify the college or university in which you plan to attend by May 1.
Take AP exams if appropriate.
Turn in your final transcript request.
Congratulations! Graduation is finally here!
7
College Admission Tests
Many colleges require the ACT or SAT I. Some of the more highly selective colleges also
require the SAT II. It is your responsibility to know which tests each college requires.
Each time you take an ACT or SAT I, you should take advantage of the prepaid reports and send
your scores to colleges in which you are interested. If a college you apply to does not have a
copy of your test scores, you will need to pay an additional fee for each college to which you
want your ACT scores sent. It may take up to seven weeks for ACT and SAT to process these, so
request by mail or on-line in a timely manner.
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
(PSAT/NMSQT)
This is a practice test of the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT I) and the first step in qualifying
for the National Merit Scholarship Program. It is given to juniors in October.
ACT
This is one of the two test options which may be used for admission to colleges and universities.
All colleges and universities in the United States will accept either the ACT or the SAT I for
admission. Juniors are advised to take the ACT in February, April or June of their junior year.
This test must be taken in the junior year to qualify for the Illinois Student Assistance
Commission’s Honorary Illinois Scholar Award. The ACT is given on six Saturdays annually.
In 2005, the ACT introduced a new component known as the ACT Writing Test. This test is
optional during Saturday ACT dates, but we encourage students to take it at least once because
many colleges and universities recommend or require it. The 30-minute Writing Test is taken
after the multiple choice test is completed and will not affect the composite score. Rather,
students will receive two additional scores: a Combined English/Writing score on a scale of 1 –
36 and a Writing sub score on a scale of 2 – 12.
8
New Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT I)
This is also one of the two test options that may be used for admission. In spring 2005, the
College Board introduced the New SAT. This test will include three sections: Writing, Critical
Reading and Mathematics. Each section for the test will be scored using the familiar scale of
200 – 800.
While many of the selective schools on either coast require the SAT I, all schools will accept
either the SAT or the ACT for admission. Juniors are encouraged to take the SAT I in March,
May or June of their junior year.
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT II)
These tests are given in subjects such as English, foreign languages, science, history and
mathematics. Many selective colleges usually require three subject tests and use them for
admissions and/or placement. They are given on most corresponding dates as the SAT I
testing. You should consider the Writing Test, Math I and one other test of your choice, but be
sure to check with the college or university for their requirements.
Advanced Placement (AP) Tests
These are offered in May in various subject areas. Participants are enrolled in specific AP or
honors courses in their high school to prepare for these tests. Students scoring well in these
(usually 3, 4 or 5) receive college credit and/or placement in the corresponding academic
discipline. Each test is a three-hour comprehensive examination.
College Admission Test Registration
Registration Information

Students are encouraged to register online for the ACT at www.actstudent.org and for
the SAT I and II at www.collegeboard.org . If you prefer paper, registration forms
including important information about preparing for standardized tests may be
obtained in the College Career Center.

Unless otherwise noted the SAT I and SAT II are given at the same time on each of the
test dates. You cannot take both on the same day. You can take up to three SAT II tests
on the same date.

If you are registering for the first time, register as early as possible.
Reporting Your Scores
If a college or university requires that your test scores be sent directly from the testing
companies, you are responsible for requesting them. You can request ACT scores at
www.actstudent.org. For SAT scores please visit www.collegeboard.org .
9
Test Dates
2014-15
SAT Test
Registration Deadline
January 24,2015
March 14, 2015
May 2, 2015
June 6, 2015
December 29
February 13
April 6
May 8
ACT Test
Registration Deadline
February 07, 2015
April 18, 2015
June 13, 2015
January 9
March 13
May 8
Late Registration Deadline
January 9-14
Feb. 27- March 3
April 17-21
May 22-27
Late Registration Deadline
January 10-16
March 14-27
May 9-22
2015-2016
SAT Test
Registration Deadline
Late Registration Deadline
For deadline information visit www.collegeboard.org
ACT Test
September 12, 2015
October 24, 2015
December 12, 2015
February 6, 2016
April 9, 2016
June 11, 20146
Registration Deadline
TBA
10
Late Registration Deadline
College Admission Categories
These general categories are based upon information used in college guidebooks. Colleges and
universities use several different factors to determine admission eligibility. These may include any or
all of the following factors:
◦High school course work
◦Athletic ability
◦Evidence of exceptional motivation
◦Chosen college major
◦Grades in academic courses
◦Leadership/community involvement
◦Test scores
◦Special talents
Admission Competition
Categories
SAT/ACT Scores
Most Competitive
1300-1600
29-36
Recommended High School
Curriculum
4 years English
4 years advanced math
3, 4 years science w/lab
4 years foreign language
3, 4 years social studies
May admit under 20%
of applicants
Honors and AP course work
strongly recommended.
Highly Competitive
May only admit
20 – 30% of applicants
Very Competitive
May admit 33%
of applicants
Moderately Competitive
4 years English
4 years advanced math
3 years science w/lab
4 years foreign language
3 years social studies
1220-1300
27-29
4 years English
4 years advanced math
3 years science w/lab
3 years foreign language
3 years social studies
1140-1220
25-27
950–1140
20–25
4 years English
3 years advanced math
2 years science w/lab
2 years social studies
May admit 40 – 60%
of applicants
Competitive
Applicants from the lower
half of the class
are accepted.
Open Admission
4 years English
3 years advanced math
2 years science w/lab
2 years social studies
910 or less
17–19
Not required
11
General college prep curriculum
12
Visiting with College Representatives
Each year many colleges and universities will visit LZHS to talk with prospective students.
Most college representatives will visit during the fall semester, with some visiting in the spring.
The representative you see here may be the one who will review your application. Here are
some questions to help get you thinking.
What Should I Ask the College Representative?
Admissions
o What are the admission requirements?
o What factors are considered for admission?
Academics
o Does the school offer majors of interest to you?
o What opportunities are there for research or study abroad?
Application
o When should I file for admission?
o What percentages of applicants are admitted?
Tests
o What is the average range of test scores for entering college freshmen?
o Does your school superscore?
o Do I need to take the SAT II?
Financial Aid
o What is the estimated annual total cost?
o What sources of financial aid and scholarships are available?
Housing
o How difficult is it to get on-campus housing? How and when do I apply?
13
College Comparison Worksheet
Use this worksheet to help organize your information.
Comparative Criteria
Name of
Name of
Name of
College
College
College
Enrollment—Undergraduate
Location
Campus Setting:
urban/rural/residential
Tuition, Room & Board, Fees
Admission Requirements
ACT/SAT, Class Rank
Freshmen Average
Class Size
Application Procedure
Deadline
Application Fee
Academic Intensity
Academic Program (major)
Activities or Special Interests
Percentage of Returning
Freshmen
Athletic Programs
Type of Housing Available
Percentage of Students
Receiving Financial Aid
Financial Aid Form
Required/Preferred
Personal Impressions
Parent Opinion
Your Order of Preference
Your chances of admission
14
Name of
College
Public Universities in Illinois
Eastern Illinois University
http://www.eiu.edu
Charleston 61920
Admissions Office: 217.581.2223
Toll-free: 800.252.5711
Undergraduate Enrollment: 10,225
Illinois State University
http://www.IllinoisState.edu/admission
Normal 61761
Admissions Office: 309.438.2181
Toll-free: 800.366.2478
Undergraduate Enrollment: 18,344
Northeastern Illinois University
http://www.neiu.edu
5500 N. St. Louis Ave.
Chicago 60625
Admissions Office: 773.442.4050
Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,191
Northern Illinois University
http://www.niu.edu
101 Williston Hall
DeKalb 60115
Admissions Office: 815.753.0446
Toll-free: 800.892.3050
Undergraduate Enrollment: 18,277
Southern Illinois University at Carbondale
http://www.siu.edu
Carbondale 62901
Admissions Office: 618.536.4405
Undergraduate Enrollment: 15,551
Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
http://www.siue.edu
Campus Box 1047
Edwardsville 62026
Admissions Office: 618.650.3705
Toll-free: 800.447.SIUE
Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,940
15
University of Illinois at Chicago
http://www.uic.edu/depts/oar
Office of Undergraduate Admissions (M/C 018)
P.O. Box 5220
Chicago 60680
Admissions Office: 312.996.4350
Undergraduate Enrollment: 15,964
University of Illinois at Springfield
http://www.uis.edu
Springfield 62794-9243
Admissions Office: 217.206.4847
Toll-free: 888.977.4847
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,027
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
http://www.uiuc.edu
901 W. Illinois St.
Urbana 61801
Admissions Office: 217.333.0302
Campus Visitors Center: 217.333.0824
Undergraduate Enrollment: 31,209
Western Illinois University
http://www.wiu.edu
1 University Circle
Macomb 61455
Admissions Office: 309.298.3157
Toll-free: 877.742.5948
Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,407
16
Community College
Community colleges offer students one-year certificate programs
and two-year career programs. The one- and two-year career
programs are designed to prepare students for immediate
entry into a specific career field.
A sample of more than 40 specialized career programs are
available at the College of Lake County including child
development, nursing, real estate, law enforcement,
automotive technology and computer operation.
The College of Lake County and Harper College have also
developed transfer agreements with all the Illinois state
universities and other public and private colleges. The
transfer agreements allow students admission and junior status
upon completion of their associate degree.
Advantages to Attending a Community College
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You receive a good education at a fraction of the cost of a four-year school.
The college transfer program allows you to get some of your core requirements met in a
less expensive way. It may decrease the need for student loans.
You can establish a college record that will allow you to transfer into four-year college.
Students are offered a variety of programs designed to prepare them for immediate job
market entry.
Classes are small and are taught by faculty who are committed to teaching and
preparing you for your next step: going to a four-year college or starting a career.
If your goal is to transfer credits to an out-of-state college, check with an advisor at the
community college. They will help you design a course schedule geared to the
admission requirements of that particular college or university.
17
Visiting Colleges
The purpose of the college visit is usually twofold: to meet with an admission officer and to
assess the campus. Each purpose requires a different approach. You should contact the
admissions office directly to schedule a visit. Ask about the times and days of the week for
tours and information sessions, as well as the availability of individual interviews.
Like a productive employment interview, successful college visits result from being prepared.
Be prepared to talk about yourself academically and socially. Admission officers and other
representatives will ask about course work, scholastic standing, extra-curricular activities and
your personal life. Know your strengths and your challenges and be ready to talk about what
you value.
The college visit is a great opportunity to shine. Be mindful not to waste your time asking
questions with answers that can be found on college website or guidebook. Instead, ask
questions that demonstrate research and indicate maturity. Share why you are interested in
attending that particular school with great enthusiasm and excitement. The admission officer
will respond to your energy, so be very clear and articulate in expressing your ideas and talk
about the things which motivate you. Remember that the admission officer wants to interview
you, so don’t pretend to be someone you’re not—be yourself.
Manners and appearances are very important. The college visit is an occasion when a jacket
or dress may be appropriate. The degree of formality is established by each institution so ask
about expected attire when you make the appointment. No matter how formal the actual
interview, be sure to bring along casual clothing—the visit may not be spent totally in an
office. Follow-up the college visit with a thank you note after you have returned home.
Possible Questions You May Be Asked During an Interview
1. How did you hear about us?
2. Why are your interested in us?
3. What other colleges are you considering?
4. What are your favorite subjects and activities?
5. What are your strengths/challenges?
6. Do you have an intended major in mind?
7. Tell us about your high school.
8. Tell us about yourself.
9. What books have you read recently outside of required school reading?
10. What do you think you will contribute to our school?
18
Assessing the Campus
One of the most common misconceptions held by high school students is that there is an ideal
college—not true. Any of several colleges or universities may be the right fit for you. On the
college visit, the important discoveries are those characteristics and provisions that are most
important to you. To best assess the atmosphere and offerings of a prospective college, visit the
following places:

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
Library Visit the campus library or libraries. As a college student, you will spend a
significant amount of time there, not just looking for reference materials, but also
studying. Look to see if there are students studying in the library. Is enough quiet
space available? Is the library comfortable and up-to-date with books, periodicals and
other reference material?
Classes Try to visit a class if you will be on campus for more than one day. Choose
courses of interest that differ in level of difficulty, subject and size. Listening to
professors and observing students can help you assess the campus.
Residence Halls Ask to view student rooms and other living spaces. Can you picture
yourself in the environment you see?
Student Union Visit the student union and other places of interest. Be prepared for a
diverse atmosphere.
Other Things to Look for During a Campus Visit
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19
General neatness of the campus
Student attire
Friendliness
Student conversations
Security
Athletic facilities
Library (access to resources)
Labs (science and computer)
Theater facilities
Music and art studios
Sample Questions to Ask During a College Visit
●What areas of study are emphasized, and how do they fit your field of interest?
●What is the amount and kind of study necessary for success?
●What percentage of first-year students return for sophomore year?
●What percentage of students graduate in four years?
●Are there special academic programs? Study abroad?
●Is there an advising system? How is it organized and who are the advisors?
●What types of tutoring programs are available?
●What is the geographic, ethnic, religious, and racial makeup of the student body?
●What special interest groups are available?
●How is admission determined? What is the importance of the ACT? SAT? GPA? Class Rank?
Extra-curricular activities?
●What are the hot issues on campus?
●Is housing available? Is it guaranteed all four years?
●How are roommates assigned?
●What percentage of students go home on weekends?
●What percentage of students are involved in the Greek system? What is the impact of
fraternities and sororities on campus?
●Is there a career planning and placement center for students?
●What is the job placement record for graduates in the field you might study?
●Are merit scholarships available? What are the criteria for selection?
●What forms are required to apply for financial aid?
20
Identifying Factors of Importance
Identifying priorities for the college search is very important for both students and parents.
Complete the following worksheet and ask your parents to review your choices. Compare your
ratings, discuss any major issues and resolve differences before you continue in your plan.
Student/Parent College Selection Worksheet
The number one mistake most college-bound students make is that they go to a school where
they do not fit. Over 50 percent of all college students graduate from a college different from
the one in which they started. Consider what is important to you now and try to anticipate the
type of campus where you will stay to graduate.
What is important to you?
Essential
Factor
Cost (stipulate range)
College Selectivity
Distance from Home
Location
Four-year College
Two-year College
Public
Private
Living Arrangements
Size of Enrollment
Athletics
SAT or ACT Scores
Area of Studies
Activities
Fraternity/Sorority Life
Co-op Programs
Foreign Study
Reputation
Campus Life
ROTC
Safety
Relatively
Important
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Checklist for Steps in the Application Process
The college application process has a beginning, middle and an end. Keep this perspective in
mind and the decision-making process will be easier to get through. Using the following
checklist along with the rest of the information in this planning guide, you should develop an
organized plan for your future.

Proofread your application and note the deadlines on the application form! Make
copies of any applications, essays and correspondence for your own records.

Once you submit your online application, look for a Counselor Page. Not all colleges
have this, but you will want to include this form with the transcript request to be
filled out by your counselor.

Obtain and fill out a transcript request form from the Counseling Office. The transcript
fee is $3.00 for each transcript. Pay the $3.00 transcript fee with the Bookkeeper,
located in the office across from the Performing Arts Center.

Bring your transcript request receipt, and transcript request form to the administrative
assistant in the Counseling Office. If your application requires a counselor and/or
teacher recommendation, you must ask them personally. You should also pick up a
form in the College Career Center to complete and give to teachers in order to assist
them in writing a recommendation for you.

The counselor then completes the appropriate sections (if necessary), writes the
recommendation (if required), and gives the application to the registrar.

The registrar generates the official school transcript with the school seal, which
includes class rank, and GPA. Test scores are not included and are the student’s
responsibility to report directly from ACT or CollegeBoard.

Most colleges or universities require official test scores sent directly from the testing
company, which can be accomplished by one of the following methods:
o Have them sent when you initially
register for the test.
o Submit an additional score report
request online (www.act.org,
www.collegeboard.com)

Registrar mails completed application,
transcript, counselor recommendation (if
applicable) and school profile.
22
Common Application

Students applying using the Common Application still must complete a transcript
request form to have an official transcript and school profile submitted to the college
or university of choice.
Personal Profile
Many applications include a significant section that invites you to show who you are beyond
your transcript and test scores. The personal profile is an important component of a
candidate’s qualifications. This profile includes special academic awards and honors,
community service, athletics, employment, religious activities, school publications, fine arts,
music and performing arts, student government and many more. Unlike test scores and
academic achievement, the personal profile is difficult to evaluate. To give yourself the best
opportunity, you should:
1. Clearly and accurately specify the nature and level of your activities on the
application;
2. Seize the opportunity in an application essay to give insight into the quality of
your contribution in a particular area; and
3. Wisely select adults (in addition to teachers) who will write letters of
recommendation for you.
Application Essay
For many students, the application essay is the most intimidating part of the college
application. Although the importance of the essay varies from college to college, most selective
colleges and universities require that you answer one or more questions during the application
process causing the essay to play a greater role. Whether the question is direct or obscure,
understanding the purpose of the college application essay should help to reduce any anxiety
associated with it.
The application essay is a college’s effort to understand what makes you different from other
applicants. Faced with many applicants with similar GPAs, SAT or ACT scores and extra
curricular activities, the admission officer looks for other ways to distinguish between
candidates for admission.
23
Essay questions have no “right or wrong” answer. What is important is the content of the
essay and how you organize and support your thoughts. Your essay should be a clear
indication of your ability to think analytically and creatively and to communicate your
thoughts in writing.
Here are three guidelines for a strong essay:
1. Make a point;
2. Illustrate that point with details and examples;
3. Use powerful, clear and correct language.
Essay Tips

Answer the question as you think it should be answered, not as you think the admission
officer might want you to answer it.

Follow directions.

Prepare before you write. If you have the option to choose the topic, write about
something you care about; your passions. Talk about the essay with your counselor,
parents or teachers.

Use spirited language accompanied by strong verbs and nouns.

Write in your own voice and remember to be yourself.

Focus on one idea and support it with details.

Stick to the length requested.

Back to following directions—don’t use the essay to justify weaknesses in grades or test
scores. Write a separate letter for this.

Plan ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute. Get started during the summer following
junior year.

Check, and re-check your essay for correct grammar, punctuation and spelling. Also
be sure to read your essay aloud to listen for any mistakes.

Always keep your audience in mind.
24
Sample Essay Questions
1. Please use the space on this page to let us know something about you that we might not
learn from the rest of your application. There is no correct way to respond to this essay
request. In writing about yourself, you will convey to us a sense of yourself.
2. Explain or describe an achievement, significant experience or individual who has/who
had a significant influence on your life.
3. Explain how a particular literary work has influenced you.
4. Describe the benefits of living in a racially, culturally or ethnically diverse environment
or outline what experiences you believe you will need to live successfully in a
multicultural society.
Letters of Recommendation
Many selective colleges require one or two recommendation letters from teachers who know
you well. In some cases colleges only accept letters from teachers of your junior and senior
year. Make sure that you request recommendation letters far enough in advance so that your
teacher has ample time to write a comprehensive recommendation. There are many colleges
and universities, both private and public which do not request recommendations. So request
these letters only when necessary.
The college application usually has forms attached that are to be given to the teachers whom
you select to write your recommendation. Some applications have specific requirements that
need to be followed. Read the directions carefully so that your recommendations arrive at the
right time and in the right place.
Suggestions for Obtaining Recommendations
1. Read the directions on the application to see how many recommendations are needed
and whom you should contact. Create a short list of teachers you think would write
good recommendations for you. You should choose the teachers you had during junior
and senior year.
2. Pick up a Request for Letter of
Recommendation form in the College Career
Center or here. Once you have completed this
form provide a copy for the teachers whom you
want to write a letter for you.
3. Choose teachers who know you well, but also
those from core courses such as English, math, social studies, and science. If possible,
select a teacher in the discipline which you plan to study in college.
25
4. Ask the selected teachers if they are willing to write a letter of recommendation for you.
Do not assume they will—some teachers are asked to write as many as 75
recommendations per year. Be sure to ask early and confirm the request in writing.
5. Provide all of the necessary forms and information to your teacher at least two weeks
before the recommendation letter is due, but a month is better. Since the teacher is
asked to comment on your intellectual and personal traits, provide a summary of your
activities and other interests. Include a pre-addressed, stamped envelope for your
teacher if you would like the teacher to send it on their own. It is best practice to collect
the letter from the teacher and include it with your transcript request form. This
decreases the chances of pieces of your application being lost.
6. About a week before the letter is due, thank your teachers for writing letters for you. If
they have already written their letters, they will appreciate your thoughtfulness; if they
have not yet written the letters your thank you will remind them of the deadline.
7. Students using the Common Application will have their teachers upload the letter to the
Common Application website. When you apply you will have to provide the teacher’s
and counselor’s CORRECT e-mail address.
Activity Sheet/Résumé
Colleges will frequently ask students to report information about their extracurricular
activities, community service, athletic competition and work history. A time-saving yet
professional way to do this is by creating an activity sheet or résumé. Most often, this onepage sheet also includes your personal information (name, etc.) and grade point average.
When organizing this information, keep in mind that most admissions offices want to know
during which school year you were involved with a specific activity and how many hours per
week you contributed.
26
Financial Aid
Next to purchasing a home, the cost of a college education is probably one of the largest
investments a family will make. As college costs continue to rise, more than ever families are
seeking options to assist with this very important investment. While cost is certainly a very
important factor in the decision-making process, it is usually considered last. This is because
students will not hear about their financial aid award until about April of senior year.
Because cost is the last factor to be considered in the college selection process, families are
encouraged to have at least one “financial safety” or affordable college in the final list of
choices. For some this may be a public university.
What is financial aid?
Financial aid is whatever assistance a student receives to help pay for his/her college
education.
Typically colleges will meet the demonstrated need of the students they accept by offering
financial aid. Packages usually consist of the following types of need-based assistance: loans,
grants and work-study.
Another form of assistance is known as merit-based assistance. These awards are granted based
on academic success or special talents, and usually are not affected by the financial need of the
family.
Types of Financial Aid

Grant Need-based money that is federally funded and that
does not have to be repaid. Scholarships are also gifts based on
academic standing, need and/or other requirements.

College Work-Study Allows the student to work federally or
privately funded part-time positions either on-campus or in the
community.

Loan Funds that usually have low interest rates, which must
be repaid, but usually not until a student finishes school.
27
What financial aid forms should I complete?
First, it is important to understand how need is calculated. To apply for federal financial aid, each
family should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Need is calculated by
completing this confidential statement, which makes use of income tax information about your family’s
finances. This information is then used in conjunction with a formula established by law to determine
the demonstrated financial need. Then, all families are given what is known as the Expected Family
Contribution (EFC), a measure of your family’s financial strength, which is used to decide the amount
of financial aid you are eligible to receive. You may complete this form online by visiting
www.fafsa.gov. Online applications are processed faster and decrease the potential to submit mistakes.
A limited number of paper applications are also available in the College Career Center.
To complete the FAFSA online, you must have a PIN or personal identification number. To apply for
your PIN online, visit the Department of Education's PIN site at www.pin.ed.gov. Both students and
parents need to apply for PINs. If you are a dependent student, you and your parent will need to sign
your application. Therefore, we recommend that you and your parents apply for a PIN now.
In order to award campus aid, some colleges may request that you complete an additional form such as
the CSS PROFILE or an institutional form. PROFILE is a service of the College Board—a not-for-profit
membership association of high schools, school systems, colleges and universities, and educational
organizations. The College Board’s mission is to connect students to college success™. Colleges,
universities, graduate and professional schools, and scholarship programs use the information collected
on the PROFILE to help them award nonfederal student aid funds. The College Board does not award
scholarship money or other financial aid. The PROFILE Application is customized for you
based on the information you give when you register for the service. By
completing the PROFILE, you provide the college with a complete picture of
your family’s financial circumstances. PROFILE also allows you to include
explanations about special circumstances on the same application.
Register your customized PROFILE application at
www.profileonline.collegeboard.com.
Unlike the FAFSA, the Profile is not required by every college and
university. Please check to see if this required by the colleges and universities
to which you plan to apply. There is a fee for this service.
The agencies which process this information send a copy of the results to the colleges you request and
also to you. One way to advance this process is for parents to calculate their tax information as soon
after January 1 as possible.
28
The Financial “Big” Picture
College costs are more than just tuition. The total cost includes: tuition, fees, room, board,
books, supplies, transportation and expenses. Consider these examples:



Average cost at a state institution in Illinois:
Average cost at other public schools:
Average cost at a private school:
$15,000/yr
$13,000-27,000/yr
$27,000-$40,000/yr
Below is a very general guideline of your chances of receiving financial aid, with no unusual
financial circumstances, living in northwest Lake County:
Income
Chance of Receiving Aid
$30,000 or less
Excellent chance.
$30,000-$50,000
Good chance.
$50,000-$75,000
You may not receive aid from a public school,
but possibly at a private school.
$75,000 or more
You probably will not receive any federal
assistance, but you may be eligible to receive
campus-based assistance.
There are several factors taken into consideration including, the number of students in college
and other characteristics unique to each family. If you would like to estimate the amount that
colleges may expect you to pay, visit www.finaid.org and complete the estimator. Many
families find this very helpful.
Applying for Scholarships
Seeking out scholarship opportunities whether they be merit-based or need-based requires
time. While a myriad of scholarship opportunities exist, it is rare that scholarships will pay a
substantial amount of college expenses, with the exception of students in the top 10 percent of
the class. Most sizable college scholarship offers are extended to students with the desired
rank, test scores and grade point average.
To assist students with their search, a scholarship bulletin is published and available on our
website on Naviance. Copies of local scholarship applications are available in Naviance as
well. These applications usually increase during the spring semester. Be advised that there are
many companies which “promise” to obtain scholarships for you at a cost. Paying fees to learn
about scholarship opportunities is highly unnecessary and we do not endorse this. It is also
recommended that students utilize websites and databases available on the Internet.
29
Senior Year Time Line for Financial Aid
January—February



Submit your FAFSA! You may also complete this process online at www.fafsa.gov.
Parents may need to estimate their 2011 tax information, if they have not yet filed their
taxes. You want to submit your FAFSA soon after January 1 as possible. Also, pay close
attention to college financial aid deadlines!
Check your Student Aid Report (from FAFSA) for accuracy. If your report has errors,
return to the processing center for corrections. File the final corrected copy with your
other college related information.
March—April

Watch for any mail that may come from the financial aid office at any of the schools to
which you’ve applied. Open these letters immediately as they may contain time
sensitive information. Call the college or university to confirm that all of your forms
have been received.
Possible Sources for Financial Assistance






Civic organizations (Rotary, Lions, Fraternities)
Religious organizations
Parent/student employers (e.g. Clara Abbott
Foundation)
Extra-curricular affiliations
Financial institutions, insurance companies
College-sponsored programs
Website Resources





U.S. Department of Education
Financial Aid Information Page with estimators
Illinois Student Assistance Commission
Fastweb (scholarship database)
FAFSA on the web
30
www.ed.gov
www.finaid.org
www.collegezone.com
www.fastweb.com
www.fafsa.gov
Questions to Ask Colleges About Financial Aid

What kind of financial aid does the college offer: need-based, merit-based, or both?
What forms are needed in order to apply?

When is the financial aid application deadline?

What institutional costs are taken into consideration by the financial aid offer? Tuition,
room, board? Books and fees, transportation expenses?

When will the family be notified about the amount of assistance they could expect?

Does the institution have an appeal process to review special circumstances?

Is financial aid available after the first year?

How and when do you apply for financial aid after the freshmen year?

What if the family doesn’t qualify for need-based assistance? Are there other financing
options available?

What is the average loan indebtedness of students at the time of graduation?

How long does it take a student to graduate?
31
Student Athletes
A student interested in participating in athletics at a
Division I or II college or university is required to meet
academic guidelines as established by the National
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), an organization
that governs and enforces rules on athletic eligibility,
recruiting, and financial aid.
Another governing association is the National Association
of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). There are more than
300 schools that have membership in the NAIA. These
schools tend to have relatively small student enrollments.
Most NAIA schools do offer some athletic scholarships. For
more information about the NAIA, check out their website
at www.naia.org.
Within the NCAA there are Divisions I, II, and III. Colleges and universities are placed in a
division according to the size, scope of athletic programs, and availability of funds for
scholarships. Division I and II schools offer athletic scholarships, and are mostly large and
medium in size. Athletic scholarships are not offered at Division III schools. The only
assistance that might be given would be through academic awards, merit, or need-based
financial aid. Many of the specific NCAA requirements for athletes do not apply to Division III
schools, as no athletic scholarships are awarded.
A student, who intends to participate in Division I or II
athletics as freshmen, must register and be certified by
the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Center. The process for
becoming certified should start immediately following
the end of your junior year by registering with the
Eligibility center. The Clearinghouse application is
available on-line at www.eligibilitycenter.org.
You will then need to complete a transcript request form
and provide the $3.00 fee. Transcripts from every high
school attended as well as ACT/SAT scores must also be
sent. For any questions about NCAA initial-eligibility
check their website.
Visit http://www.lz95.org/assets/1/6/Student-Athlete_Packet_12-13.pdf
for the Student Athlete Handbook for Lake Zurich Students and more information.
32
Sample Admissions Correspondence
It is very important that communication be a priority in your college search and selection
process. If your goal is to request applications, calling or expressing your interest through email is appropriate. If you would like to arrange a campus visit, you should contact the
admissions office to make arrangements. For the following, you may use standard mail or email. The sample letters below represent appropriate responses for some of the most commons
situations you will encounter.
Thank You for Your Visit Letter
Date
Director of Admissions
Any College or University
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Dear ____________:
Thank you for spending time with me when I visited your campus. I especially appreciated your arranging for me
to see (name of activity or interest).
The visit increased my interested in (name of college or university). I am very excited about the opportunity to
attend (name of college or university).
Once again, thank you!
Sincerely,
Signature
Name
Your street address
City, State, Zip
Telephone
33
Thank You for the Alumni Interview
Date
Name of Alumnus or Alumna
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Dear ____________:
Thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to give me the opportunity to discuss (name of college or
university and my qualifications for admission. You were most helpful. Your personal experience has given me a
better understanding of why I would like to attend (name of college or university).
Sincerely,
Signature
Name
Your street address
City, State, Zip
Telephone
College Acceptance Letter
Date
Director of Admissions
College or University
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Dear __________:
I am a senior at Lake Zurich High School in Lake Zurich, IL, and was pleased to be informed by your office that I
have been accepted for admission in the fall term. I will be looking forward to attending (name of college or
university). Thank you for your favorable decision.
Sincerely,
Signature
Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
Telephone
34
Withdrawal of Application Letter
Date
Director of Admissions
College or University
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Dear __________:
I was pleased to be accepted as a student at (college or university). However, after much consideration, I have
decided to attend another school. Know that this decision was very difficult.
Please withdraw my application and accept my thanks for your help and consideration.
Sincerely,
Signature
Name
Your Street Address
City, State, Zip
Telephone
Confirmation for a Teacher who has agreed to write a College Recommendation
Date
Dear ___________:
Thank you for agreeing to write a recommendation for me. Here is some information that will help you with this
letter.
On the enclosed sheet I have listed the names and deadlines of each school needing a copy of your letter and
attached a pre-addressed stamped envelope for each. I have also enclosed additional information about my
academic and extra-curricular involvements.
Again, thank you for taking time to recommend me. I will be sure to let you know what my status is as soon as I
hear.
Sincerely,
Signature
Name
Your street address
City, State, Zip
Telephone
35
Sample Cover Letter for Athletes
Date: Spring Junior Year
Coach’s Name
Address
City, State, Zip
Dear Coach (Coach’s Last Name):
The Lake Zurich coaching staff recommends that I forward to you the attached athletic resume outlining my
scholastic and athletic achievements. This year I am a starting varsity football and baseball player at Lake Zurich.
I am very interested in attending your school. A dedicated student, I plan to pursue a degree in Communications
after graduation from Lake Zurich High School in (Month and Year of Graduation).
I would like to discuss with you, or your representative, the possibility of participating in your athletic program.
For your convenience, I have attached the remainder of my football schedule as well as the complete baseball
schedule. I look forward to meeting you in the near future.
Sincerely,
Signature
Your Name
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Telephone
36
Types of Admissions Decisions

Early Admission
An extraordinary student would terminate his/her high school education after the junior year
without earning a high school diploma and enroll in college.

Early Decision
This is a binding agreement stating that he/she must enroll unless the financial aid award is
inadequate. The student generally ranks in the top 10-20 percent of the class and has a strong
grade point average and test scores. Usually the student must apply by early November to that
particular school. The student forfeits the right to wait until May 1 to reply to an offer of
admission. This option should only be selected if the student is absolutely sure that this particular
school is the one in which he/she wants to attend. If accepted, you must withdraw all other
applications. Before applying Early Decision, it is very important that students thoroughly review
all the requirements and consequences of such a program and talk it over with your counselor.

Early Action
Early Action is a plan offered by a few schools that does not require the student to attend if
accepted. Application is usually in early November and the student is notified much earlier than
April.

Deferred Decision
With this decision, the college or university
determines that more information is needed to
make a final decision about a candidate’s
application. Many times the decision is not
reviewed until the receipt of seventh semester
grades and or new test scores.

Regular Admission
Usually there is a specific deadline for applying
and the student is notified by April
15. He/she must notify the college or university
by May 1 if planning to attend.

Rolling Admissions
With this format, the college or university
continually processes applications and the
student receives a reply within four to six weeks
after the application is submitted.

Open Admissions
This usually applies to community colleges.
Students are accepted upon application, as long
as you graduate from high school.
37
Terms to Know

College
An institution of higher learning, offering an academic degree, which may be public or private
and can be a two-year or four-year.

University
An institution of higher learning having more than one college and offering graduate
programs.

Technical College
A public or private institution in which students obtain a trade or skill such as electronics,
commercial art, etc.

Matriculation
Formal enrollment in a college or university.

Major/Minor
A concentration of related courses in a field of study generally consisting of 24 to 50 semester
hours or 60 to 90 quarter hours. A minor is a concentration of courses in an area consisting of
12-18 semester hours. Some majors require a minor concentration.

Common Application
A single application which is accepted by more than 500 institutions. Participating institutions
pledge to view this common application as equal to their own.

Semester Plan
College year divided into two or three parts.

Quarter Plan
College year divided into three or four parts.

Waiting List
A list maintained by selective schools of applied students who are viewed as successful, but
cannot be admitted until those who have been accepted decide if they will attend. Typically,
students are admitted from a waitlist by the end of June. Students who are waitlisted should
contact their counselor immediately to determine action to be taken.

Liberal Arts
An academic program structured to provide broad knowledge in the sciences, social sciences,
languages, philosophy and literature. If you are undecided about a major, a liberal arts college
is an excellent choice.
38
Helpful Websites
Numerous college guidebooks, catalogs, and related materials are available in the College Career
Center. However, the World Wide Web also offers a vast amount of information to help you with your
college search. These websites are examples of the available information.
Testing, Tips and Information
www.actstudent.org
www.collegeboard.com
General College Information
www.careercruising.com
www.petersons.com
www.collegenet.com
www.edonline.com/cq/hbcu/ (Historically Black Colleges and Universities)
www.collegview.com
www.princetonreview.com/college
Financial Aid and Scholarship Information
www.finaid.org
www.collegezone.com
www.fastweb.com
www.scholarships.com
www.collegeanswer.com
www.profileonline.collegeboard.com (CSS/Profile)
www.fafsa.gov (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
www.students.gov
www.studentaid.ed.gov
www.irs.gov (tax relief information)
College Athletics
www.ncaa.org (National Collegiate Athletic Association)
www.eligibilitycenter.org (NCAA Registration)
39
Notes
40