INTRODUCTION
The college search process is an important and often stressful part of your educational voyage. As your
guidance counselors, we are excited to be a part of that college search process. It is our firm belief that
researching, visiting, and ultimately selecting a college is the finale of one’s experience at Germantown High
School. A student can learn a great deal about himself or herself through the college search process. The GHS
Counseling Office hopes to be of assistance to you and your families as you navigate the waters of the college
process.
Ultimately we are trying to answer one question: what is the best college for you? Many people will readily
offer you their opinion on this matter – your friends, your neighbors, US News and World Report magazine. We
urge you to keep in mind that the “best” college for a student is one where he or she feels at home, can receive a
good education, and contribute to the campus community. In other words, we are searching together to make a
match between student and college.
Peer pressure—both among students and among parents—is one of the most difficult components of the college
search process (peers are also the source of a great deal of misinformation about colleges and college planning).
Your counselor will treat college selection as a private matter, and we hope you do the same.
The handbook is in no way designed to be complete; instead, it is designed to help you start the college
selection and application process. Some information may change, particularly regarding tuition and other
college-related expenses. For current information, contact the college directly. Websites are provided for easy
access of current information.
The handbook should not be considered to be legal, financial or other professional advice. The information is
intended to be accurate, but Germantown High School and the Guidance personnel do not assume liability as a
result of reliance on this data.
Best of luck!
Rebecca Cobb, Shannon Cox and Taylor Walden
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GHS Counseling Office Information
The Counselor’s Office is comprised of three counselors, a secretary, data entry and a registrar. Our office hours
are from 7:45-3:45 Monday through Friday.
Counselors:
Shannon Cox (A-G)
Taylor Walden (H-N)
Rebecca Cobb (O-Z)
scox@madison-schools.com
twalden@madison-school.com
rcobb@madison-schools.com
Stephanie Volk, Data Entry
Jana Combes, Registrar
Lorrie Smith, Administrative Assistant
*SCHEDULE CHANGES:
You will meet one-on-one every January with a guidance counselor to choose your courses for the upcoming
school year. You are urged to take your course selection process VERY seriously. Get maximum information
for your decisions at this time since changing your selections after the fact will be very difficult. Your counselor
will review the choices, check prerequisites and consider graduation requirements as well as college
requirements. Failure to choose the correct course could result in frustration for you later!
Madison County has a NO DROP POLICY on scheduled classes. Absolutely no change of schedules will be
made except for administrative/academic purposes.
*NEWSLETTERS:
Another way to communicate with our students is through newsletters. These newsletters offer important test
dates, scholarships, upcoming events and other pertinent information. Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors will
receive newsletters at least twice times a year (with first and third report cards). Seniors are issued newsletters
once a month at the beginning of the month. Extra copies are always available in the Counselor’s Office and on
www.ghsmavs.com.
*REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS:
All report cards and progress reports will be given to your child during homeroom. Be sure you write down the
dates and ask your child for the report when he/she gets home! The final report card in May will be mailed to
your home. Therefore, if your mailing address has changed, please come by the front office to provide the
appropriate residency information.
*PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES:
Anytime you want to meet with your child's teachers, please do not hesitate to contact your child's counselor.
She will set up a time for you to meet with them before school or after school. Don't forget we encourage you to
stay in close contact with your child's teachers via telephone or e-mail as well!
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*TRANSCRIPTS:
For students who have already graduated: upon written request, a student's transcript will be sent to any
designated agency, college or school. The student must request, upon graduation, that a final transcript be sent
to the agency or college of his/her choice. Transcript request should be sent to Jana Combes in the Counselor’s
Office of Germantown High School, 200 Calhoun Parkway, Madison, MS 39110. All request must include the
following information: name of the student at the time of attendance, date of graduation or date last attended,
date of birth, address to mail transcript, number of copies, date of request, a telephone number to reach person
requesting the information, and a signature.
For current GHS students: As a part of the admissions process, most colleges require a 7 semester and/or
complete official 8 semester transcript. The transcript contains all the high school semester grades and ACT or
SAT test scores. It is the student's responsibility to request, in writing, that a transcript be sent. You or your
child can request a transcript simply by filling out a form in the Counselor’s Office. No requests via e-mail
please. Seniors, be sure you apply to the college or university BEFORE sending them a transcript. Also, if you
need your current GPA added to your transcript, please let us know. Adding your GPA is not standard
procedure until graduation.
*ACTIVE PARENT REGISTRATION:
You may now access your student’s weekly class averages, attendance, schedule and school news information
by setting up an Active Parent Online account. Forms are available in the GHS Counselor’s Office or may be
faxed to you upon your request. The form must be completed, signed and returned to GHS. Return faxed forms
are accepted. You must provide a username which is your last name and last 4 digits of your Social Security
Number. In addition, you must provide a password which must include at least 4 alpha and at least 2 numeric
characters which may be in any order. Once a completed form is received, your account will be established and
you can access your student’s information by logging on to www.ghsmavs.com and selecting the SAM 6i for
Parents link, or by going to www.madison-schools.com and selecting the SAM 6i Database link.
Please fill out the registration form and return it to the GHS attendance desk or you may fax your form to 601859-0389.
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Germantown High School
Graduation Requirements
English (4 Carnegie units)
Math (4 Carnegie units)
English I
English II
English III
English IV
Algebra I
Geometry
Algebra II
one other full credit
math credits through
Geometry arerequired*
Science (4 Carnegie units)
Biology I
At least 1 physical science***
Two other full credits
***This includes Physical Science and any Chemistry or Physics
Health (1 Carnegie units)
History (4 Carnegie units)
MS Studies
World Geography
World History
US History
US Government
Economics
Computer (1 Carnegie unit)
.5 - Comprehensive or
.5 - Keyboarding
Individual Health
.5 – Computer Application
.5 - Physical Education or any MPSAA
or 1 - STEM
approved activity (athletics, band, ROTC, etc)
Fine Arts (1 Carnegie unit)
Band
Art
Theatre
Choral Music
General Music
Electives (5 Carnegie units)
Any courses of your choice
TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION: 24
State mandated exit exams:
 All students must pass Subject Area Tests in:
 US History from 1877
 English II
 Biology I
 Algebra I
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2005-06, only 3
Recommendations for Admission to Public
Universities in Mississippi
Any student who meets the graduation requirements for high school graduation is automatically eligible for
entrance into a 2-year or community college. The ACT test is also required for admission.
English (4 Carnegie units)
English I
English II
English III
English IV
Science (4 Carnegie units)
Biology I
Chemistry
Any 2 lab-based sciences
Computer (.5 Carnegie unit)
Math (4 Carnegie units)
Algebra I
Geometry
Algebra II
One full credit above Algebra II
History (4 Carnegie units)
MS State & Local Gov’t
Geography
World History
US History
US Government
Economics
Fine Arts (1 Carnegie unit)
Band, Art, Theatre, Choral Music
or General Music
Required Elective (2 Carnegie units)
One Carnegie unit must be one of the following two:
 Advanced World Geography
OR
 Foreign Language
The other Carnegie unit must be one of the following:
 2nd year language, Advanced World Geography, 5th year math, or 5th year lab
based science
Mississippi’s 8 public universities:
Alcorn University
Mississippi Valley State University
Delta State University
Mississippi University for Women
Jackson State University
University of Mississippi
Mississippi State University
University of Southern Mississippi
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_____Algebra
_____Biology
_____English II
_____US History
Name:______________________________________________
English: (4 credits)
_____English I
_____English II
_____English III
_____English IV
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION
Math: (4 credits)
_____Algebra
_____Geometry
_____Algebra II
_____Math
Science: (4 credits)
_____Biology
_____Science (Physical)
_____Science
_____Science
PE/Health: (.5 credit of each)
_____Comp. or Ind. Health
_____ PE
The Arts: (1 credit)
_____May choose from Band, Art,
Choral Music, General Music,
or Drama
Social Studies: (4 credits)
_____MS Studies (.5)
_____World Geo (.5)
_____World History (1)
_____US History (1)
_____Economics (.5)
_____US Government (.5)
Business & Technology: (1 credit)
_____Keyboarding (.5)
_____Computer App. (.5) or 1 Credit of STEM
Electives: (5 credits)
____________________ _____
____________________ _____
CREDITS EARNED:
____________________ _____
Summer
____________________ _____
8th grade ______
______
____________________ _____
9th grade ______
______
____________________ _____
10th grade ______
______
____________________ _____
11th grade ______
______
____________________ _____
12th grade ______
______
____________________ _____
____________________ _____
____________________ _____
____________________ _____
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED: 24
CREDITS EARNED TO DATE: ______
SR YEAR CREDITS NEEDED: ______
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Specific courses needed for senior year
1.
English IV (1 credit)
2.
U.S. Government (.5); economics (.5)
3.
_____________________________
4.
_____________________________
5._________________________
6._________________________
7._________________________
8._________________________
Additional recommended requirements for freshman entrance to a Mississippi 4-year college/university:
_____ 4 years lab based science (Bio, Chem, & two more)
_____ one math higher than Algebra II
_____ Foreign language
_____ 2nd year language, 5th math credit
OR
(Algebra I and 4 others higher than Alg)
_____ Advanced World Geography
or a 5th Lab based Science credit
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SENIOR YEAR CALENDAR
All Year
 Meet with college representatives as they come to our campus. Dates can be found on the GHS
Counseling Office website.
 Listen to the announcements, check with your counselor regularly, and check the Counselor’s Office
web site often to learn of college sponsored functions, scholarships and other college preparatory
events. You can also sign up for text message alerts.
 Pay attention to deadlines for admissions, scholarships, and financial aid.
 Be aware of ACT and SAT registration dates. As you receive scholarship offers, even those you may
not plan to accept, keep a copy and place them in a file. Even if you are not going to accept them, you
will be asked to list them all for Senior Awards Day in May.
 Stay focused on your academics. Colleges and universities will ask for your senior grades at mid-year
AND after graduation. A drastic change in your grades may jeopardize your admission and/or
scholarship status.
 If you are an athlete planning to pursue sports at a Division I or Division II college or university,
register for the Clearinghouse through NCAA if you have not already done so. Visit
www.ncaaclearinghouse.net to register online. You must also request that a transcript be sent from your
high school.
 Meet regularly with your counselor. Keep her up-to-date with your plans for next year.
 Start a separate file on each college to which you are applying. Keep copies of all
correspondence, including photocopies of applications and essays.
 When colleges request teacher recommendations, give the forms to the teacher of your choice with
stamped envelopes addressed to each college. Give the teacher a list of your colleges and their
deadlines. Please allow at least two weeks before the first deadline. Remember, the teacher is doing you
a favor.
 Attend the College Fair at GHS.
 Get all college applications, scholarship applications and essays completed and mailed by
the deadline.
 You will be given a Senior Newsletter each month, please pay close attention to them!!
August
 Narrow your list of colleges down to the 3 to 5 you are serious about and plan a private visit these
campuses. *Remember that you will have 2 college days as a senior at GHS*. Finalize your
college search by contacting any new colleges you may have added to your list of potential college
matches. Remember to ask for catalogs, applications and scholarship information. At this point, you
should have a well-established range of schools based on admission criteria, affordability, and any other
factors that are important to you and your family.
 Call each college admissions office and request an appointment for a visit.
 With your parents or friends, plan each trip with a definite agenda for your campus visit.
September
 Be sure you meet one-on-one with your counselor, if you have not already done so, to be sure you are
set for graduation and college.
 Your counselor will give you your six semester GPA the beginning of this month in order to complete
applications.
 If you have not already done so, obtain a catalog, application form and financial aid information from
the colleges that interest you. Colleges now posted these on their web-site.
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 Make sure you are at school to take the ACT on the GHS campus.
 Update your resume based on your high school activities, community service, and work experience.
 Plan to register for the October ACT test
October
 Take at least one of your campus visits this month. (Keep a journal of your impressions)
 If you are applying “Early Decision”, watch your deadlines – they are fast approaching!
 Select teachers who know you well and ask them to write letters of recommendation for those colleges
and scholarships requiring them. Always to present these teachers with a copy of your resume and ask
at least 2 weeks in advance of the deadline.
 Register for the December ACT test. Remember that the December ACT test is usually the last ACT
score most colleges will accept for their scholarships.
 Compile a list of financial aid forms and deadlines required by the colleges you are interested in – be
sure to update this list monthly!
November
 Deadlines for most “Early Decision” applications are this month!
 Regular decision applicants should give recommendation forms to teachers, along with your resume and
a stamped envelope addresses to the college.
December
 Have all application materials with a January 1-15 deadline turned in to your counselor by December 1.
 Register for the February ACT test.
 Use Christmas vacation to finish your college applications.
st
 Be well prepared for 1 semester exams – your GPA and class ranking will be updated based on your
st
performance during 1 semester. More than likely, these are the last grades colleges will see prior to
making an admission decision.
January
 Pick up a copy of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on-line if you plan to apply
for financial aid. When applying for financial assistance, obtain the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA, www.fafsa.ed.gov). Find out what your colleges require, and make sure you find
out what the financial aid deadline is for each institution to which you are applying. The FAFSA form is
not to be completed until your parents have income tax information for the previous year and may not
be submitted before January 1 of your senior year.
 Your counselor will give you your seven semester GPA the beginning of this month in order to
complete applications.
 Parents should organize and complete income tax returns as soon as possible to enable you to complete
the FAFSA.
 Complete and mail in or file online the FAFSA. (www.fafsa.ed.gov). In most cases, financial aid is
awarded on a first come, first served basis. Photocopy all forms for your files before mailing them.
Applying online cuts processing time in half. If applying online, remember to keep track of
confirmation numbers. Even if your family has not completed their taxes, it is best to estimate in order
to meet college deadlines. You can always make changes.
 Go on-line for information regarding MTAG, MSEG, or HELP grant programs from the state of
Mississippi. (www.ihl.state.ms.us)
 Update your resume
February
 Males who are 18 or over must register with the Selective Service in order to receive federal financial
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aid. Inquire at the local post office.
Begin mailing scholarship applications – per deadline dates.

March
 Register for the April ACT test
 Expect to receive the Student Aid Report (SAR) approximately 4-6 weeks after filing the FAFSA. The
SAR will summarize the data on your FAFSA and indicate your ‘Expected Family Contribution” to the
college(s) indicated for the upcoming school year.
 Sign up for AP tests in the Counselor’s Office.
 As acceptance letters come to you in the mail, begin narrowing down your college choices. Engage in
conversations with your parents regarding the pros and cons of each opportunity. This will maximize
your opportunity to make a well-informed decision.
 Beware of spring fever/”senioritis”. You must maintain your grades. Colleges require a final transcript
upon graduation. They can and will withdraw acceptances and/or scholarship offers based on poor
senior year grades.
April
 Many colleges will begin announcing their scholarship offers this month!
 If you are accepted at more than one college, decide what college you will attend and write a letter
declining acceptance at the colleges you will not be attending.
 Make decisions on how to pay for costs not covered by the financial aid award. Shop for and complete
Student Loan applications. The Office of Financial Aid at the college for your choice is there to assist
you with this process – from start to finish – so call them if you have any questions!
 Register for the June ACT test.
 Be sure you notify the Counselor’s Office of ALL scholarship offers you have received.
 Colleges will have mailed their decisions no later than mid-April. Take time deciding which college is
right for you.
 Once you have made up your mind, notify ALL colleges that accepted you where you will be attending.
This will allow the colleges to go to their waiting list, which may help one of your classmates.
May
 Take AP exams or CLEP exams for college credits.
 Continue working hard to ensure the best possible class rank, GPA, and completion of graduation
requirements.
 Complete the “Final Transcript” form at Senior Awards Day practice to ensure your high school
transcript is sent to the appropriate place. Be sure you send it where you need it if you will be attending
summer school.
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EXPLORING COLLEGE ENTRANCE TESTS:
*Description of the ACT:
The ACT (No Writing) consists of four multiple-choice tests: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. The
ACT Plus Writing includes the four multiple-choice tests and a Writing Test.
Test
Content
English
75 questions
45 minutes
Mathematics
60 questions
60 minutes
Reading
40 questions
35 minutes
Measures reading comprehension.
Science
40 questions
35 minutes
Measures the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problemsolving skills required in the natural sciences.
1 prompt
30 minutes
Optional
Writing Test
Measures standard written English and rhetorical skills.
Measures mathematical skills students have typically acquired in courses
taken up to the beginning of grade 12.
Measures writing skills emphasized in high school English classes and in
entry-level college composition courses
Top 10 Reasons to Take the ACT:
1. Tests what students have learned in high school
 Measures academic achievement in areas of English, Math, Reading and Science
2. Does not penalize for guessing
 Scores are based on the number of correct answers
3. Does not require expensive test prep
4. Tells a student what they know and are likely to be able to do
 Provides College Readiness Standards
5. Gives a student the option to take the Writing Test or not
6. Accepted by all four college nationwide for admission
7. More than 2/3 of colleges use the ACT to place students in appropriate Math and English courses
8. It's affordable
 (ACT $38.00 and ACT Plus Writing $54.50) *based on 2014-15 figures
 Expanded fee waiver policy
9. Students have control over their test scores by test date
10. Takes less time
*TIPS FOR TAKING THE ACT:








Carefully read the instructions on the cover of the test booklet.
Read the directions for each test carefully.
Read each question carefully.
Pace yourself—don't spend too much time on a single passage or question.
Pay attention to the announcement of five minutes remaining on each test.
Use a soft lead No. 2 pencil with a good eraser; do not use a mechanical pencil or ink pen.
Answer the easy questions first, then go back and answer the more difficult ones.
On difficult questions, eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, then make an educated
guess among those remaining.
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




Answer every question. Your scores on the multiple-choice tests are based on the number of
questions you answer correctly. There is no penalty for guessing.
If you complete a test before time is called, recheck your work on that test.
Mark your answers neatly. Erase any mark completely and cleanly without smudging.
Do not mark or alter any ovals on a test or continue writing the essay after time has been called or
you will be dismissed and your answer document will not be scored.
If you are taking the ACT Plus Writing, see the writing test tips from www.act.org.
*ACT FINANIAL ASSISTANCE:
Please see your counselor if you are in need of financial assistance for the ACT and you are classified as a
Junior or Senior. If you qualify for ACT financial assistance, many colleges will waive their admissions fees as
well.
*HOW DO COLLEGES USE ACT SCORES?
ACT scores are one of the tools universities use when selecting students for admission. But they also use score
reports for other purposes, such as course placement and student guidance. Here are just four examples of the
many ways universities use score reports:
1. Admissions. ACT test results—along with high school grades, academic preparation and
extracurricular activities—help college admission officers identify which students will thrive at their
institution. Scores alone do not determine admission.
2. Course placement. ACT scores, academic background and high school grades are used together to
determine which college sections would be most appropriate for each student.
3. Academic advising. College advisors look at ACT results, high school grades and classes, projected
college grades, employment plans and other factors to help students find the perfect fit for his or her
course of study.
4. Scholarships and loans. Some scholarships may use ACT scores and estimated grades to identify
qualified candidates. ACT's unique score report also provides information about a student's educational
needs, extracurricular achievements and educational plans. Agencies can use ACT data with other data
to evaluate applications for both scholarships and loans.
*HOW DO YOU REGISTER TO TAKE THE ACT?
Simply go to www.actstudent.org and complete the registration information. Do not forget to enter our school
code (251-749) so that your score will appear on your transcript. And make sure you upload your picture
before the deadline.
*HOW MANY TIMES DO I NEED TO TAKE THE ACT?
ACT has now only allow students to take the ACT 12 times. However, we encourage you to take the test AS
MANY times as you need to in order to obtain the composite or sub score you need.
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*REGISTERING FOR THE ACT:
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There are two ways to register for the ACT. One way is to fill out a packet that can be picked up in the
Counselor’s Office. The other way is to fill out the information online. The web site is www.actstudent.org.
Please do not forget to add our school code or we will not receive scores that are added to transcripts. When
registering, you are asked "Your High School Code", please be sure you enter: 251749 for Germantown High
School.
FOUR FREE ACT TEST PREP Websites
The following are all very good sites with lots of FREE TEST PREP You have to
Register & Login, but DO NOT PAY $ for anything !!!
1. ACT Website: actstudent.org
Preparing for the ACT (PDF; 80 pages, 1,075KB)–FREE This free student
preparation booklet is available from your counselor.
Includes test information, complete practice tests with scoring keys, and a writing
prompt with sample essays.
Practice test questions–FREE
Test tips–FREE
Test descriptions–FREE
2. March2Success Website: march2success.com
Login: 7 ACT Practice Tests
7 SAT Practice Tests
ACT/SAT Flashcards
“Zero Hour”
Test Prep Video Game
3. Number2.com Website: number2.com/
Click on: FREE ACT PREP
or: FREE SAT PREP
4. SparkNotes.com website: testprep.sparknotes.com
Click on: Take a practice test FREE
Study from the FREE online ACT Test Prep book
FREE on-line test books: New SAT Book or Power Tactics
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ACT at GHS for SENIORS!!
What?
The American College Test (ACT)
When?
Tuesday, September 30 (B Day)
There will be NO make up day and you MUST be on time
in order to take the test!
What to bring?
-your own calculator
-your own #2 pencils NO mechanical pencils
-your school ID or Driver License
-a full stomach!
-a rested body!
What NOT to bring! -your cell phone or any other electronic device
Where to go?
TBD
Why care?
1. Graduation!!
(State Board Policy 3804)
Once a student fails a SATP test twice:
ACT English – 17 for English II
ACT math – 17 for Algebra I
ACT science – 17 for Biology
ACT reading – 17 for US History
2. Scholarship money
3. College admissions
4. College class placement
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SERIOUS SENIORS
“I don’t know where to begin!!” We cannot tell you how many times we have heard that statement. Senior
year is often the most stressful, fun and adventurous year in high school. We intend to make this year as
smooth as possible. Follow these steps to your future!
STEP ONE – Pick your TOP colleges/universities. Make a list of these schools, with their
location and contact information. Make a list of pros and cons for each school. Make a different folder for
each school.
Use the summer, your two college visit days, and school holidays to make personal visits to these schools.
Call their Office of Admissions to set up an appointment time. It will be a good idea to visit with the
Financial Aid Office and someone from your field of interest (major).
Mississippi’s Public Universities
ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY
Office of Admissions
1000 ASU Drive #330
Lorman, MS 39096
In-state call: 1-800-222-6790 or www.alcorn.edu
Alcorn State University, the oldest predominantly black Land-Grant university in the United States, had its beginning in 1830 as
Oakland College for the education of white male students. The Presbyterian school closed at the beginning of the Civil War. Upon
failing to reopen after the war, the college was sold to the State for the education of her African-American citizens. After Congress
passed the Morrill Land-Grant Act in 1862, the Mississippi Legislature in 1871 used funds generated through the Morrill LandGrant Act to establish Alcorn University for the education of African-American youth, and it became known as Alcorn Agricultural
and Mechanical College in 1878. In 1974, it was renamed Alcorn State University by the Legislature. Alcorn State University is a
co-educational, land-grant, liberal arts, science and teacher education public institution offering programs leading to associate,
baccalaureate, master's, and educational specialist's.
DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY
Office of the Registrar and Admissions
Kethley 109
Cleveland, MS 38733
In-state call: 1-800-468-6378 or www. Deltastate.edu
Delta State University was created as Delta State Teachers College by an act of the state legislature in 1924. The institution opened
for its first regular session on September 15, 1925, with a faculty and staff of 11 members and an enrollment of 97 students. To
match the institution's growth in enrollment and academic offerings, the name was changed to Delta State College in 1955 and to
Delta State University in 1974. Graduate work was first offered in 1965 when the Master of Education degree was approved. After
other master's programs were added, the University began offering the Educational Specialist degree in 1972 and the Doctor of
Education degree in 1981. The University provides a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum, offering 13 baccalaureate degrees in
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38 majors. It also seeks to meet the need for advanced training in certain fields by providing programs of study for nine master's
degrees, the Educational Specialist degree, and the Doctor of Education degree. The Mississippi Delta, a twenty-county,
northwestern region which is rich in various ethnic and cultural groups, provides approximately 80% of the University's enrollment.
JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY
Office of Admissions and Financial Aid
P. O. Box 17330-1325
Jackson, MS 39217
In-state call: 1-800-848-6817 or www.jsums.edu
Founded as Natchez Seminary in 1877 by the American Baptist Home Mission Society to serve the great Mississippi Valley
between Memphis and the Gulf Coast, Jackson State University was established at Natchez, Mississippi. The school opened on
October 23, 1877, with 20 students, and it operated as a private church school for 63 years. In 1882 the Society moved the school to
Jackson. In 1894, the University was moved from its original site in north Jackson to a new tract of land in the southwest section of
the city. The state assumed support of the college in 1940, assigning to it the mission of training teachers. Between 1953 and 1956,
the curriculum was expanded to include a graduate program and bachelor's programs in the arts and sciences. The name was
changed to Jackson State College in 1956 and to Jackson State University in 1974. In 1979, Jackson State was officially designated
the Urban University of the State of Mississippi. As the urban university, emphasis is placed on providing public service programs
designed to enhance the quality of life and to seek solutions to urban problems in the physical, social, intellectual, and economic
environments.
MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
Office of Admissions
P. O. Box 9700
Mississippi State, MS 39762
1-601-325-2224 or www.mssate.edu
The University began as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of the State of Mississippi, one of the national Land-Grant
Colleges established after Congress had passed the Morrill Act in l862. It was created by the Mississippi Legislature on February 28,
l878, to fulfill the mission of offering training in "agriculture, horticulture and the mechanical arts without excluding other scientific
and classical studies, including military tactics." The college received its first students in the fall of l880. In 1887 Congress passed
the Hatch Act, which provided for the establishment of the Agricultural Experiment Station. Two other pieces of federal legislation
provided funds for extending the mission of the College. In l9l4, the Smith-Lever Act called for "instruction in practical agriculture
and home economics to persons not attendant or resident," thus creating the state-wide effort which led to Extension offices in every
county in the State; and, in l9l7, the Smith-Hughes Act provided for the training of teachers in vocational education. In l926 the
College received its first accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. In l932 it was renamed Mississippi
State College. In l958 the Legislature renamed it Mississippi State University.
MISSISSIPPI UNIVERSITY FOR WOMEN
Office of Admissions
P. O. Box W-1613
Columbus, MS 39701
In-state call: 1-877-462-8439 or www.muw.edu
Established in l884, Mississippi University for Women became the first public college for women in America. Originally known as
the Industrial Institute and College, the institution was created by an act of the Mississippi Legislature on March l2, l884, for the
dual purposes of providing a liberal arts education and preparing women for employment. The first session began October 22, l885,
with an enrollment of approximately 250 students on a campus formerly occupied by the Columbus Female Institute, a private
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college founded in l847. The name of the institution changed to Mississippi State College for Women in l920 to reflect an emphasis
on collegiate rather than vocational education. The name changed again in l974 to Mississippi University for Women to reflect better
the nature of the academic programs, including graduate studies. In l982 the United States Supreme Court ordered the university to
admit a male student to the nursing program. Following this historic decision, the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher
Learning ordered the university to change its policies to allow the admission of qualified males into all university programs. In l988
the Board of Trustees reaffirmed the mission of MUW as an institution of quality academic programs for all qualified students with
emphasis on distinctive opportunities for women.
MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
Office of Admissions
P. O. Box 7222
Itta Bena, MS 38941
In-state call: 1-800-844-6885 or www.mvsu.edu
Mississippi Valley State University was created by the Mississippi Legislature as Mississippi Vocational College in 1946. The
expressed purpose of the institution was to train teachers for rural and elementary schools and to provide vocational training. The
first academic session started in the summer of 1950 with an enrollment of 305 in-service teachers. The first full academic year,
1950-51, began with 14 regular students and seven faculty members. Under its original name and purpose, the institution provided a
higher education opportunity for many first-generation college students. In order to reflect the broadening scope and offerings of the
institution, its name was changed to Mississippi Valley State College in 1964. Under this transition, the institution became more
general purpose in nature while retaining its commitment to provide special higher education opportunities. The name of the
institution was changed to Mississippi Valley State University in 1974. Graduate programs were begun in 1976.
UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI
Office of Admissions and Records
University, MS 38677
In-state call: 1-800-653-6477 or olemiss.edu
The University of Mississippi, one of the oldest public institutions of higher education in the South, opened its doors to 80 students
in 1848 and now enrolls more than 17,300 students on four campuses, including the Medical Center in Jackson. Ole Miss is a
classical liberal arts institution that also offers a selection of quality professional programs. The main campus in Oxford, home of the
late Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner, continues to be an incubator for writers and literary scholars. The Center for the
Study of Southern Culture and the William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation are located on the Oxford campus, as are 30
other institutes and research centers. More than $100 million in research is conducted annually on the Oxford and Jackson campuses,
where world-class studies in pharmacy, physical acoustics and cardiovascular disease take place. The 1.2 million-volume library on
the main campus houses the most extensive blues archive in the nation, Faulkner's papers and the national library of the accountancy
profession. Ranked among the nation's top 50 public research universities by the Lombardi Program on Measuring University
Performance, the university emphasizes strong classroom teaching supported by excellent library, laboratory and technical facilities.
Its Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College has been ranked among the top three in the nation.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI
Office of Admissions
P. O. Box 5166
Hattiesburg, MS 39406
1-601-266-5000 or www.usm.edu
Distinguished and proud, The University of Southern Mississippi is a national public university that is engaging and empowering
individuals to transform lives and communities. Our values are to lead with academic excellence, conduct innovative research,
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provide cultural enrichment, conduct economic development, create healthier communities, contribute to global communities and
educate the whole student. Founded in 1910, Southern Miss is the only SREB-Level 1 designated university in the state graduating
the most PhD's in-state. A dual-campus, Southern Miss boasts world-class research and teaching sites along the Mississippi Gulf
Coast; receives more than $102M in research dollars; has signature academic programs including polymer science and engineering,
the Center for Writers, the four art disciplines, nursing and education; and has the sixth oldest Honors College in the nation. With
academic excellence and, in a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force
providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world
Adapted from: www.ihl.state.ms.us
Mississippi Private Universities
Belhaven University
Blue Mountain College
Millsaps College
Mississippi College
Mississippi College School of Law
Rust College
Tougaloo College
Wesley Biblical Seminary
William Carey College
Mississippi Community and Junior Colleges
Coahoma Community College
Copiah-Lincoln Community College - Wesson Campus
East Central Community College
East Mississippi Community College - Golden Triangle
East Mississippi Community College - Scooba Campus
Hinds Community College - Academic/Technical Center
Hinds Community College - Nursing/Allied Health Center
Hinds Community College - Rankin Campus
Hinds Community College - Raymond Campus
Hinds Community College - Utica Campus
Hinds Community College - Vicksburg-Warren County Branch
Holmes Community College - Attala Educational Center
Holmes Community College - Goodman Campus
Holmes Community College - Grenada Campus
Holmes Community College - Ridgeland Campus
Itawamba Community College - Fulton Campus
Itawamba Community College - Tupelo Campus
Jones County Junior College
Meridian Community College
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Mississippi Delta Community College
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Northeast Mississippi Community College
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Pearl River Community College - Hattiesburg
Pearl River Community College - Poplarville
Southwest Mississippi Community College
Mississippi Vocational/Technical Schools
Ace Training Center
Antonelli College
Blue Cliff College
Commercial Driver Institute Inc.
Compusystems Inc.
Crescent School of Gaming and Bartending
DSC Training Academy
Delta Technical College
Elshadi Literacy Center
Gardner Institute Inc.
H&R Block
Healthcare Institute of Jackson Inc.
IMS Technical Center
Mid-Delta Academy
Southeastern Career Training Centers Inc.
Superior Health Care Training Inc.
Systems Consultants Associates Inc.
Truck Driver Institute Inc. of MS
Adapted from: www.msnext.com
**FOR INFORMATION REGARDING OUT OF STATE COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES, PLEASE
REFER TO THAT SCHOOL’S WEBSITE.**
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STEP TWO – Fill out all admission applications and make note of all deadlines.
**Check with your college choice to see if there is a separate application for scholarships and housing.
Also, do not forget about the FAFSA! You cannot begin to fill out the FAFSA until January of your senior
year. There is really no deadline but the sooner you fill it out, the better! (Refer to STEP THREE).
*APPLICATIONS:
There are basically three ways to apply to a college:
 Apply Online
 Apply Using a Paper Application Provided by the College
 Apply Using the Common Application
Institutional Applications (Paper or Electronic)
All colleges and universities have an application form. While many have opted for on-line applications, others
still use a paper format. A large number use The Common Application. Generally, at more selective schools,
more information is requested and supplemental material is required.
The biggest mistake students make with online applications is submitting them without carefully
proofreading AND without asking someone else to proofread them as well. Due diligence in proofing will
pay off in the long run.
The Common Application (Paper or Electronic)
What is it?
The Common Application is a single application for undergraduate college admission, used by a consortium of
colleges and universities. The common application is a standardized undergraduate college application form
that is accepted at over 300 colleges and universities nationwide. To find out more about the Common
Application and which schools accept the common application, go to www.commonapp.org.
How to use it?
Using the paper form (available in the guidance office or by downloading a copy from the Common
Application website), you complete one Common Application, photocopy it, and send it to any of the member
colleges to which you want to apply. Using the electronic version, you may either submit your application via
the internet, or print and mail a hard copy.
Do colleges prefer that I use their own application?
No. All Common Application member colleges and universities also belong to the National Association for
College Admission Counseling (NACAC), which requires that members not discriminate against applicants,
based on the particular form the applicant uses. Several member colleges even use the Common Application
as their own form.
*WHAT DO ADMISSIONS COUNSELORS CONSIDER?
When looking at college applicants, admissions officers consider:
 Courses taken in high school – Students who take challenging courses will be considered better
prepared for college than students who take the easier route through high school.
 Grades – A student’s grade point average and class standing is important to admissions officers.
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




College entrance exam scores – Colleges use your scores to determine your readiness for college
academics and which courses you are prepared to take during your freshman year.
Extracurricular activities – Are you involved in high school activities, and will you be involved on
campus? Students who are involved in campus activities are more likely to remain in college and thrive
on campus.
College essay – Some colleges require essays and use them to judge writing skills and to learn more
about you as an individual.
Interview – If required, it is important for you to present yourself as someone who is bright, articulate,
and interested in being involved in the school. Be honest about yourself and let them see the real you.
Whether the college is the right fit for you – Will you like the lifestyle of the particular campus? Will
you fit in with fellow classmates? Does the campus have activities that match your interests?
When to apply for college:
For the eight public universities in the
state of Mississippi:
Most colleges in the state of Mississippi encourage you to apply for admissions as soon
as possible. You can certainly apply for admission after the scholarship deadline but
you may not be eligible for scholarships and you may not be assigned to your dorm of
choice.
For community colleges in Mississippi:
Most Community Colleges will have a Spring enrollment day, please listen to the GHS
announcements and watch your college’s website. There is really no need to register for
community colleges until after Christmas of your Senior year.
Specific Scholarship Deadlines:
(Based on 2012 information. Make sure you refer to the college’s website
for updated information)
 Mississippi State University - December 1
(don’t forget their on-line resume)
 University of Mississippi – March 1
 University of Southern Mississippi – February 1
 Jackson State University – February 15
 Alcorn State University – TBA
 Delta State University – March 1
 Mississippi Valley State – TBA
 Mississippi University for Women – April 1
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STEP THREE – FINANCIAL AID
The financial aid process can be tedious and stressful. We will do our best to describe in detail
what it all means. Please, even if you feel as if you are not eligible for aid, fill out the FAFSA!
You never know! You will not be eligible for anything if you don’t fill it out. Financial Aid is
not only based on income but amount of college tuition as well.
*Types of Financial Aid:
1. Grants and Scholarships are “free money” that does not need to be repaid. Some are need-based and
some are merit-based.
2. Loans need to be repaid and are borrowed by the student, the parents, or both. Loans may be subsidized
or unsubsidized. Students are required to begin repaying loans six months after graduation.
3. Work Study is money the student is able to earn by working on campus.
*Forms
1. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required by ALL colleges and universities.
st
Apply online at www.fasfa.ed.gov. The FAFSA must be filed after January 1 and before the earliest
financial aid deadline of whatever college you applied to.
2. The CSS (College Scholarship Service) Profile is used by private colleges to distribute institutional
funds. You must register online at www.collegeboard.com/profile. It may be completed before January
st
1 . There is a fee.
3. Institutional Applications are usually part of the admissions packet and ask questions that are
important to the institution but may not be asked elsewhere.
*More about Scholarships :
Many private groups (professional, ethnic, and religious groups that are national and local) offer scholarships. One
resource is searching on the web. Do NOT pay any organization to perform this service.
*Deadlines :
As with the college applications, it is vital that each school’s financial aid deadline be strictly followed. Some
deadlines are as early as February 1. Families should not wait for admissions decisions before applying for
financial aid. Nor should families wait to file taxes or receive W-2’s before completing these important forms.
Parents and students should estimate earnings based on the previous year’s information or their last paychecks of
the year. There will be an opportunity later in the process to report any discrepancies and verify the information
shared.
*What is federal student aid?
Federal student aid is financial assistance that's available through the U.S. Department of Education's Office of
Federal Student Aid if you're enrolled in an eligible program as a regular student at a college participating
in the federal student aid programs.
Federal student aid covers college expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and
transportation. This aid can also help you pay for a computer and dependent child care expenses.
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You also might be able to get financial aid from your state government, your college, or a private scholarship.
Research non-federal aid early (ideally, start in the spring of your junior year of high school). Be sure to meet
all application deadlines!
*How do I apply for federal student aid?
1. Step 1
Get free information and help from your high school counselor, the financial aid office at the college
you plan to attend, or the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Federal Student Aid at
www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov or 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). Free help is available
anytime during the application process. You should never have to pay for help.
2. Step 2
Get a Federal Student Aid PIN. A PIN lets you electronically sign your online Free Application for
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), make corrections to your application information, and more - all online.
Go to www.pin.ed.gov for more information or to apply for a PIN now.
3. Step 3
Collect the documents needed to apply, including income tax returns and W-2 forms (and other records
of income). A full list of what you need is at www.fafsa.ed.gov/before003.htm. Tax return not
completed at the time you apply? Estimate the tax information, apply, and correct the information later.
4. Step 4
Complete the FAFSA between January 1 and June 30 of the following year (no exceptions to either
date!). BUT, apply as soon as possible on or after January 1 to meet college and state aid deadlines.
Apply online (the faster and easier way) by going to www.fafsa.ed.gov.
5. Step 5
Federal Student Aid will send you a Student Aid Report (SAR) - the result of your FAFSA. Review
your SAR, and, if necessary, make changes or corrections and submit your SAR for reprocessing. Your
complete, correct SAR will contain your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) - the number used to
determine your federal student aid eligibility.
6. Step 6
If you are selected for a process called verification, your college's financial aid office may ask you to
submit tax returns and other documents, as appropriate. Be sure to meet the college's deadlines, or your
federal student aid will be delayed.
7. Step 7
Whether you're selected for verification or not, make sure the financial aid office at your college has all
the information needed to determine your eligibility.
8. Step 8
All students: Contact your college's financial aid office if you have any questions about the aid being
offered.
First-time applicants: Review the award information from all of the colleges to which you applied to
compare amounts and types of aid being offered. Decide which college to attend based on a
combination of (a) how well the college suits your needs and (b) its affordability after all aid is taken
into account.
*What do I really need to know about the financial aid process?
PREPARE:
Learn about federal student aid programs and what's available to you. You can use FAFSA4caster to increase
your knowledge of the financial aid process; become familiar with the various types of federal student aid that
are available; and investigate other sources of aid, such as grants and scholarships. You can also find out about
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our programs in detail from one of our publications, Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to
Federal Student Aid. The guide tells you almost everything you need to know about federal student aid, as
well as other means of paying for your education after high school. Take what we say to heart... and then take
it to the next step.
APPLY:
This step is where many deserving students falter, either because they assume they won't qualify or because
the FAFSA may seem complex and difficult to complete. FAFSA4caster provides an opportunity for you to
become familiar with many of the questions that are asked on the FAFSA, and you can use the FAFSA4caster
to practice answering the questions online. When you're ready to file the FAFSA use the online version at
www.fafsa.ed.gov, which streamlines the application process considerably. Remember, it's a good idea to
apply. You may be surprised by the amount of aid for which you qualify.
RECEIVE:
We will inform you and your selected colleges about your EFC. Then they (or your private lender) will tell
you how much - and what sorts of - aid you qualify for. Federal student aid may not cover all college
expenses.
REPAY:
If your aid is in the form of loans, you must repay these loans and become familiar with the repayment
process. Student loans, unlike grants and work-study, are borrowed money that must be repaid, with interest,
just like car loans and mortgages. You cannot have these loans canceled because you didn't like the education
you received, didn't get a job in your field of study, or because you're having financial difficulty. Loans are
legal obligations, so before you take out a student loan, think about the amount you'll have to repay over the
years.
GATHERING FAFSA DOCUMENTS:
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) became available on January 1. It is important to
complete the form and submit as soon as possible, as financial aid is provided on a first-come, first-served
basis. Here are some of the items you will need:
* Your Social Security number and your parents' Social Security numbers if you are a dependent.
* Your driver's license number if you have one.
* Your Alien Registration Number if you are not a United States citizen.
* Federal tax information for you and your parents if you are providing parent information. You will still be
able to submit your FAFSA even if you have not filed your taxes at the time, but you must still provide
income and tax information.
* Records of untaxed income, such as Social Security benefits, welfare benefits and veteran's benefits for you
and your parents.
* Information on savings, investments, and business and farm assets for you and your parents.
Federal Student Aid advises families with unusual circumstances, including job loss, to complete FAFSA on
the Web whenever possible, submit it and then contact the financial aid office of the school you plan to attend.
Also, scholarship and financial aid scams are out there; do not pay a fee for FAFSA completion and filing.
Help completing the FAFSA can generally be found at the school you are planning to attend, a school
counselor or Federal Student Aid.
For FREE help filling out the FAFSA, we recommend contacting The Get to College Center (formally
Education Services Foundation). They are located on Lakeland Drive and their phone number is 601321-5533.
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To get started, visit http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Don't miss out! REMEMBER, IF THE WEBSITE ASKS FOR
YOU TO PAY A FEE IN ORDER TO FILE THE FAFSA, YOU ARE ON THE WRONG SITE!!
*TYPES OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE:
Grants- Nonrepayable awards based on merit or merit plus need. Grants and scholarships generally don't have
to be paid back (sometimes a repayment is required if a student withdraws). They’re considered a gift and are
called gift-aid.
Loans- Educational loans are available through private lending institutions, colleges, and the federal
government. Most educational loans have low interest rates with payments deferred while the student is
enrolled in school. Loan programs are also available to eligible parents to help with college expenses for their
qualifying children. Loans must be repaid.
Work-study programs- Jobs that allow students to earn money toward their expenses while they are enrolled
in school. (Students can sometimes get jobs related to their program of study.)
Sources of financial assistance include the federal government state agencies, professional and service
organizations, private foundations, and individual postsecondary schools. Your school guidance counselor
can help you determine the programs you may be eligible for and how to apply.
*FINANCIAL AID QUESTIONS TO ASK COLLEGES:
Understanding the financial aid process can be hard, and you may not know where to turn for answers. The
financial aid officers at colleges and universities are there to help. Below is a list of questions that the
Associated Colleges of the Midwest suggests families ask:
1. What kind of financial assistance does the college offer: need-based, merit-based or both?
2. Can the college provide an early estimate of what our financial aid award might be?
3. What forms are needed in order to apply?
4. When are financial aid applications due?
5. What costs for a student are taken into account by the financial aid office? Tuition, room, board,
transportation? What about additional expenses such as books, fees, computers and personal expenses?
6. What is included in the comprehensive fee? For example, do students have to pay extra for computer
time or to attend campus events (concerts, plays, films, lectures, athletic events, etc.)?
7. When will we be notified about the amount of assistance we can expect?
8. Does the institution have an appeal process to review special circumstances?
9. Is there a commitment for financial assistance beyond the first year?
10. How and when do we apply for financial assistance after the first year?
11. What if we do not qualify for need-based aid? Are there alternative financing options available?
12. What grants, loans and work-study opportunities does the college offer? Are there any we might be
eligible for?
13. What is the average student loan indebtedness of the college's graduates?
14. Is there a restriction to the length of time that financial assistance will continue?
15. How long does it typically take a student to graduate from this college? Four years? Longer?
16. What impact do scholarships from outside sources have on other financial aid?
17. Can we apply financial aid toward an off-campus study program, either in the U.S. or another country?
18. What happens if our family's financial situation changes substantially during the school year?
19. Are there payment options available, such as monthly or quarterly?
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STUDENT ATHLETES
If you are a student athlete who is interested in continuing your athletic career in college, there are certain
guidelines you should follow. First and foremost, share your aspirations with your coach (high school and/or
A.A.U.). Ask them for an honest evaluation of what level they think you are capable of playing in college (Division
I, II, III). If there are certain schools you are interested in attending, do not hesitate to ask your coach to either call
or send a letter to the coach at that school.
When you receive a letter of interest from a college coach, bring it to the guidance office. You will need to sign a
record release form so that we can forward your transcript. Remember, the first thing a coach needs to know is if
you have the grades and SAT scores to be admitted to his/her college. At this preliminary stage, grades take
priority over athletic ability.
Finally, if you feel that you can participate at the Division I or Division II level, go online at
www.NCAACLEARINGHOUSE.net to find out what core courses, grades, and test scores you need to be eligible
to play as a freshman. At this same website, you may also fill out the NCAA Clearinghouse Student Release Form
and return it to your counselor. This authorizes all high schools you have attended to send your transcripts to the
NCAA Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse is then authorized to send this information to all colleges requesting
your eligibility status. You may apply for certification any time after your junior year.
If you plan to play at the Division III level, you do not need to be certified by the NCAA Clearinghouse as
eligibility is governed by institutional, conference, and other NCAA regulations.
Please see your guidance counselor if you need more information or clarification.
Any student-athlete wishing to participate in college athletics at the NCAA Division I or Division II level
must register with the NCAA Clearinghouse for determination of initial eligibility. Student-athletes should
register with the Clearinghouse at the end of their junior year in high school. The preferred method of
registration is online. Go to: www.ncaaclearinghouse.net, select Prospective Student-Athletes and click on
Domestic Release Form. Complete the SRF form online, and include your credit or debit card information to
pay the fee. Print a copy of your completed registration form and both Copy I and Copy 2 of the transcript
release form. Sign the transcript release forms, and give both to your guidance counselor. CLS will then mail
a copy of your present Transcript of Credit to the Clearinghouse. At the conclusion of your senior year, and
upon graduation, CLS will mail a final copy of your Transcript of Credit to the Clearinghouse.
The NCAA employs a sliding scale of Core GPA and Standardized Test Scores for Division I participation
that the potential athlete MUST meet. This scale is listed on the NCAA Clearinghouse website and in the
current Guide for the College- Bound Athlete booklet. There is no sliding scale for Division II participation.
There is no NCAA Clearinghouse requirement for participation in Division III Intra-Collegiate athletic
competition.
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NCAA Eligibility Registration Worksheet
Please note that there will be changes in place in 2016!
In order to participate in athletics at an NCAA Division I or II institution, you must be certified by the NCAA
Eligibility Center. NCAA Registration is not required for Junior College Athletics.
WHEN DO I REGISTER?
You may begin registering when you complete 6 semesters (complete your junior year.)
You must register and be cleared before you can participate. This also includes participating in
summer practice before your freshman year begins.
HOW DO I REGISTER?
1. Go to www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. Click on “Prospective Student-Athletes” to start the process.
You will need to input your school and personal information and pay the registration fee. You will also
be asked to select a 4 digit PIN (Personal Identification Number.) Write this down because you will
need this and your social security number to access your record. If you have received an ACT fee
waiver, then you are eligible for this fee waiver. You will need to go to your counselor for them to
complete verification of your ACT fee waiver online. Once you register and pay the fee (credit or
debit) two transcript release forms will be generated.
2. Print, sign and bring both transcript release forms to the GHS Counseling Office so that your
transcript can be sent to NCAA with this required form. Transcripts need to be sent twice: once after
you complete at least six semesters of high school, and again after you graduate. They must be sent
directly from the school. **Please note that if you have attended another high school previously,
you will need to have that school send transcripts directly. Courses taken prior to coming to
GHS must be on your previous school’s list of Approved Core Courses.**
3. If you have taken the ACT and did not request that your ACT score be sent to the NCAA Eligibility
Center (code 9999 in section “College and Scholarship Codes”) when you registered, you will need to
contact ACT to have your scores sent directly to NCAA from ACT. If you are planning to take the
ACT again, be sure to have them sent to the NCAA Eligibility Center
4. After April 1 of your senior year, you need to log in to your registration and complete the final steps
of your amateurism questionnaire. Go to www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. Click “Prospective StudentAthletes.” Click “Registered Student Login.” You will be prompted to enter your Social Security
Number (or your Clearinghouse ID that has been assigned to you if you can keep up with it) and PIN.
Once you enter your SS# or Clearinghouse ID and PIN, you will see the welcome page with your
name. Follow the link Enter/Update Amateur Questionnaire. Answer the questions and submit. This
must be submitted online.
I FORGOT MY PIN!
If you have forgotten your PIN, these are the steps to retrieve your PIN.
 Click on “Can’t remember PIN”
 Input the last 4 digits of your social security number, date of birth, first name and last name.
NCAA will send your PIN to your email that you used when you registered.
HOW DO I CHECK MY STATUS?
You will need to log in with your PIN and social security number. Follow the link “Check Your
NCAA Certification Status.”
WHAT MAKES ME ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE?
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Division I
1. 16 courses must be earned from GHS’s list of NCAA approved core courses. This list is viewable
on the NCAA Eligibility Center website or you may check with your counselor. You will need to
present 16 core courses in the following breakdown:
 4 years of English
 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
 2 years of natural/physical science (one must be a lab science)
 1 year of additional English, math or science
 2 years of social studies
 4 years of additional core courses (from any area listed above, or from foreign language,
nondoctrinal religion or philosophy)
HOW CAN I FIND OUT WHICH GERMANTOWN COURSES ARE ON THE APPROVED
CORE COURSE LIST?
 From the NCAA homepage, click “Prospective Student Athletes.”
 From the menu listed on the lift, click “List of Approved Core Courses (Formerly 48H).” Input
Germantown High School’s code, 251749, and enter.
 You can then access the list by subject or by a full listing.
**Please note that if you complete the college preparatory curriculum, you will automatically
satisfy the specific core course requirements. If you are not going to complete the college
preparatory curriculum or if you don’t know whether you are or not, check with your
counselor.
2. There is a GPA/ACT Sum Score (adding the highest subtests) requirement that uses a sliding scale.
This means the higher your GPA, the lower your ACT score can be a vice versa. However, your GPA
cannot be below 2.0. Check with your counselor.
Division II
1. 14 Core courses from MCHS’s list of NCAA approved core courses are required for
Division II.
 3 years of English.
 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher).
 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school).
 2 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science.
 2 years of social science.
 3 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or nondoctrinal
religion/philosophy.)
2. GPA/ACT requirements
There is no sliding scale. The minimum core grade-point average is 2.000. The minimum ACT sum
score is 68.
Check Sheet:
_________ Completed Online Registration Form and fee paid online or by mail.
__________Submitted 2 signed Transcript Release Forms to the Counselor’s Office
__________Requested ACT to send Scores to NCAA
__________Completed Amateur Questionnaire after April 1
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GHS SENIOR POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
We realize you will have numerous questions throughout your senior year. Your counselors do their very best
to keep you up to date on what you should be doing throughout the school year. Listed below is information
we feel like you need to know regarding policies and procedures at Germantown High School.
*TEACHER/COUNSELOR RECOMMENDATIONS :
Like the essay, teacher or counselor recommendations are another important part of the college application. When
so many qualified students are competing for relatively few slots, the admissions office needs more than grades and
test records to help them make their decisions. With this in mind, follow these guidelines when requesting teacher
recommendations.
1. Request recommendations as soon as possible. September is not too early. Remember, teachers
receive many requests and if you wait too long, the quality of your recommendation could suffer.
2. Ask for recommendations from a teacher you have had in previous years. A teacher who has had you
for only a month or two this fall does not have enough information to accurately evaluate you.
3. If you know what you are going to major in, try to match the recommendation with the appropriate
subject teacher, e.g. Engineering-math teacher, pre-med-science teacher, communications-English
teacher.
4. Most importantly, ask teachers who know you well and in whose class you have been successful. Did
you have an impact on the intellectual life of the class and did you contribute in terms of effort,
interest, responsibility and reliability?
5. Typically you will only need a recommendation from your guidance counselor and 1 or 2 teachers.
Please limit your requests to a maximum of 2 classroom teachers.
6. Please, please DO NOT wait until the last minute to ask for a letter of recommendation. Allow at
least one week for your recommender to complete your letter.
7. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope for your recommender.
8. If your recommender returns the recommendation letter to you, please do not open the envelope if it
is sealed.
*GHS COLLEGE VISIT DAYS;
Students who are classified as seniors will be permitted two excused college days during their senior year.
These visits should be used during the months of September through April. Students are encouraged to call
the Office of Admissions of the college/university, in which they plan to visit, and set up an appointment time.
Once a date is obtained, students should submit a request in writing one week prior to the scheduled visit (see
sample form below). Forms can be picked up from the Counselor’s Office. In order for the absence to be
excused, the student must present a signed college visitation form upon his return to school. Visitation forms
are generally available on all college campuses. This visitation form must be on the college’s letterhead and
include the student’s name and date of attendance signed by a school official. A college day absence will not
count against exam exemption.
The College Visit Day policy is as stated:
1. As stated in the Madison County Schools High School Handbook, “students who are classified as
seniors will be permitted two excused college days during their senior year. Students wishing to make
a college visit should submit a request in writing one week prior to the scheduled visit”. GHS seniors
need to pick up a college visitation form from the Counselor’s Office; have a parent fill it out and sign
it; and return it to his/her counselor according to the above time frame. The counselor will keep the
original college visitation form on file, place the official school seal on a copy and return it to the
student.
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2.
3.
4.
5.
The student will then be responsible for showing this teacher the copy of the college visitation form.
This will allow for missed work to be made up before they leave.
While the student in on campus visiting, it is his responsibility to acquire a note on official college
letterhead that states that he/she actually did attend. This note must be brought to the counselor. The
counselor will keep the official letter from the college, place the school seal on a copy and return it to
the student.
The student will be responsible for showing it to each of his/her teachers and the attendance desk. At
this point, the teacher will note that this absence will be excused and does not count toward the
student’s exemption. If a question occurs, then the teacher can check with the student’s counselor.
The thought behind this procedure is to verify the visitation.
If a student’s counselor is not available when he/she brings the pre-visitation form or the postvisitation letter to the GHS Counseling Office, then the student should give it to the GHS Counseling
Office Receptionist. When the counselor returns, she will send a school-sealed copy of the previsitation form or post-visitation letter to the student. Then, students should refer to procedures#1-4.
SAMPLE
SENIOR COLLEGE VISITATION FORM
Student name:__________________________________________________
College that will be visited:_______________________________________
Date of visit:___________________________________________________
As the parent or guardian of the child listed above, I give my child permission to attend the listed college on the above
date. I understand that he/she must return this form to his/her counselor a week in advance and then show each of
his/her teachers a copy that was sealed by the counselor. I also realize my child is responsible for acquiring a note on
official college letterhead stating that he actually did visit the college. Furthermore, I am aware that my child must bring
this note to his/her counselor and then show a counselor-sealed copy to the attendance desk and his/her teachers.
Finally, I understand that all of the above procedures must be followed in order for this college visit to be excused so it
will not count toward my child’s exemption status.
______________________________
Parent or Guardian signature
______________________________
Date
______________________________
Phone number
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*SCHOLARSHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Germantown is often notified of various scholarship opportunities. There are several ways in which we
distribute this information to you:
 Scholarships are listed on the GHS Counselor website for the duration of the scholarship.
 Scholarships are listed in the Senior monthly newsletters. Newsletters are also posted on our website
(www.ghsmavs.com)
 The GHS Counseling Office can text you directly with all scholarship opportunities. Simply text
@b3d9b6 to 620-277-3839.
 Scholarships will be announced to the seniors through visits from the counselors either during English
class or special Mav Breaks.
*SCHOLARSHIP SEARCHES:
Not only do we recommend keeping up with scholarships through the Counselor’s Office, but there are a few
other ways to find scholarships.
 The internet is a wonderful tool for scholarship searches. Again, beware of anyone asking for a fee.
 Ask your individual college/university. Be sure you understand what is expected of you to be eligible
for scholarships from that school. A meeting with their Office of Admissions or Financial Aid Office
can be very beneficial.
WHERE DO YOU FIND SCHOLASHIPS?:
Scholarships basically come from three areas:
 Scholarships may be found via your college or university. Make sure to meet with the Office of
Admissions for general scholarships and also meet with your department for Departmental
Scholarships.
 Private agencies. There will be lots of scholarships that come across the counselor’s desk and we will
announce those (i.e. GHS PTO, Junior Auxiliary, Target, Best Buy, etc.)
 Money from the government. To be eligible, you must fill out the FAFSA after January of your senior
year.
*GPA AND CLASS RANK DISTRIBUTION:
Due to the magnitude of our student data base, Germantown can only calculate and distribute GPA and Class
Rank to Seniors. Seniors should expect to receive their six semester GPA and Class Rank in September and
their seven semester GPA and Class Rank in January. They will receive their final eight semester GPA and
class rank at graduation practice, which will be held the day before their graduation ceremony.
Please remember: Most academic scholarships are based on GPA and ACT score. Colleges often do not base
their academic scholarships on our cumulative GPA that is distributed to the students. The colleges base their
scholarships on their core GPA. Each school’s core GPA is different. We recommend that you contact your
college of choice to determine what they consider core classes.
*TRANSCRIPTS:
A transcript is a permanent record of your academic career. It includes class taken, grades received, and
academic test results. Basically, all you have to do is fill out a Transcript Request form in the Counselor’s
Office . Request cannot be phoned in, e-mailed or faxed. All colleges must have a copy of your transcript in
order to be accepted. A transcript is unofficial unless sent directly from GHS Counselor’s Office. Once a
transcript request is submitted, transcripts are mailed within two days.
*FINAL TRANSCRIPTS:
Typically, at Senior Awards Day practice seniors are asked to fill out their Final Transcript Request Form.
This will tell our registrar where to send their transcript if attending Summer School after graduation and
where to send the transcript for Fall college admissions.
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*PRE-COLLEGE CREDIT:
There are several ways for a student to receive college credit for classes taken while still in high school.



Dual enrollment – Holmes Community College/GHS
Advanced Placement courses – at Germantown High
CLEP program – www. collegeboard.com/clep
-Dual Enrollment
Beginning in August of 2000, Madison County School District and Holmes Community College implemented
a School Day Dual Enrollment Program for advanced high school seniors. The School Day Dual Enrollment
Program allows seniors the opportunity to take college classes within the time frame allocated for the regular
high school day. The following paragraphs should provide additional information about this program and the
requirements for participation.
1. The student must have earned a minimum ACT Composite Score of 20 and an overall average of 85.0
or higher.
2. The student must have earned a minimum of 20 credits and be classified as a senior.
3. The student must have passed a minimum of 5 credits (can include summer school) from courses taken
in the preceding school year.
4. The student must not have any disciplinary infractions resulting in expulsion or placement at the
Madison County Alternative School during the preceding school year.
5. The student will be expected to financially handle all tuition and fees from Holmes Community
College. And the student must be able to furnish their own transportation to Holmes Community
College.
Beginning the 2013-14 school year, we had enough interest to offer the dual enrollment/dual credit program
here on the GHS campus. Upon completion of the class, these students earn dual credit for high school and
college credit classes. They receive college credit in English Composition I and II and high school credit for
Creative Writing and English IV while meeting graduation requirements. Students taking College Algebra
will receive a College Algebra and a high school Advanced Algebra credit.
-Advanced Placement Classes
Benefits of taking AP Exams:
• Earn college credit and advanced placement—Strong performance on AP Exams is rewarded by colleges and
universities worldwide that grant students credit, placement, or both on the basis of successful AP Exam
grades. By entering college with AP credits you will have the time to move into upper level courses in your
field of interest, pursue a double major, or study or travel abroad.
• Earn AP Scholar Awards—Each September, the College Board recognizes high school students who have
demonstrated exemplary college-level achievement with AP Scholar Awards. While there is no monetary
award from the College Board, AP Scholar Awards further strengthen your college admissions portfolio. For
information about award criteria, go to www.collegeboard.com/student/apscholar.
• Learn what professors look for—AP Exam questions are written and scored by college faculty, so, by taking
AP Exams, you’ll learn what to expect in a college-level exam.
• Success in AP leads to success in college—Performing well on an AP Exam means more than just the
successful completion of a course; it is the gateway to success in college. Research consistently shows that
students who are successful in AP typically experience greater academic success in college than similar
students who did not participate in AP.
-CLEP Program
The College-Level Examination Program® (CLEP) gives you the opportunity to receive college credit for
what you already know by earning qualifying scores on any of 34 examinations. Earn credit for knowledge
you've acquired through independent study, prior course work, on-the-job training, professional development,
cultural pursuits, or internships.
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How CLEP Helps You:
Save time. Depending on your college's CLEP policy, a satisfactory score on a CLEP exam can earn you
from 3 to 12 college credits.
 Save money. The cost of a CLEP exam is about $70, a fraction of the tuition and fees for the corresponding
course.
 Make college more interesting. Skip general introductory courses and move on to more advanced classes, or
explore new and challenging academic areas.
 Graduate on time. CLEP can help you to the finish line if you're a few credits shy of graduation
 Satisfy a proficiency requirement. Demonstrate your ability in college math or a foreign language.
How to Get Started
1. Find out if your college accepts CLEP. Use the CLEP college search and talk to your admissions office,
test center, or academic advisor.
2. Read descriptions of all 34 exams and decide which to take.
3. Register to take your exam(s) by contacting a CLEP test center and making an appointment.
4. Start studying. Get a college textbook and review sample questions.
5. Take your test!

*FREE MONEY FROM THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

*HELP: must have a 2.5 with a family income of $36.500 or less. You must be a resident of
Mississippi with plans to attend an eligible Mississippi institution and demonstrates need as
determined by the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
 *LEAP: must be a Mississippi resident, demonstrates need as determined by the results of the Free
Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA),and must be enrolled as a regular full-time student at a
Mississippi college or university
 *MTAG: scholarship money from the state of Mississippi if you are staying in the state for college.
This is FREE money if you have a 2.5 GPA and a 15 on the ACT. Be sure you apply for this one!!
 *Eminent Scholars: worth more money than the MTAG, must have a 29 on the ACT and a 3.5 GPA
*more information regarding these scholarships can be found at: www.ihl.state.ms.us
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SAMPLE RESUME
Student’s Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Telephone numbers
Email addresses
(Please make sure email addresses are appropriate. Ex: hotchic1@gmail.com is NOT appropriate)
Personal Information
Date of Birth
High School
High School Address
Grade Point Average
Class Rank
ACT Score
Graduation Date
Class Size
Parents Name (mother and father)
Academic Honors and Awards
Honor Roll
Certificates
Medals
Church Services Awards
Community Service Awards
Science Fair and Projects
Extracurricular and Co-curricular Activities
Sports
Clubs
Organizations
Performing Arts (choir, band, etc.)
Scouting Program
*Note any leadership positions held.
Churches and Community Services Activities
Member of “Church” (name the church and how long a member)
Youth Usher Board
Youth Church Organization
Employment Experience
Work done with parents, relatives, friends of the family (lawn work, housekeeping, etc.)
Work done with businesses (usually paid work but could be volunteer)
Volunteer work (usually not paid work)
(*Include description of your duties and responsibilities for each position held)
References:
Available upon request
OR
Give three people’s names, addresses, telephone numbers and email address that will write recommendations for the
student.
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Senior Year Information in Review
Copies of scholarships: Copies of all current scholarships may be picked up in the Counselor’s office at any
time.
Resume:
You should already have developed a resume for yourself. If you have not, please see your
counselor immediately for a sample so that you can get started. Be sure to update it frequently.
College Visits: All Seniors will be allowed two college visits per year. A copy of the “College Visitation
Policy” can be picked up in the Counselor’s office. You must turn in your request for a college visit to your
counselor, seven days prior to your visit.
ACT: Be sure you have taken the ACT by now. The more times you take it, the better! There will be various
ACT workshops throughout the year. These will all be on the announcements and will also be posted on
ghsmavs.com.
Counselors: Be sure to utilize your counselor! They have a wealth of information and will be glad to help
you in any way! The GHS Counseling Office has an “Open Door” policy and is always there for you.
Senior Newletters:
You will receive a copy of the Senior Newsletter the first of every month. The
newsletters contain extremely important information for you. PLEASE pay close attention to them! If you
do not receive a copy, stop by the Counselor’s office and pick up another copy.
Letters of Recommendation:
Many colleges and scholarships will require a letter of recommendation.
Be sure to ask someone who will be able to write a sincere recommendation for you. Be sure to give them the
information in a timely manner; you don’t want them rushed! Be polite and give them a stamped, addressed
envelope for them to return the recommendation in. Also, it is very helpful for you to include a copy of your
resume for those writing a recommendation for you. It may be helpful if you ask for several copies so that you
do not have to return to ask for more!
College Essays:
Some colleges will ask you to write an essay for admissions. Begin working on this
now. It should be about a life-changing/unique experience. However it needs to be broad enough that it can
be sent to every college or can be used for scholarships. One essay on a “significant experience” can also be
“the biggest event”, “a life changing event”, “tragic event” or a “pick a topic” essay. After you have written
your essay, have your favorite English teacher review it.
Transcripts: The role of thumb is to be sure you have applied to the college/university before you send a
transcript!! After you have applied, come by the GHS Counseling Office and fill out a form with our secretary
to have your transcript sent! If you need your GPA added, please let us know. It is not our policy to add
GPA’s until you have graduated.
Scholarships: Any scholarship information that is sent to Germantown will be placed on the announcements,
which will then be placed on our web site (ghsmavs.com), they will be listed in the monthly newsletter, and
via text messages. There is a “Scholarship Filing Cabinet” in the Counselor’s Office for all scholarship
copies.
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There are lots of scholarships out there…….you just have to find them. Consider this your “job” for
your Senior year. You will appreciate it later. There are many web sites out there to assist you. If you need
assistance, see your counselor.
Financial Aid:
One of the biggest concerns of college that is always looming on the horizon is the cost!
However, there are several options in the area of financial aid. The four major classifications are:
 Grants:
money from governmental agencies based on need that you do not have to pay
back.
 Scholarships: money usually merit-based or need-based and available from many sources.
 Work-Study: money earned from work used to pay for college
 Loans: money borrowed from financial agencies that must be repaid (with interest)
*The Federal Financial Aid Form (FAFSA) will not be available until January, on-line (www.FAFSA.ed.gov).
A copy of the FAFSA must be filled out before you will be eligible for any type of financial aid, including the
following federal sponsored aid:
 Pell Grant: money that does not have to be paid back
 Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): money that is not
repaid, is awarded to students with exceptional financial need
 Federal Work Study Program: provides part-time jobs to students to help them pay for their
education
 Federal Perkins Loan: is a low interest loan for students with exceptional financial need
 Federal Family Education Loans, Direct Loans, Stafford Loans, & PLUS Loans: are
loans that can be used for educational expenses
 *HELP: must have a 2.5 with a family income of $36.500 or less. You must be a resident of
Mississippi with plans to attend an eligible Mississippi institution and demonstrates need as
determined by the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
 *LEAP: must be a Mississippi resident, demonstrates need as determined by the results of the
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA),and must be enrolled as a regular full-time
student at a Mississippi college or university
 *MTAG: scholarship money from the state of Mississippi if you are staying in the state for
college. This is FREE money if you have a 2.5 GPA and a 15 on the ACT. Be sure you apply
for this one!!
 *Eminent Scholars: worth more money than the MTAG, must have a 29 on the ACT and a
3.5 GPA
*more information regarding these scholarships can be found at: www.ihl.state.ms.us
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Sign up today for text
messages from the GHS
Counselor’s office!
The Counselors will send you all the announcements
and reminders for each grade level.
Seniors: send @b3d9b6 to 620-277-3839
Juniors: send @f1d987 to 620-277-3839
Sophomores: send @8090ee to 620-277-3839
Freshman: send @8cbb1 to 620-277-3839
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All Juniors and Seniors are asked to attend the
Germantown High School
College Fair
on Tuesday, September 16 in the
GHS Gym beginning at 9:30am.
Colleges from around the area will be on hand to answer your questions about their
school, college in general, and the application/scholarship process.
ALL Juniors will attend from 9:30-10:15 and ALL Seniors will attend from 10:1511:00. Students are highly encouraged to use this time wisely. Students not utilizing
this time will be sent back to class.
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