College FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
Which exams does the University of California System require?
SAT/ACT (currently not required due to Covid 19- subject to change)
What exams do Cal States require?
SAT/ACT (currently not required due to Covid 19- subject to change)
By when do universities want me to take these exams?
No later than December of 2021
What does it cost to take the SAT or ACT exams?
- SAT $60
- ACT Plus Writing fee is $48
- ACT (no Writing) is $33
How can I qualify for a fee waiver?
- 12th grade students on the lunch program for the fall semester
- 11th grade students on the lunch program for the spring semester
The Different types of Colleges
California Community College
- Must be 18 years or older (concurrent enrollment available for high school)
- No SAT's or ACT's required
- If eligible, apply for "Honors Program"/ AP scores are accepted
California State University- "Cal States"
- Submit application between October 1- December 15
- Must complete A-G requirements/ College Prep Courses
- Performance on standardized tests (SAT or ACT)
- Minimum score based on Eligibility Index for students with a 2.99 GPA or lower. GPA's below a 2.0 do not qualify for regular admission
- No letters of recommendation required
- Apply online at www.csumentor.edu/
University of California- "UC's"
- Application period opens October 1
- Submit application between November 1- 30
- UC approved A-G courses (3.0 GPA or higher ONLY)
- Performance on standardized tests: SAT or ACT plus Writing, SAT Subject Tests (must
- be in 2 different areas)
- Quality, quantity and level of coursework throughout your entire high school program
- Participation in activities that develop talents, leadership and unique abilities
- Personal Statement required
- No letters of recommendation required
Private Colleges
- Check with each school's website to view requirements
- Over 300 colleges accept the Common Application.
- Independent California Colleges.
- Up to four college application fee waivers are available to students in the free lunch program
How can I request a letter of recommendation from my teacher/ counselor for private colleges?
Students must submit a "Brag Sheet" to your teacher/ counselor. You can obtain a Brag Sheet from the College Office
What forms do I need to apply for Financial Aid?
- FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), click here.
- Request a PIN for you and one of your parents
- CAL Grant GPA Verification Form are based on GPA's above 2.0
- CAL Grant GPA Verification form must be signed by Ms. Lopez
- CSS Profile is a financial aid form that some private colleges require, click here.
When are my financial aid applications due?
- October 1, 2017- March 2, 2020 for FAFSA and CAL Grants
- Check with individual colleges for the CSS Profile deadline