What do colleges look for?

Schools look for different things, but here are some common themes:

Appropriately challenging high school curriculum.

Grades that demonstrate an upward trend.

SAT, ACT, AP, SAT II test scores.

Passion and commitment to something. 

Strong essays that reveals the student. 

Recommenders who really know the student.

Genuine interest in the school.

What colleges should I apply to?

That depends on what the student wants and needs. Our advisors work with students and families to create a school recommendation list based on the individual student's interests.  We want our students to be happy and succeed in college.

How many colleges should I apply to?

We recommend 8-10 schools, from which students can apply. The recommendation list includes safety schools, in-range schools, and reach schools.  Advisors spend many hours researching and reaching out to contacts about school specific information.  The recommendation list is personalized for the student.

When should I start my applications?

Sophomore year: Start thinking about schools and the PSATs in junior year.  The PSAT scores make students eligible for the National Merit Scholars Program, which some colleges look at to award scholarships.
Junior year: Study for the SAT or ACT. Most schools greatly factor in test scores. Most students take it at least two times.
Junior year summer: Begin work on the college applications. You want to enjoy your senior year!
Senior year: Complete college applications. Visit schools. Enjoy your senior year.

How should I organize the process?

You can create a personalized timeline and checklist.  Our advisors work with families to create a personalized timelines and checklist that includes standardized test dates; completion dates for application essays, recommendation letter request, and other application pieces; college submission deadlines; school visits; and more.

What is the Common Application?

The Common Application is an application that more than 400 colleges use.  Many colleges also request school-specific information in addition to the Common Application.  Double-check the information for the schools you are interested in.

What should I include with my application?

Include what the admissions application asks for. Add additional materials only if it significantly enhances the admissions application package.

Should I apply if the schools is too expensive?

If the school is a good fit, then go ahead and apply.  You do not know what financial aid package the school will offer until after acceptance.  If you prepare ahead of time, your chances for academic scholarships and need-based scholarships are greater.  Transcend Academy also work with families to fill out the FAFSA form correctly, which helps maxiize your need-based grants!  Our FAFSA help is a free service.

Do colleges care about senior year grades?

More and more schools are offering contigent admissions offer based on whether students do well in particular classes. Schools may also ask for senior year transcripts.

Why should I work with Transcend?

In addition to our tremendous results so far -- most students received admission into their top school; all students received admission into 1 of their top 3 schools -- the application process encourages self-discovery; instills confidence; and fosters ownership, as our advisors guide students through a process that they own and lead.  

What if I have more questions?

Contact us for more information. We will help you find the answers you need.

end faq