Description of tip for starting the college search:
Many students begin to receive unsolicited college material at the end of their sophomore year of high school. While it is fun to get mail, the volume can quickly become overwhelming. Developing a screening and filing system to manage college material is essential.

An easy technique involves purchasing a portable file box and filing school literature alphabetically or geographically (choose a system that works for you). Literature from schools in which your student has no interest and duplicate information should be discarded immediately. Check with your high school guidance office or public library to see if they are interested in the material you are discarding. Scan the files periodically and remove duplicate or outdated information.

You should also set up files containing:

SAT/ACT/AP test information and scores

Honors and achievements

Report cards and transcript or list of courses taken

Records of participation in extra-curricular activities and sports

Dates and types of community service

Reference material on the admissions process

This information is needed for college tours and interviews as well as when you are preparing your applications. It will also be of use when submitting applications for financial aid. You will save time and minimize your own stress if all of this information is kept up-to-date and easily accessible.

Other comments or suggestions:
Many students begin to receive unsolicited college material at the end of their sophomore year of high school. While it is fun to get mail, the volume can quickly become overwhelming. Developing a screening and filing system to manage college material is essential.

An easy technique involves purchasing a portable file box and filing school literature alphabetically or geographically (choose a system that works for you). Literature from schools in which your student has no interest and duplicate information should be discarded immediately. Check with your high school guidance office or public library to see if they are interested in the material you are discarding. Scan the files periodically and remove duplicate or outdated information.

You should also set up files containing:

SAT/ACT/AP test information and scores

Honors and achievements

Report cards and transcript or list of courses taken

Records of participation in extra-curricular activities and sports

Dates and types of community service

Reference material on the admissions process

This information is needed for college tours and interviews as well as when you are preparing your applications. It will also be of use when submitting applications for financial aid. You will save time and minimize your own stress if all of this information is kept up-to-date and easily accessible.