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Quick Links
SUHSD College Events Calendar
Graduation Requirements
Am I on Track to Graduate
High School and Middle School Timelines
GPA Calculations
College Search Tools
Types of Colleges and Universities
California State University
Early Assessment Program (EAP)
Educational Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS)
University of California
UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
Private Colleges and Universities
The Common Application
Letters of Recommendation and Brag Sheet
Community Colleges
Dual and Concurrent Enrollment
NCAA/NAIA/NJCAA Eligibility
Summer Programs
College Access Programs
Career Exploration
 
 
HOME PAGE
 
Welcome
Welcome students and parents. The Salinas Union High School District (SUHSD) has created this college and university page to assist you with the college going process. You will find resources on matriculation into 4-year and 2-year colleges and universities, career exploration and vocational programs. It is the goal of the Salinas UHSD to ensure that students graduate from the district both college and career ready. This information is in addition to the information you will receive at your high school. The high school counselor is the best person to inform and assist you in achieving your postsecondary goals. Please schedule an appointment with your counselor to discuss your postsecondary plans.
 
The Salinas UHSD provides a comprehensive college guidance program for all families enrolled at any one of our five high schools and four middle schools. Students and parents engage in college guidance activities starting in the 7th grade and begin working more closely with their School Counselor, College Counselor and the Career/Vocational Counselor in the 11th grade to make well-informed plans for the students' post high school years.
 
This page, as well as the Scholarships and Financial Aid page are designed to help answer any questions you may have related to college admissions requirements, financial aid or scholarships for college. Check these pages regularly for updates about colleges, universities, scholarship opportunities, and other college related announcements. Use the tabs on the left to navigate between pages. Please do not hesitate to contact your counselor if you have any questions. Pay close attention to the hyperlinks because they will take you directly to the webpages that will have additional information on the topic.
 
What do we mean by "College-Ready?" College today means much more than just pursuing a four-year degree at a university. Being "college-ready" means being prepared for any postsecondary education or training experience, including study at two- and four-year institutions leading to a postsecondary credential (i.e. a certificate, license, Associates or Bachelor's degree). Being ready for college means that a high school graduate has the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for and succeed in entry-level, credit-bearing college courses without the need for remedial coursework.
 
What do we mean by "Career-Ready?" In today's economy, a "career" is not just a job. A career provides a family-sustaining wage and pathways to advancement and requires postsecondary training or education. A job may be obtained with only a high school diploma, but offers no guarantee of advancement or mobility. Being ready for a career means that a high school graduate has the knowledge and skills needed to qualify for and succeed in the postsecondary job training and/or education necessary for their chosen career (i.e. community college, technical/vocational program, apprenticeship or significant on-the-job training).
 
Quick Links
 
College/University and Financial Aid Applications
  • University of California 
  • California State University 
  • Create a Federal Student ID (FSAID)
  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and completing instructions
  • CA DREAM Act
  • CSS Profile
  • Private Colleges: The Common Application (common app) allows students to complete one admission application that may be submitted to any of over 900 participating colleges and universities. Private universities and out of state colleges may have different application deadlines and testing requirements.
  • ACT – offers information on registering and taking the ACT test. They also offer a Question Bank with thousands of real test questions for you to practice and can also download them as PDF.
  • SAT College Board – offers information on planning for college, comparing schools, and registering and preparing for the SAT and AP tests.
  • Khan Academy – offers FREE full-length SAT practice exams and helpful assistance in many school subjects.
  • Fee Waivers – Fee waivers are available for university applications, SAT and ACT Ask your counselor for the number of fee waivers you are eligible for. Most fee waivers are part of the application and will be awarded to you automatically by the college, university, or testing service.
  • California Community Colleges (CCC)
  • Hartnell College
  • Monterey Peninsula College (MPC)
  • Salinas Valley Promise (formerly BOGG) – covers community college tuition for California residents regardless of family income for two years.
 
Videos
 
For more information on the application process and instructions to complete the applications watch videos below. Additional videos are listed on the right side of video. Scroll down to see other related videos.
College Planning Resources and Websites
 
College Visits and Tours
College Confidential – Insights and reviews on colleges from the voice of college students
eCampusTours – offers virtual tours of over 1,300 college campuses.
 
Preparing for and Finding a College or University
Collegexpress – Tailor your college search by categories such as “colleges with excellent nursing programs.”
Big Future College Board – offers information on planning for college, comparing schools, and registering and preparing for the SAT and AP tests.
 
I’m First – college search tool featuring success stories, colleges, and tips geared towards first-generation students.
 
College Navigator – A comprehensive database of colleges provided by the U.S. Department of Education, which allows you to do side-by-side comparisons of schools.  Your search criteria can include specific states, distance from a specified zip code, type of degree offered, public or private institution, and major(s).
 
NICHE – Connects students and families with colleges, universities and scholarship resources.
 
Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE)
This website allows you to research school on the west coast based on your grades and test scores but also allows you to check if you qualify for reduced tuition rate outside of your home state!
 
College resource site by the CollegeBoard to assist student find the right college and scholarship opportunities.
 
Gives up to date data on colleges and scholarships
 
Information on the many California Colleges, Universities, and vocational programs that you can search or browse by county.
 
A college and scholarship resource site to assist students and families find the right college. College Greenlight assists underrepresented with their college exploration and features US Colleges and universities that meet 100% of demonstrated need for undocumented and DACA students. Sign up is required to access resources.
 
COLLEGE MAJORS 101 - Discover college majors, jobs and college options
 
Personal Statements
John Hopkins Essays that Worked – review exemplary personal statements submitted by applicants
 
High School Athletes
NCAA Eligibility Center – Registering is a requirement for any student who plans to play NCAA division I or II sports.
 
 
For additional information on financial aid, scholarships, and grants please visit the
 
 
 
Career Exploration
California Career Zone – Explore career pathways, colleges, personal strengths, and interests with this online tool.
O*Net - Detailed descriptions of the world of work for use by job seekers, workforce development and HR professionals, students, researchers, and more!
 
 
 
 
 
College Events Calendar
College and Financial Aid Events 2021-2022
 
College Application Season is Here!  School Counselors will be hosting College Application Workshops throughout September, October and November. Each high school will be hosting workshops to assist students and parents complete and submit university applications. High school links to their counseling page are listed below that show the workshop calendar dates and will be updated weekly if additional workshops are added. By attending the workshops students will get hands-on support with CSU, UC, and Common Application.
 
Alisal High School
El Puente High School
  • Alvarez High School
Mount Toro High School
North Salinas High School
Salinas High School
Rancho San Juan High School
 
 
 
 
Graduation Requirements
Students who meet the graduation requirements and pass all academic courses with at least a “C” will also meet the “A-G” requirements for university admission. Any grade lower than a “C” can disqualify them from 4-year college eligibility. If a student receives a grade lower than a “C” in an academic course, it is highly recommended that the student retake the class to earn a higher grade. If a student retakes a science course (Biology, Chemistry, or any course with lab), the course MUST have a wet lab.

The Salinas UHSD graduation requirements include California Department of Education graduation standards and CSU minimum admission eligibility requirements.
Subject
 
Requirements
A. History/Social Science
20 Credits
1 year World History
1 year U.S. History
B. English
40 Credits
4 years
C. Mathematics
30 Credits
3 years
D. Lab Science
20 Credits
1 year Biological Science (Bio, Physiology)
1 year Physical Science (Chem, Physics)
E. Language Other Than English
20 Credits
2 years (Must be the same language)
F. Visual & Performing Arts
10 Credits
1 year (Same course in sequence)
G. Principles Of American Democracy (Government)
5 Credits
1 semester
G. Economics
5 Credits
1 semester
G. College Prep Electives
10 Credits
1 year
Additional Requirements
 
 
Physical Education
20 Credits
2 years
Health
5 Credits
1 semester
Electives
35 Credits
 
Total Numerical Credits*
220 (Total)
 
Non-Course Requirements
 
 
Career Pathway
 
--
Service Learning
 
--
 
Files:
  • 29 Salinas UHSD Student Handbook (PDF)
 
 
      Am I on Track to Graduate?

You will be meeting with your counselor to complete an Individual Graduation Plan.

Click 16. HERE for a blank copy.  Use this form to keep track of your progress.  Remember CSU's and UC's require a C or better in all A-G courses.
(Need access to professional ADOBE to update PDFs)

 
 
 
 
High School and Middle School Timelines
This is a month-by-month breakdown of what students should be doing every month during middle and high school to prepare for college.
 
SENIOR TIMELINE
 
 
August-September
  • Meet with your academic counselor to review your A-G requirements and grad check
  • Ask for a copy of your transcript and check to make sure grades are correct. You will need it when you apply to universities
  • Turn in your meal application to qualify for fee waivers
  • Register at fastweb.comCollegeBoardSallie Mae, and other websites to receive scholarship notifications. See the financial aid page on the SUHSD Website
  • Register for October or December ACT. It is recommended that you register for the December administration of the test.
  • Register for November or December SAT. It is recommended that you register for the December administration of the test.
  • Meet with your academic counselor to check credits, GPA, and college eligibility
  • Retake classes where a “D” or “F” was earned (online credit recovery, community college for certain classes). Any science course will need to have a “wet” lab to count as an “A-G” course
  • Attend college visits when representatives are on campus
  • Make a list of schools that you will apply for admissions and gather information about each campus. Two sources you can use are Niche or CollegeBoard’s Big Future.
  • Work on and finish the Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) for the UCs and any other required college essays
  • Complete your 6. Brag Sheet for letters of recommendation. Include any personal challenges that you overcame and how they were overcome
  • Begin asking teachers and counselors for letters of recommendation for universities (give at least 3 week notice for letters)
  • Begin searching for scholarships. Many scholarship applications are available beginning in September (see the SUHSD scholarship page)
 
October
  • The California State University (CSU) application window opens October 1.
  • FAFSA and DREAM Act application windows opens October 1
  • You and one of your parent/guardian need to create a federal student aid ID (FSAID) to electronically sign the FAFSA and DREAM applications
  • Continue searching for scholarships (see SUHSD scholarship page)
  • Finish & submit the personal insight questions for UCs & any other required college essays to teachers or counselor for advice
  • Finish & submit CSU Applications. Deadline Nov. 30th
  • Check scholarship websites to receive scholarship notifications (see SUHSD scholarship page)
  • Check private colleges & university application deadlines (dates will VARY by college and university). Apply to private universities as early as possible. The earlier you apply the more university aid you may receive.
  • Register for the December ACT
  • Register for the November or December SAT
  • Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors for private colleges and scholarships (give at least 3 week notice for letters). Share your Brag Sheet with recommenders.
 
November
  • The UC application window opens November 1
  • UC & CSU APPLICATIONS ARE DUE THIS MONTH! Due on November 30th.
  • Register for the December SAT and ACT. December is the last testing date accepted by the UCs and CSUs (and in some cases it may be November for certain CSUs)
  • Complete the UC & CSU applications and submit them by November 30th – SUBMIT EARLY! Don’t wait until the last day
  • By applying to the University of California you may qualify the UC's Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan. Students who qualify will not have to pay the UC’s systemwide tuition and fees out of their own pocket if they are a California resident whose total family income is less than $80,000 a year and qualify for financial aid. — and that's just for starters. It gets even better, Blue and Gold students with sufficient financial need can qualify for even more grant aid to help reduce the cost of attending. How to applyFAFSA/California Dream Act Application + Cal Grant GPA Verification Form (you will be automatically considered when you submit these forms by March 2; there is no separate application for this program). The Cal Grant Verification Form is submitted by the Salinas UHSD.
  • Complete private university applications and submit as early as possible. The sooner you submit the applications the more university aid you may receive.
  • Don’t forget to send SAT and/or ACT score reports to colleges and universities (send through College Board or ACT websites)
  • Print and save copies of all submitted applications
  • Complete EOP application (if eligible) for CSU's
  • Finalize recommendation letters from teachers and counselors (remember to ask at least 3 weeks in advance for recommendations. You will need the recommenders email address, first name, last name and phone number). Share your Brag Sheet with recommenders so they could write a more personalized letter about you.
  • Request official transcripts from community college, if you completed any college courses, to be sent to the universities where you applied
  • Register for spring Community College classes
  • Create an FSAID for you and one of your parents to use as an electronic signature on the FAFSA
  • Continue searching for scholarships (see SUHSD scholarship page)
 
December
  • Register for Spring Community College classes
  • Continue searching for scholarships (see SUHSD scholarship page)
  • Start/complete your FAFSA or Dream Act application (Deadline is March 2)
  • Start checking your university portals to keep track of your applications. Remember this is the main form of communication between you and the universities where you applied. Submit any documents that the universities may request
 
January
  • Submit Mid-Year Reports to Common App (if required by universities)
  • Complete the CSS Profile for private universities (check websites for deadlines) if required
  • Continue applying for scholarships. Check with your counselor for any local scholarships
  • Continue searching for scholarships (see SUHSD scholarship page)
  • Register for Spring Community College classes
  • Complete your FAFSA or Dream Act Application (Deadline is March 2)
  • Check your application portals for any documents required by the universities you applied (fall semester grades, transcripts, etc.)
February
  • Continue applying for scholarships. Check with your counselor for any local scholarships
  • Submit the FAFSA and DREAM Act application (Deadline March 2)
  • Complete the CSS Profile for private universities (check university websites for deadlines)
  • If you plan to attend Community College in the fall, meet with college reps or college counselor for more information.
  • Continue to check your application portals for information about housing application deadlines and transcript requests.
 
March
  • March 2nd - FASFA and Dream Act applications due (NO EXCEPTIONS!)
  • Submit application if you are planning to attend Hartnell College, Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) or any other California Community College (CCC)
  • Submit all requested financial information to universities and colleges
  • Continue checking university portals for announcements and deadlines
  • Make necessary changes to the submitted FAFSA or Dream Act applications on the Student Aid Report (SAR)
 
April
  • Submit “Intent to Register” to selected college by deadlines required (no later than May1st)
  • Submit housing application for selected university if you plan to live on campus (many universities guarantee first year students housing or may require students to live in dorms for first year)
  • Review all financial aid award letters
  • Meet with a college representative and/or college counselor if you plan to attend a Community College
 
May/June
  • Submit “Intent to Register” to selected university by the May 1st deadline
  • If you are planning to attend Hartnell College or any other community college in the fall, apply NOW (you should have already done so). See college reps or your counselor for more information
  • Sign up for Early Start or Summer Bridge Program at the UC, CSU or community college where you will attend, if available.
  • Submit housing application for selected university BEFORE the deadline to guarantee student housing. Otherwise, you will have to search for housing.
  • Submit AP scores to the college/university you will attend through the College Board website (This is your responsibility!)
  • Submit official community college transcripts to the college/university you will be attending. You must request the transcripts directly from the community college (This is your responsibility!)
  • Congratulations! Enjoy your graduation
 
JULY
Prepare to attend college/university. Make sure you have the following items:
  • Laptop
  • Computer monitor
  • Small TV
  • Bicycle/skateboard
  • Health insurance cards
  • Cell Phone
  • Headphones/earphones
  • Toiletries
  • Small sewing kit
  • Laundry bin
  • Clothes hangers
  • Alarm clock
  • Desk lamp
  • Towels
  • Pillows
  • Twin bed sheets
  • Blanket
  • Appropriate clothing for weather (jackets, sweaters, shorts, etc)
  • Sandals
  • Mechanical pencils and erasers
  • Highlighters
  • Pens
  • Paper clips
  • Stapler
  • Scissors
  • Small microwave
 
Junior Timeline
 
JUNIOR TIMELINE
 
This is a month-by-month breakdown of what you should be doing during your junior year to prepare for college.
 
August/September
  • Register for the PSAT/NMSQT October to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship
  • Take a practice PSAT Test online (Khan Academy)
  • Enroll in a community college class offered at your school
  • Get involved in extra-curricular activities either at school or in your community
  • Meet with your academic counselor to review your A-G requirements and grad check
  • Ask for a copy of your transcript and check to make sure grades are correct
 
October
  • Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October
  • Register to take the SAT test in May
  • Register to take the April ACT test
  • Start researching different colleges and universities (admissions requirements, majors, cost, etc.) so you can start building a list of schools. List four CSUs, four UCs, and five private universities where you would like to study. You can make changes to this list as you learn about other universities where you may want to attend.
 
December
  • Study for finals! Junior year is very important because it is the last year that universities will take your GPA into account. When you apply to universities in the fall of your senior year the GPA you earned up to the end of your junior year will be the GPA that will be reported to universities which may affect your college admissions.
  • Review your PSAT test results with your counselor and use them to help you study for the real SAT you will taking in May or June. Sign up for free SAT prep through Khan Academy.
  • Research summer programs and internships. See the list of summer programs listed on the Summer Programs page.
  • Continue researching colleges/universities and building your college list
 
January
  • Research summer programs and internships. These programs look very good on college applications!!
  • Meet with your academic counselor to make sure you are on track for graduation
  • If you need to make up low grades from Fall semester, start thinking about summer school or adult school.
  • Request a copy of your transcript to keep track of courses taken
 
February
  • Start/continue to visit colleges and college websites, virtual tours, attend college fairs or go on college field trips
  • Continue to research summer programs and internships
  • Take an interest/career inventory test offered through Naviance to learn about different career pathways and the education needed for certain jobs/careers.
  • Register for the April or June ACT
  • Register for the May or June SAT
 
March
  • Start working on your Brag Sheet for letters of recommendation
  • Start working on the UC’s Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) and Personal Statement for college applications
  • Make plans for summer whether it is summer school, summer program/internship, community service, or summer job
  • Plan to visit colleges (virtual) during Spring Break
  • Research colleges and various college majors to start refining your college list
  • Plan to take AP and college courses your senior year

April
  • Continue to research colleges, universities, and scholarships
  • Visit college campuses and attend college fairs to help you finalize your college list
  • Prepare to take the ACT and SAT Tests
  • Finalize summer plans, consider jobs, internships, summer school, or summer jobs
 
May
  • Take the AP Exams
  • Keep up your grades in all classes
  • Create a college file with universities and scholarships you would like to apply NEXT YEAR
  • Attend local college nights for colleges you may be interested in attending
  • Study for finals! Remember, junior year is very important when it comes to your GPA for college admissions!
 
Summer before Senior Year
  • Visit colleges and begin to finalize your college list
  • Begin/finish working on your personal insight questions for UCs and personal essay for Common Application
  • Finalize your list of colleges
  • Update your Brag Sheet so you have it ready to ask for letters of recommendation in the Fall
  • Begin to complete the Common Application.
 
 
 
 
Freshmen and Sophomore Timeline
 
FRESHMAN AND SOPHOMORE TIMELINE
 
This is a breakdown of what you should be doing during your freshman and sophomore years to prepare for college.
 
 
SOPHOMORE YEAR:
  • Meet with your high school counselor — again. Make sure you meet with your school counselor to ensure your course schedule is challenging enough to prepare you for college.
  • Check if there are any prerequisites to enroll in advanced-level courses such as Honors and Advanced Placement (AP).
  • Prepare to the PSAT. All 10th grade students should take the PSAT in October. This test is important because it provides valuable feedback through the Student Score Report; you can then work on any academic weaknesses while there is still plenty of time to improve upon them. Take the test seriously and try your best.
  • Attend college and career fairs at your school, do not wait until your senior year.
  • Keep up your participation in school activities or volunteer efforts. Extracurricular activities can help you develop time-management skills and enrich your high school experience.
  • Tour college campuses. If possible, take advantage of vacation or other family travel time to visit colleges and see what they are like. You can also take virtual tours of the universities.
  • Even if you have no interest in attending the college you are visiting, it will help you learn what to look for in a college.
  • Make sure you keep your grades up. The UC and CSU will require the weighted GPA from 10th and 11th grades when you apply to the universities.
 
FRESHMAN YEAR:
  • Meet with your academic counselor. Your counselor knows how to help you get the most out of high school. Be sure to take some time during the school year to discuss post-high school plans with your counselor.
  • Create a four-year high school plan. Think about what you would like to accomplish in the next four years.
  • Learn about the levels of courses offered by your school (Honors, AP)
  • Start thinking about the type of life you would like to live after you graduate from school, including the types of jobs that might interest you. This will help you focus on your long term goals.
  • Talk to other people about careers you might find interesting. Try talking to your school counselor, teachers, recent college graduates who are working, professionals in the community, etc.
  • Participate in extracurricular activities. Academics are important but universities are looking for “well rounded” students. Explore your interests in a sport, school club, music or drama group, or community volunteer activity.
  • Remember that colleges would rather see real involvement in one activity than a loose connection to several of them.
  • If you are interested in playing sports in college, research the National College Athletic Association (NCAA) eligibility requirements. The NCAA requires completion of certain core courses and GPA to be eligible to play in college.
  • Begin saving for college. It’s not too late to put money aside for college. Every little bit helps.
  • Explore summer opportunities. Look for a job, internship or volunteer position that will help you learn about a field of interest.
 
Middle School Timeline
Middle school years are very important for students. It is a time of exploration and the beginning of helping students discover their strengths and interests. Students will take different types of assessments to help them identify their learning styles, interests and career goals. Students should be knowledgeable of the college going process to make a better transition from high school to university or vocational school.  The following list will help students begin to research university requirements including the different types of financial aid available.
 
 
GPA Calculations
(Check to make sure info is accurate for SUHSD)
TYPES OF GPA
 
On your transcripts there are several GPA's that hold a different significance and each one is explained below:
  • Cumulative GPA: Includes all courses in 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade; repeated courses are averaged (i.e if you took World History twice, the average of both is used); and an extra point is given for AP, Honors, and (Plus +) classes only.
  • California State University (CSU): Overall weighted; all A-G courses from 10th grade to the summer after 11th are included in the computation except Physical Education courses; extra points are added for each approved Honors and AP class (no more than 8 honors/AP courses can be used for this GPA).
  • University of California (UC): academic weighted; ONLY English, Math, Science, Foreign Language, Social Studies, Visual/Performing Arts (A-G courses 10th grade - summer after 11th ); extra points are added for each approved Honors and AP class (no more than 4 points can be included for 10th grade).
  • Cal-Grant/Financial Aid: is 10th and 11th grades ONLY, no summer school after 11th; includes all courses except Physical Education; no extra points; repeated courses are averaged.
    ​​​​​​​
  • SUHSD: is ALL courses 9th, 10th, 11th, and fall of 12th; repeated courses are averaged; an extra (?) point is given for AP classes only. This GPA is used to determine class rank and becomes official after the Fall Semester of Senior year.
To Calculate your GPA you can use the SUHSD GPA Calculation Form or you can use the CSU GPA Calculator.

Files:
*** Need SUHSD document explaining GPA
GPA Calculation form
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
College Search Tools
 
How to Build a College List

When researching colleges and universities consider these "5 Critical Questions":

1) Which colleges am I eligible for? (CSU, UC, Private, Community college)
2) What geographic area do I prefer? (close to home, same state, out of state, urban, etc.)
3) Do I prefer large, small, or medium-sized campus populations?
4) What major am I interested in pursuing? Which colleges offer that major?
5) What is my EFC (the expected family contribution which can be calculated HERE)? 6) Which schools will meet close to 100% of my financial need?
 
Another leading search tool for finding a college that is right for you is the College Board's Big Future.  For a step-by-step guide on how to use Big Future Click (#36) HERE.
 
For students who are considered AB540 (undocumented) please click HERE for a comprehensive list of admission policies by colleges and universities in many states.

Searching for Schools By Major, Special Interests, Etc.
Interested in finding colleges with the best nursing, engineering, or business program? Curious to learn which colleges don't require the SAT or ACT? Visit College Xpress complete your profile, click List and Rankings, and search by over 800 categories, including scholarships.

California Colleges
For a list of private and public colleges in California with your major visit California Colleges for information about colleges, universities, and scholarships.

Virtual College Tours

College Confidential – Gives insights and reviews on colleges from the voice of college studentseCampusTours – offers virtual tours of over 1,300 college campuses.

Once you have completed your college search, break your college selection list down into three categories:

  • Safety- Colleges where you will more than likely be accepted based on your GPA and courses taken in comparison to other applicants. Make sure you apply CSU Monterey Bay and UC Santa Cruz since they are your local universities where you have priority of being accepted.
  • Target- Perfect fit colleges where you should be accepted based on your GPA and courses taken.
  • Reach- Colleges that are highly competitive and highly impacted where you might be accepted
 
Types of Colleges and Universities
 
What kind of college do you see yourself attending?  It's very important that students take the time to research their college options and find the college that fits what they are looking for in a college experience.
Source:  The CollegeBoard
 
 Liberal Arts Colleges:  These college offer a broad base of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Most are private and focus mainly on undergraduate students. Classes tend to be small and personal attention is available.  For the best Liberal Arts Colleges visit U.S. News & World Report.
 
Universities:  Generally, a university is bigger than a college and offers more majors and research facilities. Class size often reflects institutional size and some classes may taught by graduate students.  For a listing of all U.S. Colleges & Universities click here or visit The CollegeBoard website.
 
Agricultural, Technical, and Specialized Colleges:  Have you made a clear decision about what you want to do with your life? Specialized colleges emphasize preparation for specific careers. Examples include Art/Music, Bible, Business, Health Science, Seminary/Rabbinical, and Teaching.  For more info visit The CollegeBoard website.
 
Public vs. Private:  On the one hand, public colleges are usually less expensive, particularly for in-state residents. They get most of their money from the state or local government. Examples of public institutions are:  community college, Cal State Universities and UC campuses.
 
Private colleges rely on tuition, fees, endowments, and other private sources. On the other hand, private colleges are usually smaller and can offer more personalized attention (and some believe, more prestige).  Examples of private institutions include:  USC, Chapman University, Stanford University, etc.  You can apply to more than one private college using one application.  Visit The CommonApp website for a listing of participating colleges.
 
Special Interests
  • Single-Sex: All four-year public colleges and most private schools are co-ed. Although they may enroll a few members of the opposite sex, there are fewer than 100 colleges for only men and a similar amount for women.  Examples of Women's Colleges include:  Smith College; Wellesley College; Mills College; Mount Saint Mary's College.  Men's Colleges: Saint John's University; Morehouse College; Wabash College.
  • Religiously Affiliated Colleges: Some private colleges are affiliated with a religious faith. The affiliation may be historic only or it may affect day-to-day student life.  Examples are:  Biola University; Concordia University; Vanguard University; Loyola Marymount University. 
For more information on religiously-affiliated colleges and universities, visit the following Web sites:
  • Historically Black Colleges: Historically-black colleges find their origins in the time when African American students were systematically denied access to most other colleges and universities. These schools offer students a unique opportunity to experience an educational community in which they're part of the majority.  To learn more about Historically Black Colleges visit:  www.blackcollegesearch.com
  • Hispanic-Serving Institutes: The federal government considers a college as "Hispanic-Serving” if at least 25 percent of the total full-time undergraduate enrollment is made up of Hispanic students.  For a list of HSI colleges, visit:  www.hacu.net
 
Am I on Track for CSU or UC Admissions
 
Graduation and College Admissions Requirements
 
Am I on Track for a UC or CSU?
 
To determine whether you're on track for a CSU or UC school check the table below and have the following two items in hand: 1) Your transcript 2) UCOP A-G course list, which you can download just below this table.
 
 
 
 
California State University
 
CSU System
 
(For more information on the CSU's click here: www.calstate.edu/apply)
 
The CSU system consists of 23 campuses across the state of California. Students can earn Bachelor's degrees and Master's degrees in different majors and fields. For the students graduating from the Salinas UHSD our local CSU is CSU Monterey Bay.
 
To be eligible to apply to a CSU you must have completed the following minimum entrance requirements:
  • Successful completion of the A-G requirements with a grade of "C" or better
  • High school GPA (CSU GPA) minimum of a 2.5.

Here is a chart comparing the 23 CSU campuses for CA residents:
Location
Setting
Fees only
Est. total cost living on campus
Total enrollment
Cal Maritime
Northern California
Large Town
$5,294
$20,812
1,149
Cal Poly Pomona
Southern California
Large Town
$4,812
$18,609
23,717
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Central California
Large Town
$6,780
$28,864
20,944
CSU Bakersfield
Southern California
Major City
$5,341
$17,983
9,225
CSU Channel Islands
Southern California
Large Town
$5,085
$22,209
6,700
CSU Chico
Northern California
Small/Medium City
$5,620
$21,642
17,220
CSU Dominguez Hills
Southern California
Large Town
$4,849
$20,197
14,635
CSU East Bay
Northern California
Major City
$5,091
$21,815
15,528
CSU Fresno
Central California
Small/Medium City
$4,878
$20,796
24,136
CSU Fullerton
Southern California
Small/Medium City
$4,866
$20,018
38,948
CSU Long Beach
Southern California
Small/Medium City
$4,810
$20,675
36,809
CSU Los Angeles
Southern California
Major City
$4,847
$19,610
24,488
CSU Monterey Bay
Central California
Large Town
$4,721
$18,591
7,102
CSU Northridge
Southern California
Major City
$5,076
$22,931
40,131
CSU Sacramento
Northern California
Major City
$5,194
$21,772
30,284
CSU San Bernardino
Southern California
Small/Medium City
$5,049
$19,683
20,024
CSU San Marcos
Southern California
Large Town
$5,124
$21,478
12,150
CSU Stanislaus
Central California
Large Town
$5,302
$19,142
9,045
Humboldt State University
Northern California
Small Town
$5,755
$20,995
8,790
San Diego State University
Southern California
Major City
$5,206
$22,306
34,254
San Francisco State University
Northern California
Major City
$5,014
$23,476
30,256
San Jose State University
Central California
Major City
$5,370
$21,586
32,773
Sonoma State University
Northern California
Large Town
$5,580
$21,808
9,350
 
 
 
California State University Entrance Requirements
 
The following is the MINIMUM required courses for admittance to any of the CSU campuses. In order for you to be highly competitive, you should enroll in one or two extra years in all areas especially if you would like to attend any of the impacted and highly selective campuses.
 
The CSU requires a minimum 15-unit pattern of courses for admission as a first-time freshman. Each unit is equal to a year of study in a subject area. A grade of C or better is required for each course you use to meet any subject requirement.
 
Area
Subject
Years
a.
History and Social Science (including 1 year of U.S. history or 1 semester of U.S. history and 1 semester of civics or American government AND 1 year of social science)
2
b.
English (4 years of college preparatory English composition and literature)
4
c.
Math (4 years recommended) of college preparatory math including or integrating topics covered in algebra, geometry, and intermediate algebra.
3
d.
Laboratory Science (2 years of college preparatory science required with laboratory [1 biological and 1 physical]. Integrated science and interdisciplinary courses can meet this requirement.)
2
e.
Language Other Than English (2 years or through the second level of high school instruction in the same language; American Sign Language and classical languages such as Latin and Greek are acceptable – See below about a possible waiver of this requirement).
2
f.
Visual and Performing Arts (1 year or 2 semester courses from the same discipline required including dance, music, theatre, visual arts or interdisciplinary arts.)​
1
g.
College Preparatory Elective (additional year chosen from the University of California "a-g" list)
1
Total Required Courses
15

GPA
You must earn a grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or better in these courses with no grade lower than a C. Keep in mind that the higher your GPA, the better chance you have of being accepted. A GPA of 2.5 doeas guarantee admission to any of the CSU campuses.

SAT/ACT
Test scores are not required for 2022-2033.

How CSU's Review Applications and Campus ImpactionMany CSU campuses have higher standards for particular majors or for students who live outside the local admission area. In the case for Salinas UHSD students, this would be any school other than CSU Monterey Bay. 

Because of the number of students who apply, several campuses have higher standards (supplementary admission criteria) for all applicants. Many CSU campuses utilize local admission guarantee policies for students who graduate from high school or transfer from community colleges that are historically served by a CSU campus in that region. You may review the CSU Local Admission Areas and impaction for each campus here.

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)
In addition to completing your CSU application, most Salinas UHSD students will be eligible and should apply for the EOP program.  The Educational Opportunity Program is designed to improve access and retention of historically low-income and educationally disadvantaged students.
 
Special Populations
 
All students must be able to meet the academic, accreditation and technical standards required for admission or participation in their chosen program of study. Students with disabilities, therefore, are not excused from course prerequisites, GPA requirements or degree requirements. However, in some limited circumstances, substitution of course requirements based on a documented disability may be appropriate.
 
Such substitutions are granted only when it is clear that the student’s disability makes completion of the requirement(s) impossible and when the course in question is not a fundamental element of the curriculum. A course substitution means that the credit hours for the course are met through an alternate course. A course substitution may not alter or reduce the number of credits needed for degree completion or create a fundamental alteration in the program of study.
 
Students should visit their campus’s admissions website for the process to appeal an admission denial when the student’s disability directly impacts their ability to complete an admission requirement.
 
CSU Application (DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 30) - www.calstate.edu/apply
This website is a one-stop shop to complete an application to any of the 23 CSU campuses.
  • Application fee: $70 per campus
  • Fee Waiver: Application for fee waiver is part of the actual online application. Fee waiver is based on your family's annual income and the number of people in your household. If granted you can apply to up to 4 CSU campuses for free!
 
Additional Websites
 
Files:
19 Introductory tutorial for creating a Cal State Apply application for admission.
  • CSU Freshman Overview video (Need video)
  • Cal State Apply Overview. Step By Step process to complete application.
39 CSU Local Admission and Service Areas
 
Early Assessment Program (EAP)
 
Learning early about your readiness for college is important. Although students may have passed all high school courses, many are still not yet prepared for college level English and mathematics when they enter a university. The Early Assessment Program (EAP) is a collaborative effort among the State Board of Education (SBE), the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California State University (CSU).
 
The program was established to provide opportunities for students to measure their readiness for college level English and mathematics in their junior year of high school, and to facilitate opportunities for them to improve their skills during their senior year. This opportunity can also help students avoid taking the placement tests at the CSU and participating community colleges. Incoming students who do not demonstrate readiness for college level mathematics and/or English composition will be required to enroll in Early Start during the summer before coming to the CSU.
 
For more information on the CSU Monterey Bay EAP please visit their website.
 
Educational Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS)
 
An EOP student is one who has the potential to perform satisfactorily in CSU but who has not been able to realize this potential because of economic or educational background. The EOP program provides admission, academic, and financial assistance to eligible undergraduate students at the CSU campus they are enrolled in.
 
To be eligible for EOP, students must meet certain income criteria to be eligible:
 
EOP Application Process
  • Complete the CSU application for admission
  • Complete the EOP application for each CSU campus.
  • Have a teacher and/or counselor complete the recommendation form. You will need their first name, last name and email address. Your teacher/counselor will complete the recommendation form online. Make sure you give them a copy of your completed Salinas UHSD brag sheet.
  • Make sure you supply all supporting documents (official transcripts, test scores, etc) by the deadline
 
The University of California
 
For more information on the University of California go HERE.
 
The UC system consists of 9 undergraduate campuses across the state of California. Students can earn Bachelor's degrees, Master's degrees and doctorate degrees in different majors and fields. The local university for the Salinas UHSD is UC Santa Cruz.
 
To be ELIGIBLE to apply to a UC you must have the following minimum requirements:
  • Successful completion of the A-G requirements with a grade of "C" or better
  • High school GPA (UC GPA) minimum of a 3.0
To be considered for admission to the University of California, students must complete 15 year-long high school courses with a grade of C or better — at least 11 of them prior to a student’s senior year.
 
The 15 courses are:
  • History/social science (2 years).
 
  • English (4 years)
 
  • Mathematics (3 years) - 4 recommended.
 
  • Laboratory science (2 years) one year of a Biological and one year of a Physical Science – 3 recommended.
 
  • Language other than English (2 years) – 3 years recommended.
 
  • Visual and performing arts (1 year) – 2 recommended
 
  • College-preparatory elective (1 year)- 2 recommended
(chosen from the subjects listed above or another course approved by the university)
 

GPA- Students must earn a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or better (3.4 for nonresidents) in these courses with no grade lower than a C.


SAT/ACT

UC will not consider SAT or ACT test scores when making admissions decisions or awarding scholarships. If you choose to submit test scores as part of your application, they may be used as an alternative method of fulfilling minimum requirements for eligibility or for course placement after you enroll.
 

California Students

If you are a state resident graduating from a California high school who has met the minimum requirements and not admitted to any UC campus to which you apply, you will be offered a spot at another campus if space is available, provided:
 
  • You rank in the top 9 percent of California high school students, according to our updated Statewide Index,
 
or

  • You rank in the top 9 percent of your graduating class at a participating high school. We refer to this as "Eligible in the Local Context" (ELC).
 
Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan
 
UC's Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan will ensure that you will NOT have to pay UC’s systemwide tuition and fees out of your own pocket if you are a California resident whose total family income is less than $80,000 a year and you qualify for financial aid — and that's just for starters. This program is also available for AB 540 students. To qualify you must submit the FAFSA and DREAM Act application by the March 2 deadline.
 
Blue and Gold students with sufficient financial need can qualify for even more grant aid to help reduce the cost of attending.
 
How to applyFAFSA/California Dream Act Application + Cal Grant GPA Verification Form (you will be automatically considered when you submit these forms by March 2; there is no separate application for this program).
 
Middle Class Scholarship Program
 
The Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) program provides funding to help middle-class students attend the University of California or California State University. Each year, the state allocates funding for the program. For UC students, the goal of this funding is to provide scholarships that help cover up to 40% of UC’s systemwide tuition and fees for families whose income is less than $191,000.
 
 
The Holistic Review: How UC's Evaluate your Application
The UC campuses evaluate your academic achievements in light of the opportunities available to you and your demonstrated capacity to contribute to the intellectual life at UC. Some factors the UC may consider are:
  • Academic grade point average in all completed A-G courses, including additional points for completed UC-certified honors courses.
  • Number of, content of and performance in academic courses beyond the minimum A-G requirements.
  • Number of and performance in UC-approved honors, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate Higher Level and transferable college courses.
  • Identification by UC as being ranked in the top 9 percent of your high school class at the end of your junior year (Eligible in the Local Context, or ELC).
  • Quality of your senior-year program as measured by the type and number of academic courses in progress or planned.
  • Quality of your academic performance relative to the educational opportunities available in your high school.
  • Outstanding performance in one or more specific subject areas.
  • Outstanding work in one or more special projects in any academic field of study.
  • Recent, marked improvement in academic performance as demonstrated by academic GPA and the quality of coursework completed or in progress.
  • Special talents, achievements and awards in a particular field, such as visual and performing arts, communication or athletic endeavors; special skills, such as demonstrated written and oral proficiency in other languages; special interests, such as intensive study and exploration of other cultures; experiences that demonstrate unusual promise for leadership, such as significant community service or significant participation in student government; or other significant experiences or achievements that demonstrate the student's promise for contributing to the intellectual vitality of a campus.
  • Completion of special projects undertaken in the context of your high school curriculum or in conjunction with special school events, projects or programs.
  • Academic accomplishments in light of your life experiences and special circumstances, including but not limited to: disabilities, low family income, first generation to attend college, need to work, disadvantaged social or educational environment, difficult personal and family situations or circumstances, refugee status or veteran status.
  • Location of your secondary school and residence.
UC Application (DEADLINE NOVEMBER 30)
 
To apply to the University of California you must create an account before you are able to apply to the 9 undergraduate UC campuses.
  • Application fee: $70 per campus
  • Fee Waiver: You can apply for a fee waiver within the online application and be notified immediately whether you have qualified. You will need to provide your family's income and the number of people supported by that income. If granted you can apply to up to 4 UC campuses for free!
  • Personal Insight Questions: Click on these instructions to get help with the personal insight questions: Personal Insight Questions Guide for Freshman Applicants
  • Click on these instructions for help with the UC application: UC Application Instructions.
  • In order to qualify for the UC’s Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan you must submit the FAFSA.
 
***Ready to Apply? Click HERE***

VIDEOS
For assistance in completing the UC application watch the following videos:
UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
 
UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
 
Remember, the personal questions are just that — personal. The important thing is expressing who are you, what matters to you and what you want to share with UC. There are 8 questions to choose from, select 4 questions and respond with a maximum of 350 words for each selected question.
 
  • Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.

    Things to consider:A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or a taking lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about your accomplishments and what you learned from the experience.  What were your responsibilities? 
Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, the church in your community or an organization? Your leadership role does not necessarily have to be limited to school activities.  For example, do you help or take care of your family? How do you support them?

2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.  

Things to consider:  What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem?
How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career?

3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?  

Things to consider: If you have a talent or skill that you are proud of, this is the time to share it. You do not necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you?
Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule?

4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that’s geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you — just to name a few. 
If you choose to write about educational barriers you have faced, how did you overcome or strived to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who are you today?

5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you’\ have faced and what you have learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone?
If you are currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, “How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends, or with my family?”

6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. 
 
Things to consider:  Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can not get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom — such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs — and what you have gained from your involvement.
Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that?

  • What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?  

    Things to consider:Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place – like your high school, hometown, or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community?
Why were you inspired to act?  What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community?

8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?
Things to consider:  If there is anything you want us to know about you, but did not find a question or place in the application to tell us, now is your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better?
From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Do not be afraid to brag a little.
 
How to answer UC's Personal Insight Questions (PIQ)
 
 


 
Private Colleges and Universities
 
There are thousands of private colleges and universities across the country. They vary in size, location, majors/field of study and price. They also vary in their application and eligibility requirements.
 
Typically, most private colleges and universities will require the same minimum requirements as the CSU's and/or UC's. However some colleges are more competitive and have higher admissions criteria, while others are less competitive and don't have as many requirements.
 
The best way to learn of the requirements is to visit the college's website.
 
Here are a list of websites where you can learn more about private colleges to get you started:
 
CSS Profile
 
The College Board's CSS/Financial Aid Profile is an online application that collects information used by almost 300 colleges and scholarship programs to award financial aid from sources outside of the federal government. Many private colleges and universities require students to complete the CSS Profile in addition to the FAFSA/Dream Act application.
 
The CSS Profile is put out by the College Board and there is a fee. It costs $25 to submit for the first school applied to and $16 per school after that. Fee waivers are available for students who used a fee waiver for the SAT. They can use the fee waiver for up to 8 schools to send the CSS profile to.
 
 
 
 
 
File:
 
40 CSS Profile Fee Waiver Application
 
 
 
The Common Application
The Common Application is an undergraduate college admission application that students may use to apply to any of more than 900 colleges and universities in the US and other countries.
In the past, applying to college was often seen as a daunting, tedious task. Since many schools maintained their own proprietary applications, students had to complete each one individually — and they often required different components, too.
 
Nowadays, most major colleges and universities accept the Common Application, a streamlined college application system that allows you to apply to multiple schools at once. This process not only saves you time but also alleviates the stress of having to gather various application materials for each of your prospective schools.
Before you apply to private and out of state universities check the Common Application list to see which universities accept the application.  You can search by name of the location, region, financial aid, minority serving institution, enrollment size, etc.
Application deadlines for each college and university may vary. Check each university’s deadline and submit application as early as possible. Remember, you may have to submit letters of recommendation and the CSS Profile. You may also be required to pay the application fee for each university you apply which can vary from $25 to $90. The Common Application has a fee waiver that you can request on the "Profile" screen’s Fee Waiver section.
Common App Prompts
The 2021-2022 Common App Essay Prompts. 
 
  • Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
  • The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
  • Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
  • Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
  • Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
  • Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
  • Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.
 
 
 
Letters of Recommendations and Brag Sheet
 
When applying to certain colleges (mostly private colleges and universities), college programs like EOP, and scholarships, a letter of recommendation is usually required as part of the application. Usually these recommendations will come from your teacher and/or your counselor.
 
Follow these steps for getting letters of recommendation:
  • Complete the #37Salinas UHSD brag sheet. Give as much information as possible. The more information you provide, the more information your recommender will have to write a great letter.
  • Ask your teacher/counselor at least 3 WEEKS in advance of when you will need the letter.
  • Give them a copy of your brag sheet; this will help them write a more personal letter for you.
  • For the Common Application, ask for your teacher/counselor's first and last name, email address, and phone number. The request for recommendation will be emailed to them directly. Once they receive the message requesting the letter they will be able to upload the letter to the Common Application.
  • Don't forget to show your appreciation with a simple thank you note.
IMPORTANT: Many of the private college deadlines are during the Winter Break! Make sure you ask for letters of recommendation well before the Winter Break.
 
 


Files:
  • 37. Salinas UHSD BRAG SHEET fillable
 
 
 
 
 
Community Colleges
 
Community colleges are an excellent option for students to work towards an Associates degree, trade/tech certificate or as a pathway to transfer to a 4-year college or university. Many students choose to attend a community college after high school for a number of different reasons including financial reasons (yes, community college is a lot less expensive) or perhaps to further their academic skills before transferring to a 4-year university or college.
 
Here in California we are very fortunate to have a great system of community colleges. Typically, community colleges are non-residential, which means they do not have on-campus housing. Students who attend community college usually live at home and commute to school on a daily basis.
 
Requirements to be ELIGIBLE to apply to a community college:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older OR
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
Steps to apply/enroll at a California community college:
  • Complete an online application from the California Community Colleges.  
  • Apply to a community college (Hartnell College and Monterey Peninsula College)
  • Meet with a counselor at the community to go over classes you should register for.
  • Register for your classes online
  • Apply to EOPS – The program provides support services to first generation, low income, under-represented college students
  • No application fee
32 Salinas Valley Promise
 
The Salinas Valley Promise program at Hartnell College and Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) offer two free years of tuition - and much more. Hartnell College provides an experience that will support students’ personal, academic and professional success. Those who qualify for the Promise will join other Promise students with similar goals and interests. Together, they will participate in a leadership institute, quarterly professional development workshops, and will be mentored by professionals in the community. In order to qualify for the Salinas Valley Promise Program, students must be a graduate (high school diploma or GED) of a high school or adult school within the Hartnell Community College District.
 
As a Salinas Valley Promise student, you will receive:
  • Two years with zero in-state tuition, regardless of household income
  • A free laptop OR Hartnell Bookstore voucher
  • Participation in a institute requirement
  • Quarterly student success & professional development workshops
  • Mentoring by faculty and a peer
For more information about the Salinas Valley Promise please call (831) 755-6723
 
Dual/Concurrent Enrollment
The Salinas UHSD offers college classes at every high school in the district during and after school so students can earn college units while they are still in high school! The classes are FREE! These classes count for both high school and college credit. High school students who complete dual enrollment classes generally take fewer classes in college and save money on their total college costs.
 
 
FALL 2022 CLASSES ARE NOW AVAILABLE!  SEE YOUR COUNSELOR TO SIGN UP
DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR THE CLASS - JANUARY 22, 2022
 
Check with your counselors for the classes, times, and locations that will be offered at your school
  • COUNSELING 40 -  College Success Seminar
  • CHILD DEVELOPMENT 11 - Child, Community and Family
  • CHICANO STUDIES 58 - Latin American Dance and Cultures
  • ART 103 - Art Appreciation
  • HEALTH 11 - Principles of Healthy Living
 
 
TO REGISTER FOR COLLEGE CLASSES:
 
 
An application for admissions to Hartnell College is required if you are a new student to Hartnell or are a returning student after an absence of one year or more.   Concurrent Enrollment students are required to submit a new application every term.
 
Students may apply for admission by completing the online CCCApplication.  The application process is free and without obligation.  CCCapply is supported by the California Community Colleges Chancellor'a Office.  To begin the application process, please follow these steps.
 
STEP 1:   Log into OpenCCC Apply
 
New Users will need to create an OpenCCC account and Returning users will sign in with their username and password.  (the username and password are OpenCCC is different than the Hartnell PAWS Self-Serve username and password)
 
 
STEP 2:  Complete and Submit Online Application
 
Answer all questions to the best of your ability and be sure to click the "submit" button at the end of the application.  You will receive a confirmation email shortly after submitting application for admissions. 
 
STEP 3:  Review Confirmation Emails:
 
New Students will receive 2 follow up emails. 
 
A Welcome to Hartnell email will arrive in your inbox soon after submitting the OpenCCC Application.  This email details for next Steps for Student Success.
 
Followed by a New Applicant email containing your Hartnell Student ID# and instructions to log in PAWS Self-Serve.
 
Continuing/Returning Students will only receive one confirmation email and will be able to access their PAWS account 1-2 working days after submittng their application.
 
If you do not receive a confirmaiton email, please contact the Admissions and Records Office at 831-755-6711 or email admissions@hartnell.edu
 
Students who are interested in taking college courses at a Hartnell College that are not offered in the dual enrollment offerings can be Concurrently Enrolled at the college. Please see the Concurrent Enrollment process and application packet.
 
 
 
NCAA/NAIA/NJCAA Eligibility
 
Do you want to play sports at the collegiate level? Well there are certain things you need to know...
 
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is the governing body for around 1,200 schools. It consists of three divisions (Division I, II, and III) and oversees 23 sports. Divisions I and II both offer athletic scholarships, with over 126,000 student-athletes receiving partial or full athletic scholarships. However, Division III student-athletes can only receive academic or non-athletic scholarships – no athletic scholarships are allowed.
 
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) consists of 300 schools and 13 sports. The NAIA is a smaller association than the NCAA, with just over 60,000 students. It includes two divisions (Division I and II) and Division I in the NAIA is comparable to Division II in the NCAA. Over 90% of schools in the NAIA offer scholarships, and NAIA athletes receive an average of $7,000 of financial aid.
 
The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAAis an association of community college and junior college athletic departments throughout the United States. It is divided into divisions and regions. The current NJCAA holds 24 separate regions.
 
Depending on which type of school you plan to attend and/or play sports for, you will be required to register on either the NCAA Eligibility Center or the NAIA Eligibility Center. In addition to registering you must have complete a minimum number of courses, and earn a minimum GPA.
 
For more information about playing sports in college meet with your counselor and your coach. Let them know of your interest in continuing to be a scholar athlete.
Summer Programs
 
Summer programs and internships are a great way to get college experience, learn about a specific career pathway, earn college credit or gain job experience. Most programs have a fee but often times there are scholarships available to cover at least part of the cost. These programs look great on college applications!
 
Check out some of these programs. This page will be updated as new programs are added. Also check with your counselor for other programs that may be available. IMPORTANT:  Keep in mind most programs require letters of recommendation.  Begin the application process & request letters at least 3 - 5 weeks before the deadline.
 
  • CSUMB
  • UCSC
  • SJSU
  • Stanford
  • Santa Clara U.
  • UC Berkeley
Arthritis Foundation Summer Science Internship - The Summer Science Internship Program provides twelve outstanding students with the opportunity to work in leading research and clinical laboratories under the supervision of respected scientists at Stanford University or the University of California, San Francisco. Ultimately, the goal is to encourage students to pursue a career in scientific study and research, and potentially focus on immunology and rheumatic diseases in college and beyond. The internship will run from June  to August. Interns will be expected to work approximately 40 hours per week for 8 weeks. See the website for additional information.
Application Due:                          Program Dates: June to August                              Cost: Stipend
 
 
Bank of America Student Leaders
 
Deadline: January 29
Eight week paid summer internship with a local nonprofit organization. Take part in an all-expense-paid week in Washington, D.C. Learn how nonprofits, government, and business can partner to create a positive impact in our communities.
  • Current juniors or seniors
  • Be able to work eight weeks at a local non-profit and work 35 hours a week
  • Relatives of Bank of America employees are not eligible to apply
Program dates: Late June – August             Cost: FREE, paid internship
 
 
California State Summer School for the Arts               
Deadline:  February 26
CSSSA is four weeks of exploration, discovery and hard work designed to unleash your creative power. Talented high school students will receive intensive training from professionals in music, theatre, video and film, visual arts, dance, creative writing, and animation.  Held at CalArts in Valencia, CA (near Magic Mountain).
Program dates:  July 10 – August 6
 
Cost:  $2,250 (full and partial scholarships available)
 
Start early - Long application requires Letters of Recommendation from Fine Arts teacher(s)
 
California State University Northridge – Students enrolled in the CSUN Summer Academic Enrichment Program (SAEP) will focus on academic and character development. The desire is to instill and awaken a sense of hope and possibility in each student as s/he studies and learns on a California State University campus. The program offers both enrichment and academic classes: middle school students can take classes for preparation and/or for pleasure; whereas, high school classes are taken for preparation, pleasure, and credit.
 
Camino al Futuro --- Not available summer 2021.  May be offered Summer 2022.                                                            
Deadline:  March 1
Program dates: June 27 - July 16, 2022.
 
A selective, pre-college summer program for qualified rising high school seniors offered by the George Washington University (GW) and GW’s Cisneros Hispanic Institute. Students will examine the political, economic and social transformations impacting the Hispanic community through academic discourse with university professors and other experts in their fields. They will also engage with community organizations, meet with business leaders, policymakers, and take advantage of site visits around Washington D.C. The program is FULLY funded, it covers, room & board, materials, round-trip airfare to Washington D.C. and program-related activities. Great opportunity! 
 Carnegie Mellon Summer Pre-College Programs - For over 100 years, Carnegie Mellon has offered students unique and hands-on educational programs from the fine arts to technology and everything in between. Through the Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Program, rising juniors and seniors in high school have the opportunity to experience this world-class education. Our summer Pre-College program options include the following: Mirroring the undergraduate experience, our Pre-College program gives students the opportunity to explore their interests while receiving instruction from acclaimed Carnegie Mellon faculty and staff. Students will also participate in a robust outside of the classroom experience.
 
Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project
Deadline: June 4

Open to current 10th and 11th graders; no gpa requirement.  Conference participants participate in powerful workshops and seminars that will enhance leadership skills, academic  preparedness, self-esteem, cultural awareness, and provide an understanding of state and local government.  The program will be virtual and take place July 16-18, 21,24,25.
 
COSMOS
Deadline:  February 19 on-line app. only
(Application opens January 20)
A four-week online program where students work side-by-side with outstanding university researchers and faculty to explore advanced topics in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) using hands-on and labs.  Most students qualifying for Free and Reduced Lunch attend for FREE.  Students who do not qualify for the lunch program will need to pay partial or close to $2,217 if accepted and you plan to attend.
Program dates:  July 6 – July 31  at UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, UC Santa Cruz
Cost:  $30 app fee, see flyer for tuition and full/partial scholarship opportunities
    • Current students in grades 8-12
    • Talented and motivated in math and science
(Start early - Long application requires two Letters of Recommendation from Math & Science teachers (preferred)
 
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute "Ready to Lead" Next Gen
Deadline: February 15
 
Each year, CHCI brings students in currently in 10th and 11th grade to participate in the R2L NextGen program, a week-long leadership training online program. During the program students gain a deeper understanding of the importance of their role as engaged citizens, meet with key leaders, participate in study visits at historic sites and develop a deeper understanding of how they can affect positive change in their communities and their nation.  Select R2L - Southern California
Cost:  FREE       Dates:  June 13-18 or June 22-July 3 or July 18-23      Eligibility:  Open to current 10 and 11 grade students
Project M.I.S.S @ Cal State Fullerton
Deadline:  June 18

For high school girls interested in pursuing a career involving mathematics or enjoys the subject. Open to 9-11 grade female students who have completed Geometry or Algebra II with a C or better.  Program takes place virtually from July 6 - 30, 2021 (no class on July 5, due to Independence holiday). The program is FREE!
 
CURIE Academy & CATALYST Academy   
Deadline:  March 1
Cornell University (NY) has two one-week summer programs that students may be able to attend for FREE if they meet the following criteria:
--CURIE Academy: Open to 10th-11th female students with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale; earned a 620 on PSAT/SAT/Subject Test and currently taking or plan to take Calculus, Physics or Chemistry (or related advanced Science and Math courses).
 
 
--CATALYST Academy: Open to 10th-11th graders who earned a 620 on PSAT/SAT/Subject Test and currently taking or plan to take Calculus, Physics or Chemistry (or related advanced Science and Math courses).
 
Cost:  $1450 (does not include travel --- Juniors may be able to go for FREE!)          
Dates:  July 18-24        
Cyber Math Academy Summer Camp - Two summer camps to choose from including Harvard and Stanford University. Scholarships are available SAT prep at Harvard University. Other camps offered as well. July 6-17th.
EXPLO-EXPLO is a nonprofit education innovator that brings curiosity, engagement, and humanity to teaching and learning. Since 1976 our summer programs have enrolled more than 80,000 students from 50 states and 90 countries, and we continue to work with schools, policymakers, and business leaders to challenge traditional approaches to education in favor of creativity, design thinking, and critical making mindset. Exploration and Focus programs in a variety of topics including Bioengineering for Girls, Emergency Medicine, Foreign Affairs, Future of Medicine, Medical Rounds, orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Psychology & Neuroscience, Sports Management, Startup Entrepreneurship and Veterinary Science and more. See website for program dates, cost and application information. 
Girls Who Code  
Deadline:  March 13
Drexel's summer academic programs are summer camps open to highly motivated high school students who wish to explore what a university-level program is all about. Workshops are led by Drexel faculty and utilize Drexel's labs, facilities, and the city of Philadelphia's many resources. Choose from any of the following disciplines:
Drexel University Environmental Science Leadership Academy (DESLA) - DESLA is one part adventure travel, one part leadership training and two parts field experience. The "tour guides" on this adventure are all-star professors from Drexel's Dept. of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science and expert professors from the oldest natural history museum in the Western Hemisphere, theAcademy of natural Sciences of Drexel University. Students will gain a broad understanding of what it means to be an environmental scientist and geoscientist, and what it takes to be a leader in the field. See website for locations and dates.
 
Duke University Summer Programs- Duke University Summer programs are designed for students seeking to gain academic credit from Duke faculty or interested in engaging deeply with a particular subject, those hoping to spend their summer enjoying residential activities on Duke's historic West Campus or those seeking to prepare for college and to create an international network of peers. Three programs offered - Summer College - 4-week academic program for students in grades 10 - 12, the Summer Academy - academic enrichment for grades 9 - 12 and Accelerated STEM academy for grades 9 - 12. Deadline to apply is April 15, 2020.
Gettysburg College Summer Programs 2020 -Gettysburg College is excited to offer several opportunities for high school juniors and sophomores to attend academic camps over the summer months. Subjects include psychology, history, creative writing, or information technology. Please find information to share with your students about our academic camps below: 
  • 3D Object Modeling and Printing Camp - Students will study 3D object modeling and printing starting with the basics of a 3D printer. After learning the fundamentals, they will practice designing objects.
  • Build a Bot and Code It Too - Students will gain hands-on experiences in coding, wiring electronics, and building robots through the open-source software and hardware. This camp is an introduction into the world of coding robotics and electronics. 
  • Camp Psych - Students will get hands-on experiences that introduce them to research in psychology during this fun, challenging, and engaging introduction to the field.
  • Civil War Era Studies Camp - Students will get to enjoy historic Gettysburg, Pennsylvania while studying the American Civil War History through lectures, field trips, and unique learning experiences. They will explore the circumstances leading to the war, investigate significant battles during the war, and explore the condition of the United States after the war. 
  • Young Writers' Workshop - Students gain an in-depth introduction to all four genres of creative writing: fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and writing for stage and screen.
  • Civil War Institute Summer Conference - Scholarship - The High School Student Scholarship component of Gettysburg College's annual Civil War Institute summer conference provides high school students an opportunity to explore the history of the Civil War era on the site of the war's most decisive battle. 
 
The Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program is a 2-week computer science course that embeds classrooms in technology companies and universities. Students learn the fundamentals of computer science - from robotics to how to build a webpage - while gaining exposure to the tech industry and mentorship from women working in technology.  Santa Ana Public Library offers program, as well as other cities in the county and state.
Criteria:  Open to current 9th thru 11th graders
Cost:  FREE, in addition, eligible students can receive a need-based $300 stipend
HSF Latino Youth Leadership Institute
Deadline: April 9
 
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund's Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) is a four-day, overnight, college empowerment conference for Latino high school juniors. It is designed to give young leaders the practical tools they need to successfully apply to top universities, have full access to scholarship and financial aid opportunities, and set a course for academic and career success. Attendees will enhance their leadership abilities and expand their professional networks by participating in college and career workshops, live on a college campus, and interact with college students and professionals who serve as their mentors.
Criteria:  Juniors, 3.0+ GPA on a 4.0 scale.  
Program dates:  July 7-11 at University of Chicago (virtual)   or July 21-25 at the University of Southern California (virtual)
Cost: FREE
 
 
Inspire        
Deadline:  March 1

https://sites.uci.edu/inspire    (Sign-in at home, school is blocking website)
Current 12th graders planning to enroll at a community college and interested in engineering or computer science. INSPIRE is a two-week residential program at UC Irvine. You participate in classroom activities 5-6 hours a day, fun activities after class and live and eat at the university dorms. Great way to experience college and find out if engineering and computer science is for you! Also open to current community college students.
Criteria: 3.0 unweighted GPA
 
Latino Youth Leadership of Orange County
 
Deadline: April 9
 
The Latino Youth Leadership of Orange County is a FREE one-week summer program for Latino male students currently in 10th or 11th grade. The program has been successful in helping guide and mentor male students in Santa Ana through high school and beyond.  Despite the ongoing pandemic, the conference organizers are committed to serving our students and will be continuing this year with a virual format.  The LYLOC is currently recruiting 01th and 11th grade Latino male students for its Virtual Academy that will be held August 1-6, 2021. 
 
Lehigh University Summer Academy - Join a select group of students from around the world at Lehigh University Summer Academy. This unique pre-college program, on the campus of Lehigh University, is designed to help you achieve your full potential. With innovative, thought-provoking and enriching course work, combined with learning that extends beyond the traditional classroom, you’ll build your “tool belt” for success both in school and life. In addition, service-learning projects, field trips, and social events will be an exciting part of your program; we’ve got all of your interests covered. Most importantly, you’ll have fun, make meaningful connections and create friendships that will last a lifetime. Session 1: June 28-July 17, 2020 | Session 2: July 19-August 7, 2020  For Rising 6th-11th Grade Students
 
Loyola Marymount University Los Angeles 2019 Pre-College Summer Programs - Summer pre-college programs at LMU are an engaging opportunity for motivated high school students to get a sneak peek at college life through a unique experience designed to challenge students' critical and creative ways of thinking. The courses are transformative summer experiences that provide students with the opportunity to explore academic passions, evolve as individuals and discover what it truly means to have the heart of an LMU Lion. Programs include Environmental Science , Acting for the camera, Intro to comics and Graphic Novels ,Intro to Entrepreneurship  Global Sports and Entertainment (July 14-July 27), Impact of Social Movements (June 23 - July 6), Intro to Photojournalism (July 14-27), Beginning Screenwriting (June 23-July 6/July 14 -27), Mapping the U.S. One Baseball Stadium at a Time (July 14-27), Social Impact Filmmaking (June 23-July 19), Hollywood's Portrayal of the American West (June 23-July 6)
 
MIT Women's Technology Program (WTP)
http://wtp.mit.edu/
Deadline: January 15
The MIT Women's Technology Program is a rigorous four-week summer academic and residential experience where female high school students explore engineering through hands-on classes, labs, and team based projects the summer after 11th grade.
Criteria:  Females in grade 11 who love & excel at math and science
Program dates:  June 26 - July 23
Cost: FREE
 
MIT Summer Program
Deadline:  February 1
An information meeting will take place January 12 at 5pm. Register HERE
The Office of Engineering at MIT offers two great programs.  By submitting one application you are automatically considered for one of the two programs, you cannot choose to apply to a particular program.  The program is FREE but students must cover their transportation to and from MIT.

MIT Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC):  From July through January, students in this online program discuss research, receive admissions and financial aid advice, and attend webinars. They also complete online science and engineering projects that they present during a five-day conference on MIT’s campus. Learn more about  MOSTEC
 Aug 5 - 9 (on campus) or June 27 - December 22 (online)

National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Electrical Apprenticeship Program. The programs allow students to train and earn an income while going to school, eliminating the worry of student loan debt. These wages are a portion of the skilled wage rate that increases throughout the training program. The nearest training center is in Castroville, CA.
 
NYU Pre-College Summer program for high school students. Get a taste of college life by taking courses in New York City. 
Penn Engineering Summer Academy
Deadline:  February 28
https://esap.seas.upenn.edu/
Current 9th -11th graders can apply to experience a three-week Engineering Summer Academy at the University of Pennsylvania.  Students can earn credit in of six programs:  Biotechnology, Computer Graphics, Computer Science, Engineering, Nanotechnology or Robotics. Financial Aid is available.  Program dates:  July 7 - 27. 
 
 
 
Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS)               
Deadline:  February 26 (postmarked)
Open to 9th graders and a few 10th graders, who can make a three year commitment.  Students participate in a four-week summer course at Pomona College and attend monthly activities throughout the year. During the senior year, students get personalized assistance with the college and financial aid process.  Even though Orange County is not a target county, the program will accept applications from Segerstrom students and consider them for admission to the program.
Residential program dates:  June 20 - July 16
Virtual program dates:  June 20 - July 23      Cost: FREE 
 
Princeton University Summer Journalism Program - www.princeton.edu/sjp
Deadline: February 22
Program dates:  Mid-June thru early August                        Cost:  FREE
Ten day all expense paid summer program @ Princeton University
  • Current junior 3.5 GPA (unweighted out of 4.0)
  • Interest in journalism
  • Combined custodial income must not exceed $60,000 or if you qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch Program
 
QuestBridge COLLEGE PREP SCHOLARSHIP
Deadline: March 24  (application opens early February)
High achieving, low-income juniors are invited to apply for an opportunity to attend a rigorous one to four-week summer program at leading colleges and universities on full scholarships.  Students receive individual college admissions counseling, visit college campuses and eligible for other scholarships. On-line application available February 1.  A lengthy and competitive application but very rewarding experience, start early.
 
Summer Health Institute - Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital offers a 5-week intensive summer health institute. Students must be a high school junior or senior at the time of application. Students must commit to attending all days of the 5-week program - 8:30 - 3:30. Applications are available in the College & Career Center. The deadline for application from the referring teacher is Feb. 28. 
 
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Rising Star Summer Program - This challenging five-week program awards college credit to rising high school seniors who are ready for a university experience at SCAD Atlanta, SCAD Hong Kong or SCAD Savannah. Students enroll in two college-level classes and have the opportunity to build or enhance their portfolios. Whether attending in Atlanta, Hong Kong or Savannah, all SCAD Rising Star participants utilize university spaces — from classrooms and computer labs to studios and production suites — in the development and completion of class assignments. SCAD libraries, galleries, and other resources are also available. Students participating in the residential program live in a SCAD residence hall, and all students enjoy meals at a SCAD dining hall.
 
Seattle University PreCollege Programs. This summer, Seattle University is offering two Pre-College Programs for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. The Albers Summer Business Institute (social entrepreneurship) provides 3 college credits for students who complete the required coursework. Seattle University AI4ALL (criminal justice and artificial intelligence) provides 3 college credits for students who complete the required coursework.
 
 
The Smithsonian Latino Center - Young Ambassadors Program --- Returning Summer 2022
Deadline:
A national program for graduating high school seniors aimed at fostering the next generation of Latino leaders in the arts, sciences, and humanities via the Smithsonian Institution and its resources.  YAP is a college preparatory and leadership program encouraging participants to explore various academic and career opportunities through the lens of the Latino experience.  The program includes an intensive week-long interdisciplinary training seminar at the Smithsonian followed by a four-week paid internship in museums and cultural institutions in local communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.  Program covers all expenses for the one week program, student responsible for costs during the four-week internship but at the end of the five weeks will receive a $2,000 stipend.
 
 
Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program        
Deadline:  Not available due to COVID-19
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an eight-week program in which high school students from diverse backgrounds are invited to perform basic research with Stanford faculty and researchers. Open to current juniors or seniors, must be 16 years old or older by the start of the program (June 15, 2020, finishes August 6, 2020) and must be a U.S. Citizen or permanent Resident.  Student receive a $500 stipend at the end of the program.  Students must provide their own housing and transportation.
 
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies - allows students currently in grades 8–11 to apply to a single-subject intensive course selected from a wide range of disciplines, and benefit from small class size and academically themed residences. Stanford Summer Humanities Institute brings students in grades 10 and 11 together to explore the big questions at the heart of the humanities. Seminars are led by distinguished Stanford professors during this three-week residential program. Stanford AI4ALL invites students in 9th grade to apply to this three-week residential summer program. Participants learn about topics in AI, partake in ongoing research at Stanford, and receive mentorship from professors, graduate students, and industry professionals. Young women and students from underrepresented and/or low-income backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) students participate in a highly-selective program centered around lectures, guided research, and group problem-solving in advanced math topics. This four-week program is intended for an elite group of talented students in grades 10 and 11. Stanford Pre-Collegiate University-Level Online Math and Physics offers 13 courses throughout the year, including a summer term for high school students, grades 9–12. Students earn Stanford University Continuing Studies credit.
 
Smith College Summer Precollege Programs
Deadline:  March 1 (to be considered for financial aid)
Summer Precollege is open to academically talented girls who will enter grades 9, 10, 11 and 12.  The program is selective, very important to submit a strong application.  To be considered for financial aid, you must submit your application and financial aid application by March 1.  Five different programs throughout the summer:  1) College Admissions Workshop; 2) Creative Writing; 3) Science & Engineering; 4) Sustainable Futures:  Farming, Justice and the Environment; 5) Women, Gender & Representation.  Students will need to cover costs for travel to Smith. 
 
emBarc Summer Academy at UC Berkeley - embARC is a four week summer design program for rising Juniors and Seniors at UC Berkeley’s College of Environmental Design that brings together high school students from diverse backgrounds to explore architecture, urban design and sustainable city planning through integrated components: an Architecture + Urban Design Studio, a Sustainable City Planning Workshop, a Digital Design Workshop, an Environmental Design Conversation Series and a Community Build project. 
 
Experience UC Berkeley Program:  High School Students!
Deadline:  April 30, 2021
Experience Berkeley (EB) is a free program that assists Black, Latino, & Native American students in the completion of their UC application and insight questions. Program provides students with mentors, tools, and resources to develop a competitive application ultimately increasing chances for admission to UC Berkeley. Students are mentored by Black and Latino UC Berkeley undergraduates, who provide one-on-one support throughout the entire UC application process from June to November. Throughout the program students will have the opportunity to:
  • Meet UC Berkeley admission officers
  • Connect with UCB staff and students
  • Become familiar with UCB campus
  • Receive information on college life & scholarships
Criteria:  Black, Latino, Native American Juniors with 3.5 weighted gpa
Cost:  FREE        Program dates:  June 2021 - May 2022, you meet once a month virtually.
 
UC Davis Young Scholars Program - Participants in the 2019 Young Scholars Program will work one-on-one with research faculty and research groups in state-of-the-art laboratories for six weeks. Each student will work on an individual project and prepare a journal-quality paper and symposium presentation about their work. At the same time, each student will experience the climate and culture of living and working on a university campus. Open to all students regardless of citizenship or location. Participants must be 16 years old by the date the program begins, but not 18 years old before the date that the program ends.
 
UCI School of the Arts - Summer Academies Lite
Deadline: May 1
 
The Summer Academies LITE program is a modified version of the in-person Summer Academies in the Arts that focuses on college admissions preparation and professional development opportunities for experienced high school and transfer arts students in a virtual learning environment.  Courses are $99.
 
Dance:  July 12 - 16, 2021
Drama: July 26 - 30, 2021
 
UC Irvine ASPIRE - Deadline: March 1
Current 9th, 10th and 11th graders interested in engineering and computer science. ASPIRE is a two-week residential program at UC Irvine. You participate in classroom activities 5-6 hours a day, fun activities after class and live and eat at the university dorms. Great way to experience college and find out if engineering and computer science is for you! Full and partial scholarships available, must submit a separate scholarship application by March 1.  Apply early, spaces are limited.
Program dates: Session II (July 2-16), Session III (July 19-30), Session IV (August 2-13)
Critera:  3.0 unweighted GPA
 
UCI Cancer Research Institute - Youth Summer Science Fellow Program
Deadline: February 28 by 5pm
A six-week laboratory research at UC Irvine for high school juniors and seniors.  The program is FREE at no cost to the student.  Students earn community service hours and lab/work experience.  Students must have completed at minimum 1 year of Chemistry, 1 year of biology, and one of those needs to include lab experience.  Students may not be enrolled in summer school or other programs, vacations or conflicting obligations during the 6-week program.  Program takes place June 27 - August 6.
COSMOS Program at UCI -   COSMOS (The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science) is a 4-week program for talented high school students hosted by the University of California, Irvine.
 
UCI Expressive Robotics (Ages 12 - 17) --- NOT taking place Summer 2021
Unleash the power of S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education as you build a robotic structure that moves expressively! No prior coding, programming, robotics experience required.  Cost is $899 but there are full and partial scholarships available.  Spaces are limited so apply early and submit your scholarship application too!
 
 UCI LIFEvest Financial Literacy --- Waiting to hear if this program will be offered summer 2021
Deadline:  March 20
A week-long residential program at UCI for current 9th and 10th grade students that will learn how to build a Meaningful Life Plan by Creating Lasting Financial and Educational Goals. Program is FREE!  Reference code SAUSDSEGERSTROM in your application, for assistance see Ms. Huezo in the Higher Ed Center.
Program dates:  June 21-27 or July 12-18 or July 26-August 1, 2020
 
UCI Summer Premed Program --- Program website currently being updated, check back later.
Deadline:  Early March (program fills quickly, submit first week of March or before)
UCI’s Medical Education Office offers 4 great programs to high school students.  Programs focus to foster the interest of youth in healthcare and science innovation.  The three programs are:  
1) Summer Premed Program
2) Summer Research Program
3) Physician Shadowing Program
4) Online Research Program.  
 
Full and partial scholarships available.  View the scholarship information.  Students should be 15-18 years of age and have a minimum 3.5 weighted GPA.
Program dates:  Late June to early August
 
 
UCI Investments, Financial Planning and YOU
Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis, apply early (March 1) to qualify for scholarship
The online program is for highly motivated 9th-12th grade students who wish to gain a deep understanding of investments and financial planning. Students will create a personal wealth management plan.  Cost of program is $799.  If you require financial assistance explain in your essay why you are in need of a scholarship.  Program dates:  July 20 - 24 or Aug 5 - 9. 
 
UCI Urology Summer Surgery Program --- due to COVID-19 may not be available, check website.
Deadline:  April 15 for scholarship consideration 
UC Irvine's Summer Surgery Program is an exceptional opportunity for high school students to gain hands-on experience in the fields of surgery and medicine.  The program is aimed to inspire high school students to pursue their interest in medicine by exposing them to hands-on experiences across several fields of healthcare.
Criteria:  Must be 16 years old or older, 3.5+ unweighted GPA, respectful & mature
Program dates:  July 6 - 17 or July 20 - 31, 2020
Cost: $4,550 (there are TWO fully-funded scholarships offered)
 
UCLA Summer Sessions - UCLA Precollege Summer Institutes provide highly-motivated high school students  the opportunity to earn college credit while advancing their skill set in one area of study. During these one- to three-week concentrated programs, students experience lectures, hands-on learning, field trips, group projects, and other activities that provide an intensive and engrossing study of their chosen subject.  Qualified students attending grades 8th – 11th in Spring 2021 in the state of California are eligible for Summer Scholars Support, a need- and merit-based scholarship offered by the UCLA Summer Sessions Office. A limited number of full and partial scholarships are available to support enrollment in SCIP, academic courses, or a Precollege Summer Institute.
 
UCSB Summer Research Academies - Summer Research Academies (formerly Science & Engineering Research Academy) offer a dynamic, 4-week residential and commuter summer program that introduces qualified high school students to the research enterprise through project-based, directed research in STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences fields. Students will take a 4-unit university course where they choose and develop a research topic specific to the track they select, under the direction of an instructor who is conducting active research in that field.Students will develop academic and professional skills by presenting their research findings in a capstone seminar, networking with peers, and experiencing university life in a challenging environment. The lecture series - GRIT talks - will connect students to some of the best minds among the UC Santa Barbara research community who present on their ground-breaking research and innovative technology. 
 
UCSB Summer Research Mentorship Program -The Research Mentorship Program is a competitive, six-week summer program that engages qualified, high-achieving high school students from all over the world in interdisciplinary, hands-on, university-level research. Students will be paired up with a mentor (graduate student, postdoc, or faculty) and choose a research project from a large list of disciplines offered by the program each year. See website for additional details and for the application.
 
U Penn Summer Programs - two and three week programs offered in a variety of disciplines including arts, sciences and STEM.
U Penn Summer Programs: Penn Summer High School Programs welcome bright and ambitious high school students who want to experience Ivy League academics with leading faculty and stand out on college applications. With program options available for 2-, 3- or 6-week programs, high school students from around the world can experience summer with Penn.
  • Penn Summer Prep: Experience university level-academics in the 2-week, non-credit program
  • Penn Summer Academies: Dive deep into academic study for 3 intensive weeks in one of the non-credit academies
  • Pre-College Program: Take 6-week for-credit summer courses alongside Penn undergraduates
 
 
U Chicago Summer Session:  Discover the awesome course opportunities for high school students this summer with the University of Chicago. Within a supportive online community, students from all over the globe are exposed to diverse ideas in classes taught by world-class faculty and instructors. In their classes, students are given the chance to take intellectual risks, dive more deeply into subject matter, and discuss questions that go beyond the realm of their high school curriculum.
Learn more about the 2021 Summer Session via our virtual Information Sessions. Register in advance to join us on one of the following sessions:
  • Register here: Saturday, February 6, 2021 - 11:00am Central US time
  • Register here: Friday, March 5, 2021 - 7:00pm Central US time
U Chicago Summer Immersion Program - Explore the world of economics, conduct meaningful research, analyze 52-million-year-old fossils, and enjoy the excitement of college life this summer at U Chicago. Rising high school seniors can challenge themselves by taking undergraduate courses alongside UChicago and visiting undergraduate students. Experience UChicago's distinctively rigorous and engaging classroom environment with intellectual peers from around the world. Choose from six programs and a variety of start dates. See website for full details.
 
University of Notre Dame Pre-College Summer Programs - University of Notre Dame pre-college programs offer exceptional students the opportunity to delve into the college experience, from stimulating seminars to residence hall life. Summer Scholars program (June 22 - July 6, 2019) is a program for rising high school juniors and seniors that introduces students to college-level academics in fields ranging from the liberal and fine arts to the sciences and business. Leadership Seminars (July 13-July 24) is an all-expenses-paid program for advanced rising high school seniors who wish to hone their critical thinking and expressive skills. Seminars include the ethics of science, political science and peace studies, and arts and culture. The Study Abroad experience provides the rich history and culture of iconic European locales through a partnership with Notre Dame Global Gateways and is guided by ND Faculty. Rome - June 1-15, Ireland, July 13-27. See the website for additional information.
 
University of Rochester Summer Programs -The University of Rochester’s Pre-College Programs offer current high school students a wide range of academic programs ranging from one to six weeks, with options to live on campus during the summer and experience life in a residence hall, or as a commuter with a choice of a full- or half-day classes. Our Intensive Studies programs focus on one area of study that is reflective of Rochester’s most popular majors and gives students the opportunity to explore different paths within the subject matter. Credit Courses are undergraduate classes offered through the University of Rochester semester schedule. Students taking credit courses will be in classes with other University students to earn college credit. The Non-Credit Courses will give students the opportunity to choose among subject areas they are passionate about. These hands-on, smaller class size workshop type academic offerings are available in a variety of discipline areas.
 
 
 
U.S. Military Academy Summer Leaders Experience
Deadline:  March 15 (on-line app only)
A concentrated week of academic, athletic, military, and social experiences at West Point in New York.  Current JUNIORS should be in the top fifth of their class, college-bound, strong PSAT scores and demonstrated leadership and earned honors in athletic or extracurricular activities.
Program dates:  May 29 - June 4 or June 5 - 11
Cost:  $400 plus transportation costs to and from West Point
 
USC Bovard Scholars
The summer program requires three weeks of full-time residency on the USC campus — including weekends.  The program doesn’t end after three weeks. During your senior year you will work with your admissions coach to receive support and feedback as questions arise, throughout the application and decision-making process. Juniors in HS with a 4.0 weighted, enrolled in Algebra II or higher math course. Demonstrates financial aid and have taken AP courses.
Program dates:  July 11 - July 31
Cost: FREE
 
Washinton University St. Louis Summer Experiences - High School Summer Scholars program - Three sessions (June 9 - July 13), (July 14 -Aug. 16th) and (June 9 - Aug. 3). In the High School Summer Scholars Program, students have the opportunity to enroll in courses for credit and study alongside undergraduates. Students select from a broad range of stimulating introductory courses in the humanities, math, sciences, and social sciences. Scholars live on campus in residence halls. In addition to coursework, students participate in college - readiness seminars, academic support groups, and a variety of weekend and evening social events. Need-based scholarship assistance is available. See the website for additional information and applications. 
 
Yale Young Global Scholars Program - Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) is a summer academic enrichment and leadership program for outstanding high school students from around the world. Each summer, students from over 100 countries participate in one of nine interdisciplinary sessions and immerse themselves in a global learning community. (June 16-29) (July 7-20), and (July 28-Aug.10). See website for further information and application instructions.
 
 
College Access Programs
There are several programs here at San Fernando HS that are available to students to help them on their pathway to college. Most of these programs require an application to participate, but most workshops and presentations are open to all students.
 
Project Grad Los Angeles
Location: Room 117, 503, 214, 612
Phone: (818) 898-8721
Project Grad provides one-on-one advising, tutoring, test prep, summer institutes, college awareness events, parent workshops, college visits and a peer leadership program.
 
 
CSUN Educational Talent Search (ETS)
Location: College Center (TBD)
Contact: Mary Price
CSUN Educational Talent Search is open to students in Grades 9-12 and offers college tours, academic counseling, career exploration, assistance with college and financial aid applications and study/life skills workshops.
 
UCLA Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP)
Location: College Center (TBD)
Contact: Stefanie Espinoza
UCLA Early Academic Outreach Program provides services and opportunities directly to students and parents to increase the academic competitiveness of students so they are college ready and admissible to most selective colleges upon high school graduation by successfully completing the UC A-G requirements and college entrance exams.
 
Upward Bound Pacoima
Location: College Center (TBD)
Contact: Meliza Melendrez
Email: ubsanfernando@gmail.com
Upward Bound offers a summer program, after school tutoring, Saturday classes, application/financial aid workshops, college tours, career planning and parent workshops. 9th and 10th grade students are welcome to apply.
 
PUENTE Program
Location: Room 020
Contact: Lorraine Hernandez, PUENTE Counselor
The PUENTE Project is a national award-winning program that for more than 30 years has improved the college-going rate of tens of thousands of California's educationally underrepresented students. Its mission is to increase the number of educationally disadvantaged students who enroll in four-year colleges and universities, earn college degrees and return to the community as mentors and leaders to future generations. The program is interdisciplinary in approach, with writing, counseling and mentoring components.
 
 
UCSC Gear Up
 
 
 
 
 
Career Exploration
CAREER EXPLORATION RESOURCES
Road Trip Nation - Check out hundreds of videos where professionals of every kind address honest questions about their struggles, successes, and how they figured out the age-old dilemma, “What should I do with my life?”
 
O*Net - Detailed descriptions of the world of work for use by job seekers, workforce development and HR professionals, students, researchers, and more!

Gallup Strengths Center -
Take the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment and discover your top 5 strengths. Learn how your "signature strengths" help you excel, and begin your path to better performance and higher engagement. Intended as an introduction to strengths, this solution is ideal for people who want a quick, focused approach to strengths-based development.

California Reality Check -  Forming a budget is one of the most important parts of financial success. As you first enter the workforce, or even if you switch jobs, knowing how much money you will have available to spend on different aspects of your life will help you avoid debt and possibly even save some money for a rainy day.
 
Occupational Outlook Handbook -  The OOH can help you find career information on duties, education, training, pay, and outlook for hundreds of occupations
 
My Plan - MyPlan.com helps students and professionals plan more fulfilling lives by making well-informed decisions about their education and careers.
 
Live Career - Find FREE Resume templates at Quintessential Careers along with a large number of resources, tools, and articles to assist you in achieving your career and educational goals.
 
Career One-Stop- Career assessment and Job Search
 
Zip Recruiter- Find jobs, internship or scholarships in your local area

Did you think Math & Science were never for you? Think again! Explore some jobs that might have more to do with Math & Science than you thought based on your hobbies and skills.
 
Do you feel totally lost about what job or career you would like to pursue? This site is a great place to start!
 
Guaranteed Admission Requirements
 
SUHSD Partnerships
 
The following Universities have guaranteed admissions partnership with Redlands USD (https://www.redlandsusd.net/Page/14221):
  • Of Redlands
Contact: Jamie Groff, Senior Associate Director of Admissions
Phone: 909.748.8161
 
  • of LaVerne
Contact: Brent Baier, Assistant Director of Admissions
Phone: 909.448.4030
 
Grand Canyon U.
Contact: Edana Garrett, University Admissions Counselor
Phone: 909.953.5177
 
Azusa Pacific U. (https://www.apu.edu/)
 
Cal Baptist U. (https://calbaptist.edu/)
 
Possible Universities in N CA:
 
Grand Canyon U
Santa Clara U
Golden Gate U
  • of San Francisco
Notre Dame de Namur
 
Dominican U
  • of the Pacific
Fresno Pacific
Saint Marys college of CA
 
Pre College/Scholarship Programs
 
QuestBridge is a non-profit program that links bright, motivated low-income students with educational and scholarship opportunities at some of the nation's best colleges. Most recipients rank in the top 5% - 10% of their graduating class and come from households earning less than $60,000 annually. If you come from a household earning more than this amount but still feel that you have faced economic hardship, there is room on the application to explain your situation.  QuestBridge is the provider of the National College Match Program and the College Prep Scholarship.

  • National College Match helps outstanding low-income high school seniors gain admission and full four-year scholarships to some of the national's most selective colleges.  Students are encouraged to begin their application the summer before senior year as it is a very competitive application.  Annual deadline is:  September 27th.
  • College Prep Scholarship provides more than 1,000 awards that equip outstanding low-income high school juniors with the knowledge necessary to compete for admission to leading colleges.  Selected juniors will be awarded one or more of the following opportunities:  Full scholarships for summer programs, individualized college admissions counseling through QuestBridge staff, College Admissions Conference invitations, All-expense paid campus visits, Quest for Excellence Awards.  Juniors should begin working on the application during the months of December or January.  Annual deadline is:  March 29th.
 
 
 
 
Special Populations
 
 
Special Education Students
 
Homeless Students
 
Foster Students
 
Guardian Scholars (hartnell)
 
Independent learning program (ILP)