Going to College/University
Getting ready for college or university is an exciting journey that opens the door to new opportunities. Whether you're exploring programs, comparing schools, or planning for financial aid, having the right information is key. Below, you’ll find resources to guide your research, help you understand the application process, and make informed decisions about your future education and career path.
Community College
Community colleges offer affordable, accessible education with programs designed to help students earn an associate degree, complete general education requirements, or gain workforce-ready skills. Below, explore the degree options available to help you achieve your academic and career goals.
- Certificate Programs: Shorter programs focused on skill-building for specific careers.
- Associate Degree: Ideal for career entry or to transfer to a four-year program.
- 2+2 Transfer Programs: Start your degree at community college, then transfer to complete a bachelor’s at a partnering university.
For more information or guidance please reach out to your counselor.
Applications
Most community colleges have an easy-to-use online application process. While each college’s website may look a little different, you’ll usually find an "Apply" button that guides you through the steps. You’ll be asked for basic information such as your name, address, citizenship, residency, high school details, and your intended major. They’ll also ask about your goals—whether you want to earn an Associate's degree, complete a certificate, gain new skills, transfer to a 4-year university, or start working. The application will also ask if you’re planning to apply for financial aid. Once everything is filled out, simply sign electronically and click submit!
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarship Opportunities: Apply for various scholarships to help fund your studies. Check out our scholarships page to see opportunities to help fund your education.
Financial Aid: Click here to apply for FAFSA.
Click here for Financial Aid Resources.
Academic Advising
AZTransfer is a valuable resource for Arizona students planning to transfer between colleges and universities in the state. It provides tools to explore transfer pathways, check course equivalencies, and ensure your credits align with your academic goals.
Meet with a College Advisor: Schedule an appointment to plan your course selection based on your goals.
Public In-State University
Arizona is home to three outstanding public universities: Arizona State University (ASU), Northern Arizona University (NAU), and The University of Arizona (UofA). These institutions offer a wide range of degree programs, vibrant campus communities, and opportunities to achieve your academic and career goals. Here is information to get you started.
For more information or guidance please reach out to your counselor.
Checklist
1. Research
- Research and verify application deadlines & admission requirements
- Research the universities and programs of interest
2. Complete the Application & Submit Supporting Documents
- Create an account on the university’s application portal
- List high school and any dual enrollment or college credits.
- Select the desired major/program.
- Send official ACT/SAT scores (if required or preferred).
- Pay the non-refundable application fee online (fee waivers may be available for eligible students, see your counselor for more information).
3. Apply for Financial Aid
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible.
- Research Scholarships and submit applications for relevant opportunities.
- More information about Scholarships can be found here.
4. Monitor Application Status
- Check the application portal regularly for updates or additional requests.
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional documentation or information.
5. After Acceptance
- Confirm acceptance and submit an enrollment deposit (if required)
- Sign up for housing (if planning to live on campus)
- Register for orientation
- Request official transcripts from Parchment after graduating high school to send to the university.
- Key Tip: Notify other universities of your decision to decline their offers.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarship Opportunities: Apply for various scholarships to help fund your studies. Check out our scholarships page to see opportunities to help fund your education.
Financial Aid: Click here to apply for FAFSA.
Click here for Financial Aid Resources.
NCAA
Student-athletes who are interested in playing college sports at NCAA Division I or II schools can get information here.
AZTransfer
AZTransfer is a valuable resource for Arizona students planning to transfer between colleges and universities in the state. It provides tools to explore transfer pathways, check course equivalencies, and ensure your credits align with your academic goals.
Out-of-State/Private University
When applying to out-of-state or private universities, it’s important to know that each institution has its own set of requirements and deadlines. Take time to research application deadlines, required courses and exams, fees, and whether interviews, letters of reference, or a personal essay are necessary. These details can vary greatly between schools, so be sure to check each university’s specific guidelines.
For more information or guidance please reach out to your counselor.
Checklist
1. Research Universities
- What to Do: Create a list of potential universities based on academic programs, location, campus culture, and tuition costs.
- Resources:
- BigFuture by College Board (to assist with choosing degree and career options)
- University websites for course catalogs and admission requirements.
2. Understand Admission Requirements
- What to Do: Research admission requirements for each university. These could include GPA, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters. Pay attention to out-of-state admission statistics; some universities may have stricter requirements for non-resident applicants.
- Resources:
- Common App (for application requirements and deadlines)
- Major Clarity (explore colleges and postsecondary opportunities)
3. Budget and Financial Planning
- What to Do: Consider out-of-state tuition costs, living expenses, and potential financial aid or scholarships. Out-of-state and private tuition is often higher than in-state tuition.
- Financial Aid Resources:
- FAFSA (for federal student aid)
- Scholarships Page
- Scholarships.com
- Western Undergraduate Exchange
4. Prepare Application Materials
- Below is a list of type of materials you might need, but carefully read through the application requirements:
- Transcripts: Request transcripts from Parchment (account required).
- Test Scores: Send directly from testing agencies (if required).
- Personal Essay/Statement: Tailor essays to the university and showcase your individuality.
- Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or mentors well in advance.
- Resume (Optional): Highlight extracurriculars, leadership roles, and work experience.
- Resources:
- Paper.co (for writing feedback)
- MajorClarity.com for resume and collecting letters of recommendations
- College Board (SAT score submission)
- ACT.org (ACT score submission)
5. Apply
- What to Do: Complete applications through platforms like Common App, Coalition App, or individual university portals.
- Key Tip: Pay attention to deadlines for early decision, early action, and regular decision.
- Resources:
6. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships
- What to Do: Fill out the FAFSA and search for merit-based or need-based scholarships specific to out-of-state students.
- Resources:
- Scholarships Page
- FastWeb
- State university financial aid offices (e.g., University of Michigan's out-of-state scholarships)
- Scholarships.com
- FAFSA (for federal student aid)
7. Plan Campus Visits (Optional)
- What to Do: If possible, visit the campus to experience its environment and meet with admissions counselors. Virtual tours can also be helpful.
- Resources:
- University websites for virtual and in-person tour options
- CampusTours
- Appily
8. Monitor Application Status
- What to Do: After submitting your application, regularly check your portal or email for updates on application status, missing documents, or interview requests.
- Please notify your counselor of all schools you have been accepted to and scholarships you have received.
- Resources:
- Individual university portals (for updates and next steps)
9. Make Your Decision
- What to Do: After receiving acceptance letters, compare financial aid packages, campus offerings, and program strengths, accept the offer from your top choice before the deadline (typically May 1 for regular decision).
- Request official transcripts from Parchment after graduating high school to send to the university.
- Key Tip: Notify other universities of your decision to decline their offers.