College Corner

• Make a list of the schools you'll be applying to.
• Determine how to apply to that school and create an account 
  • Do they use Common App, SENDedu, Coalition or another application site?
  • Do they use their own internal application on their website?
• Make note of each school's application deadline. Most schools have an early deadline and a regular deadline. Early deadlines typically give you the best shot at acceptance and most school-based scholarship opportunities require you to submit your application by the early deadline.
• Determine if you need to submit an ACT or SAT score. Most schools are still test-optional, however there could be contingencies around that so make sure you do your research. For example, most schools will want your scores if you are applying for scholarships.
• Make a list of teachers to request letters of recommendation from. It is courtesy to request a letter from a teacher in-person at least two weeks prior to when you need it. 

While you're applying

• Log into MajorClarity and connect your Common App account
• If you are applying to schools outside of Common App, you must add those manually.
• Video: Student Application Center
• Resource Center: Common App and Transcripts
• If you are using NC College Connect, do not list these schools in MajorClarity. 
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After submitting application

• Breathe a sigh of relief that you're done with the application! 
• Follow up on any recommendation letters, if necessary.
• When you are accepted to a college they will provide you with a financial aid package at some point. This can include scholarships, grants, work studies, and loans. We encourage families to wait until all financial aid packages have been received so you can compare what each school is offering.
• Keep applying for scholarships

NC College Connect

The NC College Connect program offers North Carolina public high school students with a weighted GPA of 2.8 and above who meet NC College Connect requirements direct admission to select colleges and universities participating in the NC College Connect program.

Please visit the NC College Connect website for more information and FAQs. You can also contact your child's counselor with questions.

Financial Aid

CFNC Financial Aid YouTube page

 

Residency Determination Service (RDS)

RDS is a new system that North Carolina is using to determine residency. Below are some forms that may be helpful in navigating RDS

RDS Basics for High School Students

Navigating FAFSA and RDS Infographic

RDS Reconsideration and Appeals Fact Sheet

RDS Recover Username/Reset Password

Process to Change Errors in Profile