• After you have done the research and you have your REACH, TARGET, SAFETY & FINANCIAL SAFETY schools chosen, you now have to decide HOW you are going to apply. [Below is a great example graphic on the differences of each]

    Some schools have only 1 preferred university application, while others may use alternative applicaitons such as the  COMMON APPLICATION or the COALITION APPLICATION

    Each application is different in that the essays have different topics and the information needed is presented in a unique way. 

    Please REACH OUT TO YOUR COUNSELOR or Ms. Amador-Zapata (college counselor) BEFORE you begin applying. 

    College Board College Application Checklist

    Reach Safety Schools

     

    Sending ACT & SAT scores

    Please be aware that sending scores can take 4-6 weeks for colleges to receive. If not done early enough, you may miss your college deadline to submit materials. ALL MATERIALS (application, transcript, recommendation letters, ACT/SAT scores) need to arrive before the college application deadline. 

    Resume/School Activities
    Example of a Resume

    Sending School Report, Midyear Report, or Letters of Recommendation

    Please communicate FREQUENTLY and CLEARLY what materials you need from your counselor to be sent. You will need to input your counselor's email in order for them to be able to work on their portion of the application. Be as accurate as possible when entering their contact information. 

    Grace Alderson grace.alderson@d214.org

    Arturo Fuentes arturo.fuentes@d214.org

    Allison Kulla allison.kulla@d214.org

    Michael O'Keeffe michael.okeeffe@d214.org

    Brandi Rojas brandi.rojas@d214.org

    Robert Sochowski robert.sochowsk@d214.org

    Joanne Amador-Zapata joanne.amador@d214.org

    Unique opportunities for First generation and/or low-income students

    The College Greenlight Scholars Application is a new way for low-income and first-generation students to apply to college. Developed with help from leaders in the college access community, Greenlight Scholars seeks to level the playing field for students. Start applying to nearly 30 colleges today, click here.

    No Application Fees-The Greenlight Scholars application is free with no fee waivers required.
    Share Your Unique Story-Students are able to go beyond grades and test scores to share a more complete picture of their academics, skills, experiences, and potential.
    Other opportunities include:

    Eastern Illinois University - Gateway Program
    Northern Illinois University - Chance Program

    Additional Resources

    Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) 

    Prepare, Research, Apply, Decide Guide for families