PSAT day: Saturday, October 26, 2024- 8-11 am

• Saturday will be the only day for PSAT test. We will not be offering any other days.
• ECR students only.  We will not be testing anyone who does not attend ECR.
• The test will be free for ECR students who signs up.

Sign ups will be available on August 19 to September 6:  Sign up HERE  

In order to sign up, student must go through their ECR SSO.  Parents/guardians cannot sign a student up through their email. 

Last day for accommodations requests for the October PSAT/SAT would be August 19, 2024.  All accommodation requests must be approved by College Board regardless if you have an IEP or 504.  Please talk to your counselor if you need to get that process started.  

 

In order to take the PSAT, students will have to download BLUEBOOK.  

FAQs

How will the PSAT be administered this year?

The PSAT will be digital this year, meaning you will take the test on your laptop. You will need to bring your computer to the Saturday PSAT testing day.  This is not a virtual test. This will be an in person test on October 26, 2024

What is the PSAT?

Known as the Preliminary SAT, PAT is a preparatory version of the SAT exam. The test is given once a year. During your junior year, if you earn a high score on the PSAT, you could qualify to receive a National Merit Scholarship.  PSATs can be taken by 9-11th graders only.  12th graders do not take the PSAT

Why take the PSAT?

Power Up Potential:

The PSAT/NMSQT® (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is given to 10th- or 11th-grade students. As part of the SAT® Suite of Assessments, it is designed to help prepare students for the SAT, college, and careers. Historically, students who took the PSAT/NMSQT scored higher on the SAT, on average, than those who didn’t take the test. 

National Merit Scholarship Corporation

PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade may meet requirements to enter the National Merit® Scholarship Program, an academic competition for recognition and scholarships conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The scholarship partners also use the PSAT/NMSQT to find students qualified to apply for their programs. In addition, the BigFuture Scholarships program provides a simple path to college with the chance to earn$40,000 and $500 scholarships for each step taken. At least half of the scholarships – more than $1.5 million – will be awarded to students whose families earn less than $60,000 per year.  

How do I prepare for the PSAT Test?

College Board has free tests for you to prepare https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt/preparing

Please click here to see the Student Guide to the PSAT

 

How is the test structured?

https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt/whats-on-the-test

 

What if I need accommodations for testing?

Please read the following information and return the attached form if you have not already requested accommodations from the College Board for your students 504 plan. Students with a documented disability who intend to take the PSAT/NMSQT, SAT, ACT and/or AP tests may be eligible to receive accommodations. To receive accommodations on the PSAT/NMSQT, SAT and/or AP tests, you must apply for and receive College Board approval. To receive accommodations on the ACT, you must complete a separate form provided through ACT (www.actstudent.org).    

Please remember that an approval process may take up to 7-8 weeks. Therefore request accommodations as soon as possible.

Students and parents must apply for these accommodations by following these steps:

 You may request accommodations online by going to 

https://accommodations.collegeboard.org/request-accommodations/request

 Obtain a PARENT CONSENT FORM available online at  https://accommodations.collegeboard.org/request-accommodations/request/forms for College Board testing.

 Complete the consent form and bring it to Mr. Perry with an up-to-date, detailed letter from a medical doctor stating the medical reason for the request. This letter must be on the doctor’s official letterhead and signed by the doctor. A letter from a psychologist will not be accepted. Please note that this process may take a long time since Mr. Perry must assemble the necessary documentation. 

You will be notified by the College Board or ACT if your student has been approved for accommodations, as well as which accommodations have been approved. Mr. Perry will be able to assist you in answering any questions and/or completing the appropriate forms. You may call him at 818-595-7562 or you may email him at s.perry@ecrchs.net

*Please understand that it is your responsibility to reach out to the college board or Mr. Perry to see if you qualify for any testing accommodations. Please sign and return the attached form to the Counseling Office #2, a copy will be provided upon return.   

The following site provides more information for the upcoming PSAT/NMSQT.

 

Last day for accommodations requests for the October PSAT/SAT would be August 19, 2024.

**If you have already applied before as an El Camino Student, you do not need to resubmit a form unless you have had any changes to medical records or your 504 plans which may result in changes to the college board accommodations.

 

WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP: 

COLLEGE WORKSHOPS FOR CLASS OF 2025

How do I sign up?

• To sign up, seniors can pick up an excuse slip from the College & Career Center.  

• Your teacher must sign the form before you attend a workshop.  

• Workshops will be held during periods 1, 2, 3 or 4.  

 

DATES WORKSHOPS

September 4, 2024	What do I need to know to get started on the college application & letter of recommendation. What is the Common Application?
September 11, 2024	How to write an effective college essay.  How to start the UC Personal Insight Questions
September 18, 2024	Everything I need to know about the UC application: Helpful tips
September 25, 2024	Please sign up to meet with Mrs. Stern:  Meeting with Mrs. Stern
October 2, 2024	CSU application: Helpful tips
October 9, 2024	How to write an effective college essay.  How to start the UC Personal Insight Questions
October 16, 2024	UC & CSU Application tips: Let’s get started.  Please bring your computer
October 30, 2024	Please sign up to meet with Mrs. Stern:  Meeting with Mrs. Stern
November 6, 2024	All Application Workshop*
November 13, 2024	All Application Workshop*
November 20, 2024	All Application Workshop*

* For Application Workshops, please bring your laptop 

 

 

 

 

Local Events for Seniors

 

CSU College Night: Registration information pending
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Pasadena Convention Center
300 E. Green Street
Pasadena, CA 91101
Parking: TBA

 

 

 

Files

• 12th grade application checklist Fall
• 12th grade Presentation
• Applying to College 101 Workbook
• ECR Opt-Out Fillable Form for the FAFSA and CADAA
• Fall-2024-presenting-yourself-freshman
• Freshman PIQ 2024
• Pierce Concurrent Enrollment Checklist - Updated Aug 23
• Recommendation Packet 2023-2024
• Tips for the Common Application ECRCHS 2024

 

ECRCHS Forms

• College Planning checklist for Seniors from ACT

• 12th Grade College Preparation Checklist from Federal Student Aid

• When to take the exam by College Board

 

IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO APPLY TO A FOUR YEAR COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

UC APPLICATION

• Opens August 1 and due December 2
• https://apply.universityofcalifornia.edu
• Personal Insight Questions Freshman Guide: Please see below 
• See UC Application Tips and Helpful Guide below

CSU application
 

• Opens October 1; Due November 30
• https://www.calstate.edu/apply

 

Private and Out-of-States Colleges- Common application

• Check Common Application and must link to Naviance and waive your rights (FERPA)
• Application opened August 1
• Deadlines vary from school to school https://www.commonapp.org
• You need a letter of recommendation from college counselors or school report needs to be submitted by college counselors
• You must match your Naviance account with your Common App account!
• You must waive your rights (FERPA)
• See Tips and Helpful Guide below

please watch the video to see how to link your Naviance account with Common Application

How to link your Naviance Account with Common Application: click here - Loom Video

How to match your Common App & Naviance -  Watch Video

____________________________________________________

If you are going to Community College:

 

Pierce College Application

• Pierce application will open as early as October or as late as February.. Everyone can apply.
• http://www.piercecollege.edu/admissions/Applyonline.asp

Must complete the FAFSA or Dream Act
Complete the Pierce Promise program form

• For more information about how to get two years free with the Promise Program go to https://www.piercecollege.edu/promise.  You must file a FAFSA or Dream Act to qualify for the free tuition. 

 

___________________________________________________________

WHEN YOU FILE FOR FINANCIAL AID: THE FAFSA/DREAM ACT

Create a FSA ID

• Whether you are a student or parent you'll need to create your own FSA ID account.  
• Go to FSA ID Log in
• FAFSA/Dream Act opens tentatively opens in December. You are filing for 2026-2027 school year. 
• Gather parent basic information and tax information
• Know the schools you are applying to because they must be listed when you file

 

___________________________________________________________

GENERAL FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION for seniors

FAFSA- Financial Aid information

• File the FAFSA or the CA Dream Act- Opens December 1
• Everyone including those interested in the Promise program needs to submit an application
• To complete the CA Dream Act, go https:/dream.csac.ca.gov
• To complete FAFSA application, go to https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
• After a week, create a WebGrant account to keep track of your Cal Grant awards. Create the account at mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov

If you are not planning to file the FAFSA or Dream Act you must opt out of it by filling out the Google form below: 

FAFSA OPT out Google Form

EL CAMINO REAL CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL

Fall College Knowledge Night 

Thursday, September 26, 2024

6:00pm-7:00 pm
Virtual Event Through TEAMS
Presentation URL: Will be provided later

To qualify for reduced AP testing, you need to apply and qualify for free and reduced lunch program.  Please apply by using this QR code.

 

 

• If students would like accommodations for AP exams, they must apply and be approved
  • Having a 504 or IEP does not guarantee accommodations
• Directions to request for accommodations
  • You may request college board accommodations, and a parent consent form, by going online to www.collegeboard.org
  • Complete the consent form and bring it to Mr. Perry with an up-to-date, detailed letter from a medical doctor stating the medical reason for the request.  This letter must be on the doctor’s official letterhead and signed by the doctor.  A letter from a psychologist will not be accepted.   Please note that this process may take a long time since Mr. Perry (s.perry@ecrchs.net) must assemble the necessary documentation.

 

Traditional Rate: $103 includes processing fees
AP Seminar or AP Research: $147
Free and Reduced Lunch Program Rate: $5
Late fee: $40 per exam (purchased after October 31; no additional purchase orders after March 15)

You must be on the free and reduced lunch program (applied through an application) to receive the reduced rate.  Please apply ASAP

NO REFUNDS WILL BE PROVIDED FOR PURCHASED AP EXAMS!!!

YOU MUST BE ENROLLED IN YOUR AP CLASSROOM(S) FOR YOUR EXAM TO BE ORDERED. This means that you have to create an account on College Board.  If you are taking an AP test for a class you are not enrolled in, then you must see the AP Coordinator for the AP online code to add. Without this step, we cannot order a test for you.  Please contact your teachers if you are not in their AP classroom on College Board   Purchasing exams were between October 1-31, 2024.  NO REFUNDS WILL BE PROVIDED FOR PURCHASED AP EXAMS!!!

Calculator policy for AP testing

AP Terms and Conditions you must agree to

What to bring on the day of the exam

AP Credit Policy Search

Week 1	Morning 8 a.m. Local Time	Afternoon 12 p.m. Local Time
Monday, May 5, 2025	Biology Latin	European History Microeconomics
Tuesday, May 6, 2025	Chemistry Human Geography	United States Government and Politics
Wednesday, May 7, 2025	English Literature and Composition	Comparative Government and Politics Computer Science A
Thursday, May 8, 2025	African American Studies Statistics	Japanese Language and Culture World History: Modern
Friday, May 9, 2025	Italian  Language and Culture  United States History	Chinese Language and Culture Macroeconomics
Art and Design: Friday, May 9, 2025 (8 p.m. ET), is the deadline for AP Art and Design students to submit their three portfolio components as final in the AP Digital Portfolio.

 

Week 2	Morning 8 a.m. Local Time	Afternoon 12 p.m. Local Time
Monday, May 12, 2025	Calculus AB Calculus BC	Music Theory Seminar
Tuesday, May 13, 2025	French Language and Culture Precalculus	Environmental Science Physics 2: Algebra-Based
Wednesday, May 14, 2025	English Language and Composition German Language and Culture	Physics C: Mechanics
Thursday, May 15, 2025	Art History Spanish Language and Culture	Computer Science Principles Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
Friday, May 16, 2025	Physics 1: Algebra-Based Spanish Literature and Culture	Psychology

• I can’t remember my login credentials to get into my account

  • Use recovery system through College Board

  • Call Helpline at 888-225-5427

• I have multiple accounts and now I can’t get into my account

  • You cannot have more than one account

  • Contact College Board hotline directly so they can sync account information

• What if am I taking an AP exam, but not in the class

  • Please see Mr. Graham or Mrs. Yi so they can create a test only section for on College Board

  • You must be in the system so an exam can be ordered for you

• What is the point of taking an AP class and exam?

  • Colleges look for students taking rigorous courses at their high school

  • Passing the AP exam, gives students college credit and may even eliminate the introductory class they would have to take in college

 

ECR GPA (Total GPA): This weighted GPA is important because it is used to establish class rank that is reported to private and some public out-of- state colleges.

• Basics:
  • A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, Fail=0
  • A=5, B=4, C=3, D=0 Fail=0 (AP classes only)
• What’s Included:
  • All classes taken 9th, 10th, 11th, & first half of 12th grades.
• Weighting:
  • Only AP classes; no honors courses
• Method of Computing:
  • Compute the un-weighted GPA including all classes even those that have been repeated. For AP classes only, use A=5, B=4, C=3

UC/CSU GPA: This weighted GPA is used by UC and CSU to establish eligibility and admissions for UC and CSU schools

• Basics:
  • A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, Fail=0 (regular classes)
  • A=5, B=4, C=3, D=0, Fail=0 (UC approved Honors, AP, & college classes)
• What’s Included:
  • Only academic (A-G) classes taken after the 9th grade-11th grades.
• Weighting:
  • UC approved Honors, AP, and college level classes in grades 10 & 11 receive an extra point per semester
• Method of Computing:
  • If a class has been repeated after a mark of “D” or Fail”, the second grade is used. Courses may be repeated only once. Students may earn up to eight semesters of honors/AP points. No more than four extra points (2 honors/AP classes) can be used in 10th grade.

What approved honors courses get an extra point on the UC/CSU GPA

The following courses receive an extra weighted point towards GPA as well as courses that are considered AP level:

• Honors U.S. History
• Honors American Lit. Comp.
• Honors Contemporary Comp.
• Honors Math Analysis
• Multi variable Calculus 
• Honors Chemistry
• Honors Physics
• Honors Physiology
• Honors Jazz Band
• Honors Vocal Ensemble 
• Please refer to the UC Articulation website to double check which courses can give you an extra point

Grade Point Average

• The GPA calculation will include only those grades earned in the “A-G” subject courses taken during the 10th and 11th grades of high school. Grades earned for courses completed in 9th grade and 12th grade are not counted in the GPA. 

• Honor Points: both the UC and CSU will award honors points in calculating the GPA for up to eight semesters of UC approved honors level and AP courses taken in 10th and 11th grades. The University limits the amount of UC certified honors credit student may receive for work completed in 10th grade to no more than four semesters. And not all honors classes will receive the extra points. To see which Honors classes earn an extra GPA point, click here.

Info on Repeating Classes

UC/CSU GPA: If the same identical course (level and title of the course) is repeated, the higher grade will be calculated in the GPA. If the course is repeated but different levels such as Honors/AP is retaken at a regular level, you must include both grades in your GPA.

ECR GPA: The repeated grade does not replace the lower grade. Every class you take is calculated into your GPA. Making up a “C” grade in a class will not be posted on the ECR transcript.

Info on College Classes: College classes will be added to your high school transcript only if you need the credit to graduate from high school or the class fulfills a high school graduation requirement. You will not get an extra point on the ECR GPA. If the college classes do not go on your high school transcript, you can still report the classes on your application (to the UC/CSU schools)

ECRCHS Forms

• UC/CSU Comparison Chart
• UC Doorways which includes approved Honors courses

 

College Admissions:

To be eligible for admission to a four-year university, students must meet subject requirements. These requirements represent the minimum academic standards for eligibility. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirement does not guarantee admission.

Subject Requirements (A-G):

Please note that UC’s recommend or require students to complete above and beyond the minimum requirements for admissions.

• (A) 2 Years of Social Studies (World History, U.S. History, Government)
• (B) 4 Years of English

• (C) 3 Years of Math (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II)

4 years recommended

• (D) 2 Years of Lab Science (Biology, Chemistry)

3 years recommended

• (E) 2 Years of Foreign Language

3 years recommended

• (F) 1 Year of Visual/Performing Art
• (G) 1 Year of Electives from any category (A-F)

Helpful video: Testing Information

Test Terms to be familiar with

• Test optional: schools will accept test scores if you decide to send them and add it to your application for admissions. For private and out of state schools, please check the website for each colleges' testing policies.
• Test blind: schools will NOT accept test scores for admissions purposes. UC and Cal States are TEST BLIND.

Fee Waivers

Students who qualify for free and reduced lunch program may receive 2 free SAT Reasoning, and 2 free ACT fee waivers (in the course of their entire high school years). Priority is given to seniors for the fall semester and the juniors in the spring semester.

• Students must file a free and reduced lunch program application first. 
• Email your college counselor to receive your fee waiver code

ACT vs SAT Comparison
 

• ACT/SAT Concordance Chart
• Differences between SAT and ACT
• Which one to take?

ACT: American College Test - covers four areas: English, math, reading, and science

www.actstudent.org

Test Fee per test 

• ACT (no writing) $68
• ACT plus writing $93
• Registering for the ACT
• Preparing for the ACT

SAT: Scholastic Aptitude Test - consists of two sections: Critical Reading and Math. The Essay portion is optional but we encourage you to sign up for it because there are still many schools that will require it such as the UC schools.

SAT Registration Fees

Test Fee: SAT $68

Fee waivers available if you qualify. You must file a the lunch program application in order to qualify

More Information about SAT Essay

• The new SAT Essay is a lot like writing assignments you’ll see in college. It asks you to read a passage and analyze how the author constructs a persuasive argument. You’ll have 50 minutes to complete your response.

• The SAT Essay is optional, but many colleges require or recommend it.

• If you don’t register for the SAT with Essay at first, you can add it later.

• You don’t have to take the SAT with Essay, but if you do, you’ll be able to apply to colleges that recommend or require it.

• The list below includes SAT 2015-16 essay policy information for U.S. and international colleges, as well as scholarship providers. If you don’t see a college you’re looking for, or if you want to make sure a college’s essay policy hasn’t changed, contact them directly.
• Click here to see a list of Colleges and college essay requirements

For Fall 2023, UC admissions will be "test-blind", which means the UCs won't use test scores to make admissions decisions.

 

There are many test prep companies and different methods of test preps. ECR does not promote any one test prep company. Please contact each of the company for price and dates.

• C2 Education
• Catalyst
• Eureka Prep
• Kaplan
• Elite Educational Institute
• Huntington Learning Center
• Tried & True Tutoring

Free Online SAT/ACT Prep

• Khan Academy
• Number2.com
• VarsityTutors.com

Community Colleges

• Anywhere from October to March of your senior year
• The application is simple
•  Pierce Application
• No ACT or SAT required
• Pierce Rep here every week
• LA Pierce Promise

California State University (CSU)

• Opened October 1-November 30
• Straight forward application-students need to list your A-G classes.
• No SAT or ACT required for the class of 2022
• No essay required
• No extracurricular activities are listed
• Students send transcripts only if the school is asking for it
• Student must check their portals daily for communication from the different schools
• Check the application

University of California (UC)

• Opened August 1-December 2
• More comprehensive application
• Student must list all A-G classes
• Extracurricular activities and awards must be listed.
• No SAT or ACT required
• Students will only send official transcripts if the schools are asking for it
• Students must check their portals everyday for communications from the UC schools
• Personal Insight Questions required
• Freshman Guide

Private & Out-of-State Universities/Colleges

• Common Application is opened August 1
• Application deadline varies
• More comprehensive application
• Students must list senior schedule, activities, and awards
• Students need to list extracurricular activities
• Letter of recommendation is required by college counselors and at least two academic teachers
• School Report and Mid-year reports are required (official transcripts and recommendations are included) and completed by the college counselor
• SAT or ACT with Writing and SAT Subject Tests are usually required. Students must check the specific requirements for each school*
• Applications usually have several essays- Supplemental essays
• Apply at Common App. 

**Please note that due to COVID-19, testing requirements have changed this year. Please look at each institution's testing policies.

 

• You cannot just take a class online without it being on the approved UC Doorways to meet college entrance requirements
• You can check A-G Course List to see if your class is an approved course from an approved program by typing in “online” on the search engine
• Not all classes are UC approved even though the program/school may be approved; you must check the individual classes
• Remember that these online classes/programs/schools may be approved for UC/CSU, but not approved for NCAA approved.  You must check the information
• Please contact the school/program for availability and the cost of the class/program

At the start of the Fall 2025, we hope to partner with CCGI where students will be able to:

• Plan high school courses and track grades using real-time, pre-populated coursework via CaliforniaColleges.edu’s Academic Planner.
• View their eligibility for the UC or CSU in an easy-to-interpret, color-coded grid. 
• Launch and track the status of their applications to UCs, CSUs, and California Community Colleges. 
• Launch and track the status of their financial aid applications.
• Migrate pre-verified “a-g” coursework and grades into their Cal State Apply applications.

 

California College Guidance Initiative and Annual Parent Notifications

The CCGI is written into California Education Code (EC) Section 60900.5 as an authorized provider of an institutional service to all California School Districts and as part of the state’s efforts to make college-going a more streamlined experience for students (EC Section 60900.5(a)). One service that the CCGI will provide is a set of college and career planning tools, including the CaliforniaColleges.edu tool, designed to help students plan for and apply to California public colleges and universities. The CCGI currently receives enrollment data for all public-school students enrolled in grades six through twelve from the California Department of Education (CDE). LEAs are required to annually notify parents and guardians of this data sharing.

The is a notification to parents and guardians of data-sharing with the CCGI, including the use of California Pupil Achievement Data System (CALPADS) data as outlined in EC 60900.5, and the use of the CaliforniaColleges.edu tool. The data shared will be used to provide pupils and families with direct access to online tools and resources and will enable a pupil to transmit information shared with the CCGI to both of the following:

• Postsecondary educational institutions for purposes of admissions and academic placement.
• The Student Aid Commission for purposes of determining eligibility for, and increasing uptake of, student financial aid.

 

 

 

The UC application opened August 1. UC encourages students to spend ample time on their applications, developing each section to reflect their accomplishments, challenges, opportunities and talents within the context of their own family, school and community. With the application now open, students can begin to craft their application in preparation for our October 1–December 2 filing period.

The UC application provides help and support throughout each of its sections. Applicants can view answers to their commonly asked questions on each page of the application by clicking ‘Help’ on the top navigation bar. Additionally, applicants will see blue ‘i’ icons throughout the application. By clicking on the blue ‘i’ icon, applicants will see a definition, explanation or more context for a question. Lastly, students needing further assistance can contact the UC Application Center via phone or email. The center is available Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Pacific Time).

(800)207-1710 (within the U.S.)

(925)298-6856 (outside the U.S.)

ucinfo@applyucsupport.net

Fee Waivers

UC will continue to waive application fees (for up to four campuses) for qualified students as a feature of the online application. The fee waiver is embedded in the UC application. Based your answer for your financial information, then application will then tell you if qualify for 4 fee waivers. It is important to understand that even if you are on the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, it does not guarantee that you earn fee waivers.

---

Tuition & Financial Aid

For more information, please go to : UC Admission page

HOW APPLICATIONS ARE REVIEWED

13 criteria for UC application review

 

Personal Insight Questions

Essays, personal statements, and personal insight questions will help colleges become acquainted with you as a person and a student apart from grades, courses, test scores, and other objective data. You will also be able to demonstrate your ability to organize your thoughts and express yourself in a cohesive and meaningful essay. Think of your essays and responses as opportunities to share accomplishments, perspectives, talents, and experiences that are important to you. The University of California asks students to answer personal insight questions that are designed to get to know you better. Think of these questions as an interview with the admissions office. As an undergraduate applicant, the University of California wants you to be open and reflective and find your individual voice as you compose your answers.

You will have 8 questions to choose from and you must respond to 4 of the 8 questions:

• Each response is limited to 350 words.
• Which questions you choose to answer is entirely up to you. But you should select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances.
• All questions are equal and all questions are given equal consideration in the application review process. There is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others.
• Your responses will be sent to all UC campuses selected on your application. Do not personalize your answers for any one UC campus.
• Write your responses in a Word document and cut and paste them into the UC application.

More information or personal insight question

 

Not all UC campuses will have an answer for your appeal before the May 1 SIR deadline, so be sure to file a SIR with a backup school in case the appeal does not go through. You will lose your $100 deposit if you are accepted on an appeal somewhere else.

You must present a new and compelling reason for the appeal.

The UC campus offers a set of instructions on how to submit an appeal.

You must follow the instructions. Most appeals due have a strict timeline to abide by.

• UC San Diego: Freshman applicants not offered admission; online appeal only;
• UC Irvine: Appeal to selection decision; postal mail only
• UC Riverside: How to appeal my decision; online appeal only through the portal
• UCLA: Appeals to admission decisions; online only
• UC Berkeley: log into myBerkeleyApplication for appeal instructions
• UC Davis: Non admitted Freshman Applicants; online only
• UC Santa Cruz: Appeal of Denial of Admission; online only DUE March 28
• UC Merced: Appeals process online
• UC Santa Barbara: Submitting appeals; via mail only

 

The ELC program ensures that academically talented and deserving students from all over California have the opportunity to join us at UC. ELC status adds value to the application and is one of the 14 factors considered when applications are reviewed. Additionally, ELC students not admitted to any of their campus choices are offered a spot at a UC campus that has space, if minimum UC requirements are met. The top 9% of each graduating class will be designated as an ELC student.

 

When are waitlist offers announced? When will students hear a decision?

Freshman applicants will receive waitlist offers by the end of March, with an opt-in deadline of April 15. Students will be notified of their final status by June 1. Transfer applicants will receive waitlist offers by the end of April, with an opt-in deadline of May 15. Students will be notified of their final status by July 1.

I have a student who was offered and accepted a space on a waitlist at one of the campuses. Can they do anything to increase their chances of selection? Are students ranked?

Whether or not a campus will offer admission to students on a waitlist depends on a number of factors, including the number of students initially offered admission who accept a space by May 1 (June 1 for transfers), and campus and department enrollment goals. There is nothing that a student should or can do other than opt-in to the waitlist by the stated deadline. Any additional information submitted that was not requested by the campus will not be considered. The process for selecting students from the waitlist varies at each campus. A campus might have enrollment goals for a particular major, leading to the admission of students who applied to that program, but not other. Or a campus might admit broadly.

Can a student accept multiple waitlist offers?

Yes.

Can students who have been admitted at one campus and waitlisted at another accept both offers?

Yes. In fact, we highly recommend students who have been admitted to either a UC campus or another college or university accept that offer since a waitlist offer is not a guarantee of admission later.

How many students are usually admitted from the waitlists?

The number of students who are ultimately admitted varies from year to year, campus to campus. There is no way to tell how many students, if any, will ultimately be offered admission for any particular year.

Can a student who was waitlisted appeal their admission decision? Can a student who was denied admission appeal to be on the waitlist?

No. Offers to be on the waitlist are not admissions decisions and cannot be appealed. Similarly, students who were denied admission can only appeal for reconsideration to be admitted to the campus, not to be placed on the waitlist.

If a student did not receive an offer of admission from any campus to which they applied, but was waitlisted by a campus, will they receive an offer from UC Merced?

Yes, provided that the student meets all of the criteria for either the statewide or local guarantee.

If students are admitted from the waitlist, will they receive a financial aid package? Will they still be guaranteed housing and orientation?

Most campuses will not have financial aid award packages available when a waitlist offer is made. However, financial aid awards will be made available in accordance with campus policies and procedures, provided the applicant has submitted the FAFSA by the application deadline. The Statement of Intent to Register for students admitted from a waitlist will be considered on time for purposes of housing and orientation, provided they are submitted by the deadline stated in the offer of admission.

If a student is admitted from a campus waitlist after submitting a statement of intent to register (SIR) and deposit to another campus, can the initial deposit be refunded or transferred?

No, the SIR deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.

 

For UC schools: If you added or dropped A-G or AP courses, or received any D or F grades in A-G or AP courses, you need to contact the individual campuses to submit the information for consideration. Below are the instructions for each UC campus:

• Berkeley – Berkeley will not accept post-submission updates. Any updates that are sent will not be considered in the application reading process.
• Davis – Freshman applicants should submit changes thru Davis Portal
• Irvine – Freshman applicants should submit changes thru Irvine Portal.
• Los Angeles – Some post-submission updates will be accepted. Visit the UCLA contact page for further details.
• Merced – Post-submission updates are only accepted if the student is admitted. They can click on the “myCourseUpdate” link in their connect portal
• Riverside – Freshman applicants should submit changes through their website.
• San Diego – San Diego will not accept post-submission updates. Any updates that are sent will not be considered in the application reading process.
• Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara will not accept post-submission updates. Any updates that are sent will not be considered in the application reading process.
• Santa Cruz – The update form will be available after December 15. Can be submitted through the UC Santa Cruz portal

You should do this soon. (updated 12/12/23)

If you applied to CSU schools or other colleges, you will need to do the same and notify each school you applied to if there were any changes in your reported schedule. You usually email the admission office for the school. If you decide to call, please document all calls.

 

• AB540 FOR UC
• USING “ADDITIONAL COMMENTS” SECTION
• EOP PROGRAMS
• UC CONTACT INFO
• AWPE TEST (WRITING PLACEMENT TEST)

Does it help students to submit their applications early in November?

A: For UC’s purposes, it does not matter if the application is submitted earlier or later in the month. All on-time (submitted by Dec. 2) applications are reviewed in the same way.

Can students change information on the application once it’s been submitted?

A: Once the application has been submitted, only contact information and self-reported tests scores can be updated online. Please remind your students to carefully review the entire completed application before submission.

I dropped a class after the first semester. Do I need to let the UC’s know?

A: Yes, you should report it. See the above answer. Don’t stand the chance of not reporting it, because at the end of the year, you will HAVE to send an official transcript and they will verify what you reported. If it doesn’t match, you may run of the risk of getting your acceptance rescinded. Remember, it’s a provisional (conditional) acceptance.

Will the change in my senior year schedule affect the admission decision?

A: It’s hard to say because everyone is different and everything is examined case by case. It may matter to one UC but not another. Either way, you should report any changes like if you dropped a class.

When will I hear from the UC’s about their admission decisions?

A: You should hear about March

Do I need to take the SAT Subject tests for admissions?

A: They are not a required part of the admissions process. But there are some competitive majors that highly suggest that you take subject tests.

What if I took classes through OFL? How do I input those classes on my application?

A: The only classes you should be inputting on your UC and Cal state applications are A-G classes only. Be sure to type out the entire name, Opportunities For Learning. It does not matter which location you took the classes at. Usually your options are Baldwin Hills or Irwindale.

Helpful video: Cal State Information

​​​​Information about CSU Campuses:

There are 23 CSU campuses. They offer degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels. They also have programs offering professional degrees in areas such as education and engineering.

Explore majors in the CSU system

CSU Admissions Requirements

• Must meet A-G requirements
• CSUs do not require students to list community service activities
• They do not require a letter of recommendation
• They do not require a personal statement or essay
• Only send transcripts if you get a specific request to do so
• You can apply for a fee waiver within the application. You will know immediately when you submit if you qualified for four free applications.

Grades

 The grades you earned in high school is the most important factor in CSU admission decisions. You high school GPA is calculated using your “a-g” grades in 10th and 11th grades only, a maximum of 8 honors points, no more than two in 10th grades.

• The following courses receive an extra weighted point towards GPA as well as courses that are considered AP level:
  • Honors U.S. History
  • Honors American Lit. Comp.
  • Honors Contemporary Comp.
  • Honors Math Analysis
  • Multi variable Calculus 
  • Honors Chemistry
  • Honors Physics
  • Honors Physiology
  • Honors Jazz Band
  • Honors Vocal Ensemble 
  • Advanced Topics in Data Structures and Algorithms 
• Please refer to the UC Articulation website to double check which courses can give you an extra point

Test Scores

Due to COVID-19, CSU suspends Standardized Testing Requirement for upcoming admissions cycle. The Cal state schools are test blind and will not accept any test scores for admissions purposes.

Supplemental Factors 

​​The California State University (CSU) no longer uses ACT or SAT examinations in determining admission eligibility for all CSU campuses.

What are the supplemental factors?

Campuses will use a combination of students' “a-g" GPA and supplemental factors to determine admission eligibility. To review campus specific information please select the campus link below:

CSU Eligibility Index

The Eligibility Index Table shows the combination of test scores and grade point averages required to meet minimum eligibility requirements. The CSU does not use the SAT Writing section or the ACT writing score to calculate the CSU Eligibility Index.

Please note that some CSU schools such as Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, San Diego State and others may require more competitive scores to be admitted.

 

Some campuses and majors are designed impacted because the number of applications exceeds the number of spaces available.

• List of campuses that are impacted and the majors that are impacted

CSUN Impacted Major

The list of impacted majors below may change in future academic years.

• Accountancy
• Biology
• Business administration
• Cinema & Television Arts
• Communications
• Health Administration
• Music
• Kinesiology
• Psychology

Applicants to the following impacted major are required to pass an audition:

1. Music – See Audition & Placement.

Equal Opportunity Program (EOP):

The EOP program is designed to improve access and retention of historically low-income and educationally disadvantaged students. EOP students have the potential and demonstrated motivation to perform, but they have not been able to realize their potential.

There is a separate application that must be filled out for each campus a student applies through EOP. Students are also required to submit 2 letters of recommendations for the EOP Programs. The letters of recommendations should come from teachers the students know well.

The EOP Applications deadlines are different from campus to campus. Therefore students must look to see when the applications are due. 

 

• Cost of CSU by Campus

• CSU Net Price Calculator

Middle Class Scholarship via California Student Aid Commission (CSAC)

The Middle Class Scholarship lowers the college fees to up to 40% off statewide fees (tuition) at the UC and CSU campuses for families making under $100,000 that do not qualify for other financial aid programs and will provide a 10% tuition reduction for families making up to $150,000. The Middle Class Scholarship tuition coverage is based on a sliding scale. Students must filed the FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov or the California Dream Act Application at www.caldreamact.org no later than March 2nd priority deadline. Students must have a minimum of 2.0 financial aid GPA.

 

Do I need a letter of recommendation to apply to the CSUs?

No, you do not need letters of recommendations. Having a transcript in front of you will be helpful.

I think I calculated the CSU GPA incorrectly. What do I do?

This happens more frequently than you think. So, each school will recalculate your GPA to make sure it’s correct.

What if I took classes through OFL? How do I input those classes on my application?

The only classes you should be inputting on your UC and Cal state applications are A-G classes only. Be sure to type out the entire name, Opportunities For Learning. It does not matter which location you took the classes at. Usually your options are Baldwin Hills or Irwindale.

 

• 2021 - 2022 CSU Campus Admission Factors Summary
• Cost-of-Attendance
• Impacted Programs Matrix
• Tips for CSU Application 2024 Admission
• Top Freshman Application Dos-and-Don'ts

 

The Common Application is a uniform college application that has over 500 members (colleges and universities) whereby a student can apply to colleges.

How to match your Naviance and Common App

How to match your Common App & Naviance - Watch Video

Common App Activity section: Approaching the Activities section | Common App

• Western Undergraduate Exchange Website

Residents of the WICHE states may be eligible to get reduced tuition rates at participating institutions outside of their home state. To get the most recent and up-to-date information about WUE admissions, you must contact the colleges you are interested in and talk to someone in charge of the WUE admissions. You may need to file a different application.

• Co-Op Colleges Website

Co-Op Colleges require or encourage students to apply what they’re learning in the classroom out in the real world – through closely supervised internships or practicums, or through cooperative education.

AXS Companion: Last year, 41% of the seniors who opened Common App accounts never completed an application, many from under-resourced communities. To help those students achieve greater success, the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) and Oregon State University’s Ecampus have launched the AXS Companion, on August 30, 2022. The AXS Companion is a free, open, online resource to help students navigate Common App. IECA volunteers created the content, and Oregon State University’s Ecampus developed the platform. The AXS Companion opens with a welcome from Karen Richardson of Princeton University, contains 50+ step-by-step tutorial videos, and closes with a summation by Todd Rinehart at the University of Denver. Here is a 6-minute overview of the AXS Companion.

Private and Out of State School Information

Early Action vs. Early Decision

 

 

How do I know I need a recommendation?

You do not need a recommendation for the UC and CSU schools. If you are applying through Common Application, you will need a counselor’s recommendation along with 2 to 3 teacher recommendations. It is important to double check every institution to find out if recommendation letters are required and exact number required.

Do I have to fill out a recommendation packet?

If you need any recommendation for college, you will need to fill out a recommendation packet for the college counselors. The packet is used to get to know you more.

What is included in the school report?

The school report includes your high school GPA (ECR GPA), class rank, a transcript, a rating system and a letter of recommendation from the counselor.

Can a school report be submitted without a recommendation?

Yes, technically it can be submitted without a recommendation. But it is to your advantage to have a recommendation included in the school report.

Which college counselors will write my recommendation?

Mr. Graham for students last names A-G, Mrs. Yi for students last name H-P, Mrs. Murcia for students last names Q-Z.

Can I ask my regular counselor to submit a recommendation?

Yes, you can but you must ask them before. Letters of recommendations are typically written by college counselors at ECR.   

Can someone else (outside private college counselor) complete the school report?

No, they cannot do the recommendation/school report. It must be someone from El Camino. This is the reason why it is important for you to get to know the college counselors so that when they have to write your recommendation, they know you thoroughly to write you a good and relevant recommendation.

Do I need a teachers’ recommendation?

You may need at least two additional teacher’s recommendations. So, ask your teachers early. Check the college website to see how many you need. Schools prefer 11th grade teachers.

Do I need to do an interview with the college counselor?

You don’t have to have an interview, but it is to your advantage to schedule one with the college counselors so that they can get to know you better. If a packet is turned after the last due date, you may not receive an interview time. But the school report and the recommendation will still be written for you using the information from the recommendation packet.

Does the packet need to be complete to schedule an interview?

Yes, it must be completed and everything must be there to schedule an interview. Please use the checklist in the packet to ensure that the packet is complete. Remember to get the proofs. They need to be included in the packet.

The deadline to submit a recommendation packet has past, but I changed my mind and now want to apply to private schools. What do I do?

Please talk to the college counselors. A school report may or may not submitted on time. It depends and the circumstances. But please remember that they are not available during the winter break to write recommendations. Even if the college counselor can do the recommendation last minute, you will have to arrange teachers’ recommendations to be submitted on time.

The colleges I applied to is asking me to send a mid-year report? How do I do that?

The mid year report is basically your 7th semester transcript (senior year grades). If the college counselors did your school report through Naviance or SENDedu, they will be automatically uploaded sometime at the end of January. So, you do not need to send a transcript. If no recommendations were needed by them and you still need a mid-year report, see your college counselor and they can help you sort it out.

• Location: California, East Coast, etc. Where do relatives live? What type of transportation is needed.
• Size: The size of the campus: 1 acre or 400 acres? Enrollment: 25-50,000 students
• Setting of the campus: Rural/ Suburban/ Urban? Which are you more familiar with?
• Academics: What majors? What minors? Doubt majors? Can you change your majors?
• Learning environment: Large, small classrooms, discussion groups, accessibility of teachers?
• Extracurricular options: Intramural sports, clubs or organizations. What to do outside of class
• Housing options: Type and availability of dorms and other housing. Roommate issues
• Cost to attend: $15,000 to $60,000? Do you plan to attend graduate school?
• School spirit: NCAA sports? Banana slug vs. Trojans?

CHECK OUT SuperMatch through Naviance

Don’t include a school on your college list that you are not willing to attend. Include schools that fall into one of the following three categories: Safe, Target and Reach. Apply to a few schools from each category.

Safe: A college where you would have been easily accepted the previous year. You can be reasonably certain that you will be admitted to your safety schools and be happy there.

• You meet all the requirements for the recommended coursework
• Your GPA is significantly above the averaged accepted last year

Target: A college where your academic qualifications fall well within or even exceed the school’s range for the average freshman. These schools are places you will be very happy and most likely to be admitted. There are no guarantees, but it’s not unreasonable to be accepted to several of your target schools.

• You meet all the requirements for the recommended coursework
• You GPA is above the average accepted last year

Reach: You have all the qualifications and academic credentials fall within range or below the school’s range for the average freshman. These schools are your top choices, but more academically challenging to get into. Reach schools are long-shots but they should still be possible.

• You GPA is at about or above the average accepted last year
• You have taken the average or above number of honors/AP courses

• Naviance (please access through SSO)

• Californiacolleges.edu

Learn about the different colleges in California

• College Board Big Future College Search

Search for colleges that may be your “fit” by selecting your preferences; narrow your college list

• Cappex.com College Search

Search for colleges, their profile, deadlines and what their campuses are like

• Princeton Review College Search

Search for colleges by state, majors, activities etc.

• Learning about different types of School by Federal Student Aid

General information about the different types of colleges and universities

• College Planning by Peterson’s

Get information about what to do as a 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grader to prepare for college

• College Navigator

Search for the right school for you based on your preferences; the official college database from the US Department of Education

• Colleges that Change Lives College Search

A non profit group that provides college searches based on the Colleges that Changed Lives

• College Week Live –

The World’s Largest College Fair-online virtual tours of colleges and universities around the world. Online workshops are also available.

• College Prowler

Provides free college guides online that review different aspects about the college campus

• Get me to College

Provides a comprehensive resource guide to first generation college goers.

• Myplan.com

This site has a personality test and career interest assessment

• Unigo.com

Unigo’s college reviews is mostly based on student reviews around the country. Keep in mind that these are student reviews of colleges.

• Colleges of Distinction

Reviews of colleges, most of which are often not highlighted in mainstream guidebooks

• Campus Reel Learn everything you want to know about college--the food, the town, the school spirit, and much more--through videos from students attending those universitie
• Asian & Pacific Islander Scholarships
• Historically Black Colleges
• Hispanic Serving Institutions
• Christian Colleges
• Colleges with Hillels on Campus
• NCAA INFORMATION

• Big Future 9/10th grade college prep checklist
• 9th grade- How to start planning
• 10th grade- How to start planning
• Big Future: 11th grade college prep checklist
• 11th- How to start planning

la promise

To qualify for Promise Year 1:

Be a 2025 graduate from a California high school.

Complete the Los Angeles Pierce College (LAPC) Application (Summer 2025)

Complete O.A.C.

• Orientation: Log in to your Student Portal, select "Student Status", select "Orientation". Complete all sections
• Assessment: Log in to your Student Portal, select "Student Status", select "Assessment Result". If there are no assessment results posted, please speak with a Counselor online.
• Counseling: Sign up for a virtual New Student Counseling Group to complete your first semester education plan

Complete an application for financial aid, either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act, 2024-2025.

If you are interested in the Pierce Promise Program complete the Los Angeles College Promise Interest Form.

Complete a Summer transition activity! Click Here to sign up for an activity. (as of 12/1/22, not has been updated by Pierce)

Enroll as a full-time student in Fall 2025 & Spring 2026 (minimum 12 units at Pierce College each term). 

We have a Pierce Community College representative that will be coming every week on Monday from 9:30-1 pm in the College & Career Center.

• Pierce Application Online:
• LA Pierce Promise

Pierce’s Honors Program:

The Honors Program (or it’s equivalent at other community colleges) can enhance a student’s ability to transfer to a highly selective college like UCLA. But please remember that the program does not guarantee admissions. You will have fill out a separate application to get into the Honors Program.

Steps to Applying to Pierce:

1. See the handout attached below to see how you can apply to Pierce

 

 Pierce Community College IGETC:

The IGETC is approximately 34-37 CSU/UC transferable semester units. A minimum of 60 CSU/UC transferable semester units is required for transfer. You will need to complete additional coursework in your major and maybe some elective courses. Please see a counselor at Pierce to develop an Educational Plan so you can reach your goals. Please note that colleges have different IGETCs.

Concurrent Enrollment: How high school students can take classes at Pierce

 Students need to apply online, take the concurrent enrollment form to the admissions office, and show up on the first day to get an “add” card. The “add” card must be taken back to the admission office at Pierce.

• Information about concurrent enrollment for high school students

El Camino Real Charter High School Dual Enrollment Program The Dual Enrollment Program is a two-year program and requires students to commit to taking two Pierce College classes each semester including a Summer. During the Fall and Spring semesters, these classes will be offered during the school day and be part of the student’s ECR class schedule.  Upon completion of the program, students can earn up to 31 transferable semester units of college coursework.  ●      This program is a two-year commitment ●      The program requires the student to take two Pierce classes each semester  ●      There is no mixing/matching;the student cannot do only one class and not the other ●      All classes are UC/CSU transferable ●      Student must pass classes with “C” or better to continue in program ●      Sample schedule: ○      Period 1 - Period 4 (ECR classes) ○      Period 5 - Period 6 (Pierce classes that are offered on the ECR campus) 12th grade dual enrollment classes are slightly varied with Periods 1 and 2 being Pierce classes.  Dual Enrollment Program – Proposed Schedule (subject to change): Communication Studies 101                       Fall 2024-11th Grade Sociology 1                                                     Fall 2024-11th Grade History 12                                                        Spring 2025- 11th Grade Philosophy 1                                                   Spring 2025- 11th Grade Political Science 1                                          Summer 2025- 12th Grade Cinema 107                                                    Summer 2025-12th Grade Math 227                                                         Fall 2025- 12th Grade English 101                                                    Fall 2025- 12th Grade Psychology 1                                                   Spring 2026- 12th Grade Anthropology 101                                            Spring 2026- 12th Grade   Students are expected to follow regulations and procedures that apply to all college students. The student shall receive college credit for the community college courses that are completed. The completed classes then become part of the student’s college transcript so it is important to put forth best effort. HOW TO SIGN UP: If you are a new student, submit an Application for Admission. If you are a Continuing Student (attended college in the last academic year), you do not need to submit a new application. Submit a signed Los Angeles Community College District Supplemental Application for Admission of Students in Grades K-12, available for download or viewing as an Adobe Acrobat Portable Document Format (PDF) file, to the Admissions and Records Office prior to enrolling for classes. The form must indicate the course(s) that are approved for you to enroll. This must be done every semester

 

Information about Moorpark Community College

• Moorpark IGETC:

• Apply for Admissions

• Moorpark’s Honors Program

• Special Admissions for High School Students

 

Information about Santa Monica Community College

• Santa Monica IGETC

• Apply Online

• Santa Monica’s Scholar’s Program

 

• Information about Los Angeles Valley Community College

• Valley IGETC

• Apply Online

• Valley’s Transfer Alliance/Honors Program

 

Did you know that more than 13,000 transfer students applied for a Transfer Admission Guarantee last year? This program guarantees admission to a campus and major for students who meet the TAG criteria. With the guarantee in hand at one campus, many students apply to other campuses without risk, as the TAG does not bind a student to attend the TAG campus if admitted to another UC campus.

Six UC campuses offer an admission guarantee for junior transfer applicants. These include UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Merced, UC Riverside, UC Santa Barbara and UC Santa Cruz.

By participating in the program, students can ensure their admission to a specific UC campus and major. About 83 percent of students admitted through a TAG choose to enroll in a UC campus — including at the three non-TAG campuses. As TAG students come to UC well prepared academically, the majority (65 percent entering Fall 2019) graduate within two years of enrolling at UC.

To support your TAG advising efforts, please utilize the UC TAG Matrix as needed.

Students can submit their TAG via the UC Transfer Admission Planner (UC TAP). The TAG filing period for fall is September 1–30. Students can submit a TAG to only one UC campus.

TAG is also the cornerstone of the Pathways+ transfer option, as well as the UC Transfer Pathways Associate Degrees in Chemistry and Physics.6 UC campuses offer guarantee admissions to students from community colleges. Interested students must meet campus-specific requirements to qualify for a UC TAG. By participating in a TAG program, students can ensure their admission to a specific UC campus.

Tag Program

• The UCLA Transfer Alliance Program (TAP) with UCLA gives community college students extra consideration to their College of Letters and Science.

• TAG: Transfer Admission Guarantee 

ASSIST is an online student-transfer information system that shows how course credits earned at one public California college or university can be applied when transferring to another.

This link is to our website with additional information.  

Website about Community Colleges:

• List of Community Colleges

• List of Community Colleges with dorms

NEW FAFSA/DREAM ACT INFORMATION: DUE MARCH 2, 2025

Updates on the new FAFSA Form

2024-25 FAFSA From on StudentAid.gov

Types of Financial Aid: 

Do you need money for college or career school?:

FSA ID: Create One Now!

While we wait for new information about when the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA and Dream Act) will be available December 1st, now is the perfect time for students and their FSA IDs. That way, they are ready to complete and submit the FAFSA as soon as it becomes available. 

 

Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) are required to confirm that high school seniors complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA).

Students may alternatively complete an opt-out form, which shall be collected and retained by the high school. 

Opt Out Form

Please return from to either Mr. Graham, Mrs. Yi, or Mrs. Murcia in the College & Career Center or you can fill out the Opt Out

Assembly Bill 2160 was signed into law in September 2014 mandating that all public schools electronically submit grade point averages (GPAs) for all graduating seniors to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) by October 1 for Cal Grant consideration, unless the student or parent has opted out.

Cal Grant awards range from $5,000 to 12,000 and are for students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree or vocational or career training. Cal Grants do not have to be repaid. California Education Code section 69432.9 requires the school district to notify all grade 11 students and their parent/guardian (if under the age of 18), in writing and no later than January 1 of a student’s grade 11 academic year, that the student will be deemed a Cal Grant applicant unless the student has opted out prior to March 1 of their 11th grade year. Students who do not opt out will have their GPA submitted to the Commission to be considered for a Cal Grant award. If you choose not to have your student’s GPA sent to the California Student Aid Commission, your student will not be considered for a Cal grant. Please return your opt-out form to the guidance office no later than March 1 of the student's 11th grade year. Please see your school counselor if you have any questions.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

El Proyecto de ley de la asamblea 2160 se convirtió en ley en septiembre de 2014 ordenando que todas las escuelas públicas presenten electrónicamente el promedio de calificaciones (Conocido por las siglas en inglés GPA) para todos los alumnos del 12º grado a la Comisión de ayuda estudiantil de California (Conocido por siglas las inglés CSAC) antes del 1 de octubre para ser considerados para la Subvención Cal Grant, a menos que el alumno, el padre/ tutor haya optado por no participar en el proceso de envío.

Las subvenciones son de $5,000 a $12,000 y son para los alumnos que están cursando una licenciatura, formación profesional o capacitación vocacional. Las subvenciones Cal Grant no tienen que ser reembolsadas. El Artículo 69432.9 del Código de Educación de California exige que el distrito escolar notifique por escrito a cada alumno en el 11° grado o sus padres/tutor (si menos de 18 años) antes del 1 de enero del 11° grado del alumno. El alumno se considerará un solicitante de la subvención Cal Grant a menos que el alumno, el padre/ tutor opte por no participar en el envío de su GPA a la Comisión a más tardar el 1º de marzo del 11º grado del alumno. Si los alumnos no optan por la exclusión voluntaria, se entregará el GPA a la Comisión para ser considerados para la subvención Cal Grant. Si usted decide que no se envíe el promedio de calificaciones de su hijo/a la Comisión de ayuda estudiantil de California, su hijo/a no será considerado para recibir una subvención Cal Grant. Los formularios para exclusión voluntaria deben ser entregados a la oficina de asesoría a más tardar el 1º de marzo del 11º grado. Por favor hable con su consejero escolar si tiene alguna pregunta.

Important Cal Grant Information for Seniors

ECR will be submitting the Cal Grant GPA via online. But parents have the option to opt out from the online GPA submission. We do not recommend that you opt out because you will have to still submit the GPA to CSAC. But if you choose to opt out, please click here for the form. This form must be turned into the college office by October 15.

Scholarships are free money for college. You should never have to pay to find, apply or receive one.

• Read about Scholarship Scams and avoiding scholarship scams

• Scholarship Guide by Fast Web

• Scholarship Scam by Fast Web

• How to win a Scholarship by Fast Web

Website Resources for Scholarship Search

• College Board Scholarships Search: Find scholarships and other financial aid from more than 3,000 national, state and private funds. Database is updated annually.
• Fast Web: It offers students with more than 180,000 listings of scholarships, fellowships, grants, and loans.
• Cappex.com: Scholarship search matching your strength, skills, and interests.

Anyone interested in Questbridge must either see Mrs. Murcia or Mr. Graham. You will need to complete a Recommendation Packet.

• Questbridge Selection Criteria

The Middle Class Scholarship lowers the college fees to up to 40% off statewide fees (tuition) at the UC and CSU campuses for families making under $100,000 that do not qualify for other financial aid programs and will provide a 10% tuition reduction for families making up to $150,000. The Middle Class Scholarship tuition coverage is based on a sliding scale. Students must filed the FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov or the California Dream Act Application at www.caldreamact.org no later than March 2nd priority deadline. Students must have a minimum of 2.0 financial aid GPA.

• Information about the Middle Class Scholarship

 

WUE: Residents of WICHE states can gain affordable access to programs, states avoid costly and unnecessary duplication of programs and facilities, and colleges and universities can devote their resources to improving the quality of their educational offerings.

• How to apply through WUE?

 

Minority Students

• Scholarship for Minority Students: American Indian Scholarship Funds
• American Indian Scholarship Funds: African American Scholarships
• African American Scholarships: (UNCF- United Negro College Fund)
• Black College Dollars: Free scholarship search geared towards geared towards African American students; sponsored by HBCU Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Latino/Hispanic Students

• Latino College Dollars: Offers diverse range of scholarship programs
• Hispanic Scholarship Funds: The Hispanic Scholarship Fun, Inc (HCF) is a private non-profit organization founded in 1993 to develop the next generation of Hispanics business leaders in America by awarding scholarships to deserving Hispanic students.
• MALDEF Scholarships: List of scholarships that does not ask for social security number

Asian Students

• Asian and Pacific Island Scholarship: Scholarship search for Asian American and Pacific Islander

 

• College Scholarships with Information for Athletes: Scholarship information for student-athletes

Major Specific Scholarships

• Major Specific Scholarship Page: Look for scholarships if you are interested in art, biology, computer science, engineering, journalism, and nursing.

 

• Twitter.com/FAFSA
• Facebook.com/FederalStudentAid
• YouTube.com/ FederalStudentAid

 

Private Education, Public Price

Public Price Promise Attend Cal Lutheran for the average cost of UC schools.

The Public Price Promise scholarship awards you the difference in average cost of attendance between Cal Lutheran and University of California schools. This is important because you get the experience of a private school education for the cost of a public school price. 

The scholarship amount for 2024-25 is: $32,500

What is an FSA ID?

An FSA ID is a username and password that is required to log in to certain U.S. Department of Education (ED) websites.  Your FSA ID identifies you as someone who has the right to access your own personal information on ED websites such as the FAFSA or the Dream Act

Why do you recommend doing this now?

Processing a new FSA ID can take up to 5 business days. By getting those IDs now, it means your students and their families will be ready to complete and submit the FAFSA once it's available and not have to wait for their FSA IDs to process.

Who needs an FSA ID?

Beginning with the 2024–25 FAFSA®, all contributors (student, student's spouse, and/or parent) must have their own FSA ID.

How does someone get an FSA ID?

To create an FSA ID, please go to https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch

What if the student or contributor doesn’t remember their FSA ID or is not sure if they have one?

To retrieve a forgotten FSA ID or password, please go to studentaid.gov/fsa-id/sign-in/landing and click either the "Forgot my Username" or "Forgot my Password" links.

What if the parent of a student doesn't have a Social Security Number (SSN)?

Those contributors without an SSN, but whose student is eligible to apply for federal student aid, will need an FSA ID. However, they cannot yet create an FSA ID without an SSN. We expect this access to be available around the same time the FAFSA® is released.

• College Clip September 2024

To access Naviance, it's on your MyECR.ecrchs.net. You will automatically be logged into your account. 

Helpful video: Naviance

Naviance:

• Can help start your college search
• Provides scholarships 
  • local scholarships
  • national scholarship search engine
• Gives information about colleges
  • representative visits
  • costs
  • scattergrams of admissions of El Camino students
  • and much more!
• Most importantly, Naviance is linked to Common App, which sends important information to the schools including transcripts, school reports, and letters of recommendation
  • students must request letters of recommendation through Naviance 

If you have any questions, please contact the College and Career Center:

Sylvia Yi                                   
s.yi@ecrchs.net                             
818-595-7549

Justin Graham                         
j.graham@ecrchs.net                     
818-595-7566

Lilliana Luviano Murcia           
l.murcia@ecrchs.net                       
818-595-7535

 

• My Plan.com

This site has a personality and career assessment test

• California Career Resource Network :

The site provides resources for anyone interested in career self-management skills necessary in today’s world of work.

• California Career Zone:

This site is a web based career exploration system and assessment for career options

• Career Path

This site provides information about career planning, career tests and career advice

• My Next Move

Naviance also provides career guidance

Job Search

• Job Trends in California

• National Job Trends

• California Job
• Occupational Outlook Handbook

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship is a system of learning while earning. It combines training on the job with related and supplemental instruction at school. Each program operates under apprenticeship training standards agreed to by labor and/or management in accordance with State and Federal laws, under which a person works with a skilled worker and gains on the job skills and “know-how” and in turn becomes an important part of the occupation and industry. Click on the link to find apprenticeship programs in California.

After high school, you can choose many different paths to continue your education. One path is to earn a certificate degree or diploma from a career college or technical school that will train you for a specific career, trade, or profession. Those schools train for a variety of technical positions, including automotive technician, computer technician, hairstylist, medical assistant, truck driver, and other field. This website will give you some questions you’ll want to ask before enrolling in a career college or technical school.

• US Department of Education

Career and Technical Programs AA programs at Pierce Community College

Vocational schools train in specific careers that do not require a college degree. Programs can run between 6 months to two years. Some of the programs available are accounting, medical front and back office, digital multimedia, computer aided drafting, certified nursing assistant, cosmetology, dental technician, pharmacy technician, machinist, landscaping, culinary arts and many more.

• West Valley Occupational Center/ El Camino-Reseda Adult School

• North Valley Occupational Center

Military Career Opportunities

• My Future Military Occupations

Nursing is among the top 10 occupation with the largest job growth.

Learn more about the different kinds of nursing jobs. In order to take the National Council Licensing Exam (NCLEX), nursing programs must be accredited by the Board of National Nursing. Click here to search to see if your program is accredited. To see a list of approved nursing programs go to www.rn.ca.gov

• UCLA: BS Pre licensure program; this is a four year program starting freshman year

• Irvine: BS Nursing Science; there is an undergraduate program

• Davis: No undergraduate nursing major or program; only masters and doctorate programs available.

CSUs with Nursing Programs

List of academic programs in Nursing in the CSU systems.

• Pierce Community College Nursing Program: They offer AA in nursing. The prerequisite courses must be completed before an application is filed for the Nursing program.
• Moorpark Community College Nursing Program: Provides an associate degree in nursing

 

• To learn more about the application process to get into the program click here.