Lycée Guidance and Planning

Applying to a college or university consists of five basic steps.

1. Conduct a self-assessment: Explore personal values, goals, and interests. Evaluate academic records and personal strengths and weaknesses. Determine what type of environment best suits your learning style and needs.
2. Research colleges and universities to find the best fit your interests, goals, personality, and budget.
3. Prepare for and take college entrance exams: SAT, SAT Subject Tests, ACT, TOEFL.
4. Compile a list of suitable colleges.
5. Apply to the selected colleges.
6. Apply for financial aid and scholarships.
7. Decide which college to attend.

Each of these steps is fully explained in the College Application Handbook, which further explains the differences between the French and American systems.

Role of the College Advisor

At each stage of the process, the College Advisor provides resources and assistance. The College Advisor:

• Works with faculty to identify students’ strengths, weaknesses, interests, and potential.
• Conducts parent/student information sessions for the entire school to familiarize the community with the options available to Lycée students.
• Conducts special information sessions on the college search, application, and financial aid process.
• Conducts in-school preparation for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT.
• Registers students and administers the PSAT on-campus for 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students.
• Registers students and administers AP exams on campus in May.
• Sets aside class time for college presentations and to introduce students to the college admission and application process.
• Provides thae opportunity for students to meet with over 20 college representatives who visit the campus each year.
• Convenes a University Advisory Council comprised of parents and former Lycée students who have graduated from selective colleges to share information, experiences, and advice with current Lycée students and their families.
• Maintains a library of catalogs, resources, and test preparation materials for student use.
• Conducts individual meetings with students throughout the school year.
• Assists with and facilitates all aspects of the college application process.

See the College Advisor Calendar for a complete list of College Advisor responsibilities.