Counselor Notes
ACT TEST INFORMATION
The ACT writing assessment is an optional test with an additional test fee. Not all colleges/universities require the writing exam. It is suggested that students research the admissions criteria for their desired post high school institution to know whether they should take this additional exam. Score reports are normally mailed within 4-7 weeks after the test date. If you take the ACT Plus Writing, your report will be mailed when all your scores, including Writing, are available.
Students that have qualified for school free or reduced lunch program can ask to have test fees waived. Qualifying students need to see Mrs. Almelien for a fee waiver form.
Students can find a full set of sample test questions, along with complete answer explanations, test-taking strategies, and detailed analyses of each section of the ACT Assessment - all in ACT’s Student Site at www.actstudent.org. Other practice sites are: www.ihaveaplaniowa.gov, www.number2.com and www.march2success.com.
ACT & PARENTS
College planning can be difficult, not only for students but for parents as well. For parents who need tips on sorting through the ins and outs of college planning, ACT offers www.actparent.org as an online guide to understanding the process. Parents can sign up on the website in order to receive an ACT parent newsletter.
ACT TEST WORKSHOP
ACT Prep Workshops will be held several times throughout the year by Northwest Missouri State University (NWMSU). Registration includes a $60 non-refundable fee and space is limited. Sessions run from 9:00am to 2:00pm. Call 800-633-1175 for more information. Sessions will be held on the following dates and locations...
October 19, 2013 @ NWMSU St. Joseph Center
November 23, 2013 @ NWMSU Kansas City Center
March 29, 2013 @ NWMSU in Maryville
PSAT/NMSQT TEST DATE
The PSAT/NMSQT, or National Merit Test, is a pre-SAT test given to juniors and sophomores to assess knowledge and skills developed through years of study in a wide range of courses. There is a scholarship competition included with this test. Information has been given to all qualifying students through our school announcements. This year the National Merit Test will be given October 16, 2013.
SENIOR INTERVIEWS
The Clarinda High School Counselor will begin interviewing the seniors about their plans for after they graduate. They will receive information about colleges, how to locate scholarships, and the application process.
SCHOLARSHIP WEBSITE
Where can I find Scholarships??? Sign on to the school’s website www.clarinda.k12.ia.us, select “High School” on the drop down menu, and then select “Scholarships.” Scholarships will be updated throughout the year, but if they are not up dated feel free to gather information by using an Internet browser. Other sites to use for scholarship searches are also listed on the school’s scholarships web page.
FINANCIAL AID ESTIMATOR
The U.S. Department of Education’s office of Federal Student Aid is pleased to announce the release of FAFSA4caster, a Web tool designed to assist high school juniors/seniors and their families plan for education beyond high school. Students can receive an estimated Expected Family Contribution (EFC) by entering their information into FAFSA4caster, a simplified version of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA4caster also provides guidance on next steps for applying for admission, applying for federal student aid, and paying for education beyond high school. Students and families can access FAFSA4caster by visiting: http://studentaid.ed.gov/fafsa/estimate.