Applying to High School

High School Application Workshop Series

Aim High is piloting a new program in Fall 2009 to support students and families who are going through the High School Application process. A small group of Aim High students meet weekly with Aim High staff and volunteers to find out more about public, charter, and independent school options; SSAT testing and test prep; staying organized through the application process; financial aid; and writing strong personal statements. To find out more about this program, contact Kimberly Shannon, Student Center Director, at kshannon@aimhigh.org or (415) 551-2320.

 

Navigating the High School Application Process

Choosing a high school is one of the big decisions that we make in our academic careers.  Whether you plan to attend a public, charter, independent or parochial school the application process can often be complex.  To help you navigate this process we put together a growing list of frequently used links to a variety of resources, created timelines and tips for quick referencing, and post information about scheduled high school fairs, workshops, open house dates and important deadlines. 

It is never too early to begin preparing for and thinking about your High School options.  6th and 7th graders can attend High School Fairs and start researching different schools.  Also, make the schools want you by keeping a high GPA, access tutorial help and participate in extra curricular activities that interest you.  Remember to update your contact information at Update Contact Info, so that we can keep you informed about upcoming high school information events and workshops.

Helpful links for San Francisco Unified School District Admissions timeline and information:
- San Francisco Unified School District
- Calfee School Guide

Helpful links for Charter High Schools :
- City Arts and Technology High School
- Metropolitan High School
- Leadership High School
- Gateway High School

High School Admissions Checklist:
The following is an Admissions Checklist for Independent Schools.  If you are interested in applying to a specific school, be sure to visit its website for more detailed information. 

September

• Request an application packet (usually available on the school’s website).  Call the Admissions Office if you have a problem accessing the admissions information on the website.
• Sign up for an Open House as soon as possible, as these can fill up quickly. Usually you sign up by returning a postcard that is included in your application packet. If you're not sure how to sign up for an Open House, contact the school's admissions office.
• Fill in your calendar with all important application process deadlines (Application due dates, testing dates, open house and tour dates). Be sure to note which events you are required to attend.
• Call School Admissions Office to inquire about an Interview, School Visit and/or a Open House.  You must schedule an appointment for a school visit and an interview.  These visits are not required a all schools, but we strongly encourage you to participate in a School Visit. 
• If your school requires it, register for the SSAT or ISEE (a test that many schools require for admission). Note:  January is the last accepted test date.  You must take the SSAT or ISEE Test no later then January.

  Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT)
  Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE)
  
  Test scores must be sent directly from SSAT and ISEE to the  school(s) that you are applying. When you take the test, you will need to identify the schools you are applying to as "score recipients" by writing in their code numbers on your answer sheet. You should be able to find the school code in the admissions packet of the school application, on the school’s website, or by calling the school’s admissions office. It's possible to get the test-taking fee waived - see the note about fee waivers at the end of the checklist under Tips and Tricks.

November

• Ask current teachers to complete recommendation forms or letter.  You should include an addressed, stamped envelope, as teachers are required to mail the letter directly to the school to which you are applying.
• Request official transcripts from your middle school. If you are applying to more that one high school, complete the "Transcript Release Form" for each school that you are applying to, and make sure that each "Transcript Release Form" has a parent/guardian signature. 
• Attend Open Houses and School Visits that you have scheduled.
• Part 1 of the application should be completed by a parent or guardian and submitted to the Admissions Office.
• If you haven't already, request a flexible tuition application, sign up for an open house and/or school visit, and take the SSAT or ISEE.

December

• December 1, Courtesy Deadline Part 1 - Parent/Guardian Application. Request a fee waiver if you qualify (see Tips and Tricks).
• Plan ahead for the financial aid application deadlines and start preparing the forms.
• Flexible Tuition Applications:  If you have requested an application it should arrive early December. 
• Complete the Parent/Guardian Financial Statement (PFS) and send as soon as possible.  Student Interviews are scheduled upon receipt by admissions office.

January

• Final Deadline:  All application materials are due: Part I (Parent/Guardian Application), Part II (Student Application), recommendation forms, official transcripts, test scores, and any additional materials requested by the school.
• Final Deadline: Parent Financial Statement (PFS) due at the School Scholarship Services.
• Attend Financial Aid Workshops if offered by the school that you are applying to. 
  
• Plan to prepare your taxes for Financial Aid Application deadlines.
• Attend Open Houses, School Visits, and Student Interview Days.
• Final Test Dates: ISEE and SSAT. This will be your last opportunity to take the test.

February

• Flexible Tuition Application: Most schools have a February due date (Required forms:  2008 Tax Returns and 4506 Form). Check your application packet or call the Admissions office for more information.

March

• Admissions decision letters are mailed to families.
• Financial Aid grant offers are mailed to families.
• Financial Aid Reply Deadline. Financial aid/Flexible Tuition Enrollment Contracts Due.
• Non-Flexible Tuition Enrollment Contracts are due at the school that you have been accepted.

TIPS & TRICKS: Here are some tips to help you stay organized throughout the process: 

• Don’t be afraid to call the high school admissions counselor to ask questions or request materials - it's their job!
• Ask a teacher, school counselor, or other adult at your school to help you through the application process. 
• Keep one calendar with all important deadlines (application due dates, testing dates, open house and shadow dates, and financial aid application deadlines) for every school to which you are applying. Write down important dates as soon as you get your packet so you won't forget or miss a detail.
• Register for appropriate tests (SSAT, ISEE, HSPT) as early as possible.  If you want to take your test in November or December, call to reserve a space in September or October.
• Application Fee Waivers – It is possible to get the Application Fee waived.  Call the Admissions Office at the schoolto which you are applying and ask about how to apply for a Fee Waiver.  Be prepared to answer questions regarding your financial status - your family's yearly income and the number of people who live in your household.  You may be asked to pay a reduced fee.
• Test fee waivers -To apply for a fee waiver, contact the Admission Office at a school to which you are applying at least four weeks before your test date and before you register for the test.  You must obtain your fee waiver before registering. If you mail your registration, please enclose the original Fee Waiver Coupon.
• Shadowing and attending an Open House at the schools that you are applying can be very helpful.  Call the admissions office and make those appointments!
• The school websites have helpful information.