Paying for College/Scholarship 101

Presented by College Access Fairfax A non-profit FCPS partner organization

Cost of Attendance (COA)

The COA is an estimate of the total costs for attending a particular school for one year.

• Included in this estimate:Tuition, housing and food, books and supplies, personal expenses, and transportation expenses.
• 2025-2026 Examples:
  • University of Virginia:$40,468
  • Virginia Tech:$42,774
  • University of Maryland:$62,374
  • Wake Forest University:$94,600
  • Northern Virginia Community College (living at home):$21,706

Sources and Types of Financial Aid

Funding used to bridge the gap between COA and what a family is expected to pay (Student Aid Index or SAI) comes from:

• Sources:Federal government, states, colleges and universities, private foundations, civic/professional organizations, and employers.
• Types:Grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.

Required Application Forms

Students should check with each institution to determine which specific forms are required.

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid):Required by almost all institutions to determine federal and state aid eligibility. Available starting October 1, 2025.
• VASA (Virginia Alternative State Aid):For Virginians who are undocumented, have DACA status, or are otherwise ineligible for FAFSA.
• CSS Profile:Required by about 250 institutions for institutional aid. Free for families with income of $100,000 or below.

Determination of Financial Need

Institutions use the following formula to determine need: COA (Cost of Attendance) - SAI (Student Aid Index) - OFA (Other Financial Assistance) = Financial Need

Scholarships: Tips and Resources

• Why Apply?Scholarships are awarded for various criteria (merit, talent, community involvement, etc.), and many opportunities go un-awarded due to a lack of applicants.
• When to Apply:Scholarship season typically runs from October through May.
• Search Engines and Websites:
  • Fastweb
  • Sallie Mae Scholarship Search
  • CollegeNET
  • Cappex
  • Free-4U
  • International Scholarships

Naviance

• A comprehensive, web-based resource which supports students and parents as they make decisions about academic plans, colleges, and careers.
• Accessible at: www.fcps.edu/naviance
• Can also be accessed through Schoology.

Contact Information

• Website: www.collegeaccessfairfax.org
• Email: @email
• Phone: 571-308-3230

Demystifying College Admissions

Presented by George Mason University

Presentation Goals

1. Develop a roadmap for the college application process.
2. Provide tips and insight to make these processes less stressful and easier to manage.

General Timeline

• March of Junior Year:Start visiting schools, building a college list, and beginning SAT/ACT prep and exams.
• April/May:Register for Senior year classes and take AP/IB exams.
• End of Junior Year:Make summer plans.
• August 1:Submit Early applications and start work on application supplements.
• October:Write your personal statement, begin and submit financial aid applications, and request teacher recommendation letters.
• November/December of Senior Year:Continue submitting applications.

Application Deadlines (Fall of Senior Year)

• Early Action:Apply late October/early November; hear back in December; decide by May 1.
• Early Decision (Binding):Apply late October/early November; hear back in December; committed upon admission.
• Early Decision II (Binding):Apply in January; hear back in February; committed upon admission.
• Regular Decision:Apply in January/February; hear back in March/April; decide by May 1.
• Additional Deadlines:Be aware of specific deadlines for scholarships, Honors Colleges, and auditions/portfolio reviews.

Testing and Scores

• AP/IB:Earning college credit for high school work is worthwhile.
• SAT/ACT:Commit to one and spend time prepping.
• Test-Optional Policies:Many schools leave the decision to submit scores to the student. Use published score ranges to help decide whether to submit.
• Resource: Compass Prep

Letters of Recommendation

• Typically requires two teachers and one optional "other" recommender.
• Choose recommenders who know you best and consider those relevant to your intended major.
• Provide your recommenders with a clear timeline and guidance.

The Personal Statement (College Essay)

• A 650-word essay focused on "you."
• This is a unique genre of writing; it is highly recommended to find an outside reader for feedback.
• Resource: College Essay Guy

Financial Aid and Scholarships

• FAFSA:Available October 1. Provides access to federal grants/loans, state-funded grants, and need-based institutional funding.
• VASA:An alternative application for Virginia residents who do not qualify for the FAFSA to access state-funded grants.
• Tips:Apply to scholarships in your community and at your specific schools. Apply even if you aren't sure of eligibility.
• Recommended Resources:
  • Common App
  • Fastweb
  • College Greenlight
  • College Board’s Big Future

George Mason University Contact Information

• Phone: (703) 993-2400
• Email: @email
• Address:4400 University Dr, MSN 3A4, Fairfax, VA 22030-4444
• Links: College Website | Virtual Tour

The College Essay

Presented by:Stacey Thomas (College of Charleston) and Robyn Komar (University of Louisville) Developed by Kara Stamper (Centreville High School) and Stacey Thomas (College of Charleston)

Debunking the Myths

• Myth:You must write about something no one has ever written about.
• Myth:There is a right answer to every question.
• Myth:You must be funny, clever, or wacky.
• Myth:You have to write this essay alone.
• Fact:"A great essay can heal the sick, but can't raise the dead." — Dean of Brown University (Meaning: An essay enhances a strong application but cannot overcome academic disqualifiers).

General Tips for a Great Essay

• The Goal:It is most important to choose a topic that means something to YOU. The essay is the heart and soul of your application.
• Self-Promotion:Don’t be afraid to brag a little. You’ve worked hard for your accomplishments.
• "The Hook":Capture the reader's attention within the first two sentences.
• Be Descriptive:Use details and your five senses. Show, don't just tell.
  • Example: Instead of saying "I want to help people," describe a specific moment of service that illustrates that desire.

The Writing Process

• Finding a Topic:Reflect on your values, identity, and the moments that shaped you.
• Ordinary is Okay:You don't need a life-altering tragedy. There is beauty and insight in "the ordinary."
• Length:Aim for approximately 500–650 words (depending on the platform).
• Narrative Voice:Write in the first person ("I" statements).

What to Do Now

• Draft a Personal Statement:Start writing a narrative response that can be used for both college and scholarship applications.
• Tweak and Refine:Once you have a master version, you can save and adjust it for specific prompts.
• Final Checklist:Your essay should be:
  • Thoughtful and Insightful
  • Well-organized
  • Error-free

Resources for Further Learning

• Yale Admissions Podcast:Insights from Admissions Officers across three episodes.
  • Episode 4: What Works
  • Episode 5: What Doesn't Work
  • Episode 6: The Little Stuff
• The College Essay Guy (Ethan Sawyer):
  • YouTube Channel
  • Essay Writing Crash Course
• Johns Hopkins University:
  • Essays That Worked (with examples)

Get Common App Ready!

Presented by:Meredith Lombardi, Director of Education & Training Common App, Inc. — March 5, 2026

What is Common App?

Common App is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to access, equity, and integrity in the college admission process.

• One Platform:Explore over 1,100 colleges and manage all applications in one place.
• Financial Aid:Connect to resources for financial aid and scholarships.
• Member Diversity:Includes over 1,100 institutions, 350+ public schools, and 60+ international members across 15+ countries.
• Affordability:Over 600 member schools charge no application fee.

Common App in Virginia

Virginia has 35 member institutions, including 15 public universities such as:

• Christopher Newport University
• George Mason University
• James Madison University
• University of Virginia
• Virginia Tech
• William & Mary

Student Opportunities & Support

Common App provides several tools to help students navigate the path to college:

• Common App Solutions Center:24/7/365 support for students and recommenders.
• Mobile App:Search for colleges, manage your deadline list, and set reminders on the go.
• Next Step Postsecondary Partners:Connections to organizations like BigFuture , Carnegie Mellon Computer Science Academy , and Khan Academy .

Application Walkthrough: The Seven Sections

The "Common App" tab contains seven sections that are shared with every school you apply to:

1. Profile:Basic information (Name, address, demographics).
2. Family:Information about parents/guardians and siblings.
3. Education:High school details, GPA, and current course list.
4. Testing:Self-report SAT, ACT, AP, or IB scores (if you choose).
5. Activities:List up to 10 extracurricular activities (sports, jobs, family responsibilities).
6. Writing:The Personal Statement (650 words) and the "Additional Information" section.
7. Courses & Grades:(Only required by some schools) Self-reporting your high school transcript.

Managing Your College List

• College Search:Search by name, location, deadline, or even "no application fee."
• My Colleges Tab:This is where you complete school-specific questions, assign recommenders, and submit your final application.
• Writing Supplements:Some schools require additional essays or "Why us?" responses found in this tab.

Helpful Resources

Video Guides

• First-year Application Walkthrough
• Approaching the Activities Section
• [suspicious link removed]

Planning Tools

• Common App Plan — Grade-level checklists and family resources.
• Application Guide — A step-by-step guide for first-year students.
• Financial Aid Resources — Information on FAFSA and scholarships.

24/7 Technical Support

• Student Support Portal
• Recommender Support Portal

NCAA Athletics: Divisions and Eligibility

Presented by George Mason University Athletics Centreville High School Junior Focus Day

Understanding NCAA Divisions

Division III

• Philosophy:Ensures athletics are an integral part of a well-rounded college experience.
• Focus:Allows student-athletes to focus on academic programs and earning a degree.
• Composition:80% private schools, 20% public schools. Sponsors 28 championships annually.

Division II

• Focus:Healthy rivalries, inclusive culture, and community engagement.
• Travel:Closer competition travel often allows for more family engagement.
• Mission:Strong educational mission and "Preparation for Life."

Division I

• The Goal:To be eligible for practice, competition, and athletic scholarships on Day 1 of Freshman year.
• Requirement:You must be a "NCAA Qualifier."

What is a "Qualifier"? (Division I)

To be eligible to play at a DI school, you must:

1. Graduate from High School.
2. Complete 16 Core Courseswith a minimum 2.3 GPA.
   • 4 Years: English
   • 3 Years: Math (Algebra 1 or higher)
   • 2 Years: Natural/Physical Science
   • 1 Year: Additional English, Math, or Science
   • 2 Years: Social Science
   • 4 Years: Additional courses (Foreign Language, Philosophy, Religion, etc.)

Recruiting Timelines

Division I

• Recruiting Materials:Coaches can start sending electronic correspondence (emails/texts) on June 15thafter your Sophomore year (dates vary slightly by sport).
• Off-Campus Contact:Coaches may begin off-campus contact and official visits starting August 1stof your Junior year.

Division II

• Recruiting Conversations:Coaches can start recruiting conversations beginning June 15thof your Junior year.

How to Reach Out to Coaches

• Initiate Contact Early:Coaches typically track interested athletes even if they cannot legally respond yet.
• Utilize Connections:Use your travel, club, and high school coaches to help bridge the gap.
• Attend Events:Go to ID camps and invite coaches to watch you compete.
• Research:Identify schools that are a good fit both athletically and educationally.
• Visit:Visit campuses to get a feel for the environment.

The Application Process & Building Your Resume

• Broaden Your Search:Apply to multiple schools and keep your options open.
• Research Funding:Look into both Financial Aid and Athletic/Academic Scholarships.
• Build a Strong Profile:
  • Volunteer and join clubs.
  • Try multiple sports (coaches value multi-sport athletes).
  • Reach for accolades and awards.
• References:Request letters of recommendation from teachers and coaches.

Explore Opportunities with ACE

Presented by FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE)

What is Adult and Community Education?

ACE provides career-focused education designed for working adults and students looking to enter the workforce quickly.

• Program Areas:Trades and Apprenticeships, Business and IT, and Health and Medical.
• Locations:All classes are offered at Fairfax High Schools or Learning Centers.
• Schedule:Classes are designed not to disrupt a daytime work schedule.
• Funding:Many students are sponsored by employers, receive WIOA grants, or obtain ACE scholarships.

Driver's Education Services

ACE is a trusted source for comprehensive Driver's Education programs taught by certified instructors.

• DMV Adult Learner’s Permit Testing:Small group testing conducted at Fairfax Adult Learning Centers ($15 fee).
• Teen Licensure:Includes classroom Driver Ed (Summer only) and Partners for Safe Teen Driving.
• Resources: Find a Test Date and Register

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways

Health and Medical

Programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the healthcare field.

• Courses include:Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Veterinary Assistant.

Trades and Apprenticeships

Hands-on training for high-demand technical careers.

• Apprenticeships:Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, and Carpentry.
• Technical Skills:Welding and Heavy Equipment Operation.

Shutterstock

Business and IT

Focuses on essential certifications and skills for the modern office environment.

• Focus Areas:Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification, Accounting, and Project Management.

Advantages of the ACE Program

• Local:Conveniently located within Fairfax County.
• Inexpensive:Provides scholarship opportunities, payment plans, and employer sponsorship.
• Career-Focused:Programs are specifically aligned to local workforce needs and hiring partners.
• Inclusive:A great fit for all students, including those who need extra support but may not qualify for other state programs.

How to Get Started

• Browse the Catalog: Current ACE Catalog
• Email a Counselor: @email
• Administrator Contact:Paul Steiner, ACE Administrator ( @email )
• Follow on Instagram:@FairfaxACE

Discover NOVA: Northern Virginia Community College

Presented by Outreach and Recruitment

About NOVA

Established in 1964, NOVA is one of the largest community colleges in the United States, serving over 70,000 students across Northern Virginia.

• Campus Locations:Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Medical Education (Springfield), and Woodbridge.
• NOVA Online:Offers flexible distance learning for over 26,000 students.
• Diverse Community:60.5% minority population with representation from over 150 countries.

Academic Offerings

NOVA offers more than 100 associate degree and certificate programs across various fields:

• Arts, Communication & Humanities
• Business & Hospitality
• Education & Social Sciences
• Health Sciences(Nursing, Dental Hygiene, etc.)
• Information Technology & Computer Science
• Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)

Transfer Opportunities (ADVANCE & GAA)

NOVA is a top transfer institution, particularly to four-year universities in Virginia.

ADVANCE Program

A partnership between NOVA and George Mason University (GMU) that streamlines the transfer process.

• Benefits:Single point of admission, dedicated success coaches, and financial savings.
• Link: Learn more about ADVANCE

Guaranteed Admission Agreements (GAA)

NOVA has agreements with over 50 colleges and universities. If you meet the required GPA and course requirements, your admission is guaranteed.

• Top Partners:UVA, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, James Madison University, and VCU.

Cost and Financial Aid

NOVA offers a high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of four-year institutions.

• Tuition (2025-2026):Approximately $185.50 per credit hour (In-state).
• FAFSA:Use school code 003727to apply for federal grants, work-study, and loans.
• VASA (Virginia Alternative State Aid):For students ineligible for FAFSA (undocumented, DACA, etc.) to access state-funded grants.
• Scholarships:NOVA offers internal scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,000.

Student Support Services

• Academic Advising:Helping you pick the right classes for your goals.
• Tutoring:Free services available in-person and online.
• Career Services:Assistance with resumes, interviews, and job searches.
• Office of Wellness and Mental Health:Supporting student well-being.

How to Apply

1. Apply Online:Create an account and submit your application at the NOVA Application Portal .
2. Determine Placement:Provide high school transcripts or take placement tests for English and Math.
3. Attend Orientation:Learn how to navigate college life and register for your first semester.

Contact Information

• General Inquiries: Admissions Contact Form
• Phone: 703-323-3000
• Updates: Complete this form to receive important updates from NOVA

Getting Ready for Senior Year

Class of 2027 — Presented April 14, 2026

Options for Your Future

Explore various post-secondary pathways using the FCPS College & Career Google Site (requires @fcpsschools.net login):

• College:2-year and 4-year options.
• Military:Enlistment and ROTC.
• Training and Apprenticeships:Trade schools and hands-on career paths.
• Gap Year Programs:Structured time off before starting further education.
• Employment:Entering the workforce directly.

College Application Types

There are several platforms and methods to apply to colleges:

• Common App : The most widely used platform with over 1,000 partner colleges.
• Individual College Websites:Some schools use their own specific application portals.
• Common Black College App : Apply to multiple Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for a single $20 fee.

Admission Options Defined

Understanding the timeline and commitment level of your application is crucial:

Non-Restrictive Plans

• Regular Decision:Submit by a specified date and receive a decision in a clearly stated period.
• Rolling Admission:Institutions review applications as they are submitted and render decisions throughout the cycle.
• Early Action (EA):Students apply early and receive a decision well in advance of the institution’s regular response date.

Restrictive Plans

• Early Decision (ED):A bindingcommitment. If accepted, you must enroll and withdraw all other applications.
• Restrictive Early Action (REA):You apply to one school early and may not apply to other schools' early plans, but the decision is non-binding.

Application Components

Colleges typically look at the following "holistic" factors:

• Transcript:Your courses and grades from grades 9 through 11 (and senior year mid-year reports).
• Test Scores:SAT or ACT (if required/submitted).
• Letters of Recommendation:Usually from a counselor and one or two teachers.
• Personal Statement/Essays:Your opportunity to share your unique voice.
• Resume/Extracurriculars:Your activities, leadership, and work experience.

Using Naviance Student

Naviance is the primary tool for FCPS students to research colleges and manage the application process.

• Self-Discovery:Take the "AchieveWorks" assessments to find careers that match your personality and skills.
• Roadtrip Nation:Watch thousands of interviews with professionals to find your "road."
• College Research:Use the "SuperMatch" tool to find schools that fit your criteria.
• Scattergrams:View historical data from your high school to see how your GPA and test scores compare to previously admitted students.
• Scholarships:Access a database of local and national scholarship opportunities.

Important Deadlines & Actions

• Questionnaires:Complete the student and parent/guardian questionnaires and resume in Naviance. Turn them in to your counselor by Friday, September 11, 2026.
• Testing:Research the SAT and ACT . Check FairTest for the most updated list of test-optional schools.
  • Fee Waivers:SAT waivers are available online from College Board; ACT waivers are available from the College & Career Center.
• Opportunities Booklet:Review the Opportunities Booklet Checklist for a month-by-month guide.

Financial Aid Resources

Review financial aid types (grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships) on the FCPS Google Site .

• FAFSA:The Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
• VASA:Virginia Alternative State Aid for students ineligible for FAFSA.
• CSS Profile:Required by some private institutions for institutional aid.

Junior Summer Checklist & Reminders

Preparing for the Class of 2027 Senior Year

Summer Action Plan

The summer is a critical time to research and decide on your post-secondary plans. Remember: this is YOUR JOURNEY!

• Research Applications:If applying to colleges, start looking at specific applications, brainstorm essay ideas, and consider which teachers you will ask for letters of recommendation.
• Visit Schools:Visit campuses of interest now, or plan visits for the fall when colleges are back in full session.
• Common App:Start your Common App account early if you want a head start on 4-year university applications.
• Required Paperwork:Complete the Student and Parent/Guardian Questionnairesand your Resumein Naviance. Turn these into your counselor by Friday, September 11, 2026.
• Checklist Resource:Review the Opportunities Booklet Checklist (available in English and Spanish) for a monthly guide to the process.

Standardized Tests (SAT & ACT)

Over 70% of U.S. colleges and universities will be test-optionalfor the next admissions cycle, meaning they will not require SAT or ACT scores for admission.

Action Plan & Resources

• Research:Check FairTest and individual university websites for the most updated testing policies.
• Comparison:Research both the SAT and ACT to see if one is a better fit for your testing style.
• Fee Waivers:* SAT:Waivers are available online directly from College Board .
  • ACT:Waivers are available through Mrs. Stamper in the College & Career Center.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Start familiarizing yourself with the costs and funding options for your future plans.

• FCPS Resources:Review the financial aid resources on the FCPS Google Site (requires @fcpsschools.net login).
• Key Terms:
  • Grants, Loans, and Work-Study:Understand the different types of federal and state aid.
  • FAFSA & VASA:Learn the difference between the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and the Virginia Alternative State Aid.
  • CSS Profile:Check if your target schools require this additional financial form.
• Scholarships:Use Naviance to find local and national scholarship opportunities.
• Workshops:Attend or watch recorded workshops offered by College Access Fairfax .
• Expert Help:Contact the Financial Aid Champion, Mrs. Horowitz, at @email for an appointment.

Stay Informed

• Newsletter:Read the weekly College & Career Cornernewsletter for updates and upcoming deadlines.
• Enjoy your summer!Graduation will be here before you know it.

Planning for College Workshop

Presenter:Dante Evans, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions, UNC Greensboro

Finding Your Path

There is a "path for everyone" when it comes to post-secondary education. Consider these factors when choosing:

• Type of Institution:2-year or 4-year; Public or Private.
• Location:In-State or Out-of-State.
• Programs:Business, Nursing, eSports, etc.
• Personal Interests:Sports (Basketball/Football schools) or familiarity (Alumni parents).
• Affordability:Evaluating the total cost of attendance.

Understanding Admissions Statistics

While elite schools receive much of the attention, college is more accessible than many realize:

• Average Acceptance Rate:The average acceptance rate to a 4-year institution is 73%.
• Admission Distribution:774 schools admit 76-100% of applicants; 976 schools admit 51-75% of applicants.
• Selective Schools:Only about 70 institutions admit less than 25% of applicants.

Timeline: Timing is Everything

• 9th Grade:The process begins with your first high school courses.
• Junior Year:Often considered the most important year for research and academic standing.
• Senior Year:Focus on applying in the fall versus the spring.

Application Plans

Non-Restrictive Plans (Non-Binding)

• Regular Decision:Submit by a specified deadline and receive a decision by a designated date.
• Rolling Admission:Schools review applications as they are submitted throughout the cycle.
• Early Action (EA):Apply early and receive a decision well in advance; you have until May 1 to confirm.

Restrictive Plans

• Early Decision (ED):A bindingcommitment to a first-choice school. If admitted, you must enroll.
• Restrictive Early Action (REA):You apply early to one school and may be restricted from applying to other schools early.

Tips for Sophomores & Juniors

• Research Testing:Look into the PSAT, ACT, SAT, and schools that are FairTest.org (test-optional).
• Documentation:Start a file for your resume, community service records, and awards.
• Visits:Plan virtual or in-person visits and watch virtual tours.
• Curriculum:Investigate Honors, AP, or IB courses at your school.
• Engagement:Continue extracurriculars and seek leadership roles.

How Admissions Decisions are Made

Colleges look at "the whole pie" using two types of criteria:

Objective Criteria

• Academic course selection (Grades 9-12).
• Overall academic performance and senior courses in progress.
• Test Scores (ACT/SAT) or Test-Optional status.

Subjective Criteria

• Extracurricular activities.
• Essays (Note: There is no such thing as an "optional" essay).
• Letters of Recommendation and Interviews.
• Social Media:A 2023 study found that 67% of admissions officers believe checking social media is "fair game" for making decisions.

Contact Information

For further questions, contact: Dante EvansEmail: @email

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-and-career-plans/college-education-planning/events-college-and-career-planning

CVHS Class of 2026 Senior Seminar

Presented August 2025

Post-Secondary Options

Students have several paths to explore after high school:

• Work Force
• 2-Year College
• 4-Year College
• Military
• Gap Year
• Apprenticeship & Technical Schoo

For more information on preparing and paying for college, visit the VDOE Post-secondary Opportunities webpage and Level Up Virginia .

Military Options

• Service Academies:Nominations are due soon; contact your Congressional representative or counselor.
• ROTC Scholarships:Apply directly to the specific military branch and university:
  • Navy ROTC
  • Army ROTC
  • Air Force ROTC
• Enlistment:Recruiters are available in the cafeteria on Tuesdays during lunches.
• ASVAB:Offered at CVHS on Friday, December 3rd (Registration opens in November).

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)

• Contact:Eunice Torkornoo, NOVA Counselor ( @email ).
• Info Session:November 10 in the CVHS Lecture Hall.
• Programs:* Guaranteed Admission Agreements and ADVANCE Partnership with GMU.
  • G3 Initiative : "Get a Skill, Get a Job, Get Ahead".
  • Free Tuition:Available for qualified students in fields like Criminal Justice, Education, Computer Science, IT, and Engineering

College Application Process

1. Research:Use Naviance and university websites.
2. Applications:Use Common App or school-specific sites.
3. Consent Form:Complete the IS-111 Consent to Release Records(Required for ALL seniors) and submit to @email .
4. Transcripts:Submit a request form for each college at least 30 calendar daysbefore the deadline.
5. Questionnaires:Complete Student and Parent questionnaires by September 12.
6. Test Scores:Send standardized scores if required by the college.
7. Financial Aid:Complete the FAFSA or VASA starting October 1st.

College Visits & Events at CVHS

• CVHS College Fair:Thursday, October 9, 9:30–10:45 AM in the gym (Register via school email).
• University Info Sessions (during ROAR/CATS):
  • Oct. 7: GMU
  • Oct. 14: William & Mary and VCU
  • Oct. 16: Virginia Tech
  • Oct. 21: JMU
  • Oct. 23: UVA
• Note:Register in Naviance 24 hours in advance and notify your teacher.

Standardized Testing

• SAT/ACT:Register at collegeboard.org or act.org .
• School-Day SAT:Offered at CVHS on October 8th. Sign up by Sept. 3rd.
• Fee Waivers:Contact @email for ACT or apply via College Board for SAT.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

• FAFSA & VASA:Applications open October 1st.
• Assistance:Contact Bonnie Horowitz ( @email ) for individual FAFSA help.
• Workshop:CVHS FAFSA Workshop on January 22 during ROAR in the library.
• Search:Check Naviance and the College & Career Corner newsletter for scholarships.

Counselor Contacts (by Student Last Name)

Please use @fcps.eduemail addresses when inviting staff to applications.

Alphabet	Counselor	Email
A-Cap	Shantell Russ	@email
Car-El	Donna Thompson	@email
En-Ho	Dana Doss	@email
Hs-Kr	Jean No	@email
Ku-Moh	Kim Theberge	@email
Mol-Raj	Grace Kim	@email
Ral-Sta	Kate Foussekis	@email
Ste-Z	Autumn Koo	@email
ML 1-2	Saira Villeda	@email

College & Career Specialist:Kara Stamper ( @email ).