Frequently Asked Questions

An AA/AS is an Associate's degree and generally takes two years to complete at a community college.

A BA/BS is a Bachelor’s degree and typically takes at least four years to complete at a 4-year college or university.

If you start at a community college after high school, you are able to transfer to a 4-year college after completing 2 years (60 units). At the 4-year college, you will complete 2 more years before receiving a BA/BS.

If you plan to go directly to a 4-year college after high school, you need to retake the grading period(s) in which you earned a “D”. Non-college preparatory classes do not apply to this rule.

If you plan to attend a community college after high school, you do not need to retake the class, but you would be better prepared for college level work if you did.

An average number of colleges to apply to is about 6-7. You could apply to 1-2 "reach" schools (competitive, less likely to get accepted), 2-3 moderate schools, and 1-2 safe schools (highly likely to get accepted). You should not need to apply to more than 10 schools.

Consider and prioritize what is most important to you: location (city vs suburban vs rural, in-state vs out-of-state), programs/majors offered, campus/class size, financial aid offered, campus life (athletics, clubs, Greek life, etc), study abroad programs, etc. Talking with your guidance counselor may be helpful for you. You can also utilize the college search tools found on this webpage.

If you are going to a community college or tech/trade school, you do NOT need to take the SAT/ACT.

If you are going directly to 4 year college/university, you may need to take the SAT/ACT.

UCs and CSUs no longer consider SAT/ACT test scores in their admissions decisions.

If you are applying to private universities or out-of-state colleges, check with each school to see if they are accepting scores. If they are "test-optional", it is up to you whether you would like to take the SAT/ACT. It is encouraged, however, that you take the test and submit your scores. Schools like to see that you've challenged yourself. Also, if your scores are better than average, it may positively influence your admissions decision.

YES, everyone should apply for financial aid regardless of GPA or family income level. Even if you do not qualify for federal/state aid, most colleges will ask for each of their students to file a FAFSA/CADAA. Financial aid is given for different reasons and can be used at all different types of colleges: 2 year, 4 year, and tech/trade schools. Students should apply for financial aid starting in October of their senior year of high school. Click here for more information.

There are fee waivers you can request when registering to take the SAT or ACT and when you apply to college. You qualify for a fee waiver if you are enrolled in the RJUHSD Free & Reduced Lunch Program for the current school year. Visit the College & Career Center for more information.

"I have no idea what I'm doing" is a common phrase I hear when students stop by the College & Career Center for some help. Deep breaths, you will be alright! I know that Fall semester of your senior year can be really overwhelming and stressful. Here's a handbook I made that walks you through applying to college, scholarship searching, and learning about financial aid options:

Mrs. Lott's How-to Handbook