In recent years, the number of high school graduates who immediately attend college after graduation has risen to just over 70%. As a result, many high school students use their junior and senior year to prepare for their transition to college. There are, however, many things to consider when preparing for college; from college applications to ACT and SAT prep, it is easy to see why many high school students feel overwhelmed during their final two years of schooling. Eva Carlston Academy, a private residential treatment center based in Salt Lake City, Utah, helps prepare their students for college life and aids in all aspects of college prep. Below, Eva Carlston Academy reviews college preparation and how parents and teacher can help prepare their college-bound high schoolers.

ACT and SAT Preparation Classes

While in previous years, many colleges asked students to submit either their ACT or SAT scores, today, the majority of colleges will ask applicants to submit both. For this reason it is crucial that students take the time to prepare for both tests and understand the different components of each test. Although students are able to prepare for the tests individually, it is recommended that high school students enroll in an ACT or SAT prep course so an instructor can answer any questions the student may have. Eva Carlston Academy offers all students ACT and SAT preparation courses to ensure all students have the experience and knowledge necessary to receive exceptional marks on both tests.

College Essays

It is common for students to feel overwhelmed when drafting a college essay and may not know where to start. When starting a college entrance essay, students should view writing as a way to introduce themselves to college admissions committee members. The majority of colleges select students based on test scores and GPA, however, when deciding between two candidates, the deciding factor is most often their college essays. A good college essay will set a candidate apart from other students and describe what’s important to them, who they are, and why a college should want them to be a part of their student body. Today, Eva Carlston Academy offers a credit bearing elective course that teaches students the fundamentals of the college application process including the elements of successful essay writing.

College Applications

Most students begin applying to colleges during the summer before their senior year in order to meet colleges’ early admission deadlines. When it comes to college applications, the early a student starts the better. Often times, a high school student will know a handful of the colleges they would like to apply to and be able to meet these school’s college deadlines. If a student wants to apply to a new school, however, it is important they have ample time to complete the additional applications. The dedicated staff at Eva Carlston Academy help students by facilitating the application process and aiding in college research.