College Prep Dossier
Four years of high school is a significant amount of time. Creating a comprehensive file or dossier to record your academic journey is a crucial step in college preparation. Here’s a guide to help you set up your college prep file:
Attendance record
- Create a spreadsheet or document to log daily attendance.
- Include dates, classes attended, and any notes on absences or tardiness.
Course completion
- List all the courses you’ve completed each year.
- Note the course level (regular, honors, AP, IB, etc.) and the final grade received.
Grades
- Maintain a separate section for your grades.
- Update it each term with grades from report cards or transcripts.
- Calculate your GPA for each term and overall.
Achievements
- Document any academic awards, honors, or recognitions.
- Include extracurricular achievements, leadership roles, and community service.
Standardized Test Scores
- Keep a record of standardized test dates and scores (SAT, ACT, etc.).
- Note any improvements or changes in subsequent test attempts.
Letters of Recommendation
- Track who you’ve asked for letters of recommendation.
- Note the date requested and the date received.
College Application details
- List the colleges you’re applying to, application deadlines, and requirements.
- Keep track of application components submitted (essays, application forms, etc.).
Financial Aid Information:
- Record scholarship applications, deadlines, and awarded amounts.
- Include information on FAFSA submission and other financial aid forms.
Backup and Updates:
- Regularly back up your file to avoid data loss.
- Update your file promptly with new information to keep it current.
