College Counselling

Introduction

At the Riverside Campus of ISZL, we look towards university preparation to ensure the best possible outcome for the individual student as they look towards tertiary education. The College Counsellor advises students and parents on course choice in school, external testing, and guides the way through the application procedures of various countries' and continents' university systems. Open communication is the key to successful applications as individual wishes are matched with realistic academic and social choices. ISZL arranges psychometric testing to help students decide what they'd like to do. Since finance is important, parents are encouraged to talk to their students about what they can afford well before applications are made. Within school, there is an after-school activity in the first trimester for SAT preparation.

Universities often visit the school to make presentations and students are encouraged to attend.

Year group meetings give overviews of the different varieties of tertiary education on offer so that students are familiar with what a transcript is and its importance for the US and why the choice of course rather than place is so important for the UK. There are group sessions for registration for UCAS or the Common Application. There is no bias towards a certain system over another.

University Entrance Requirements

Students and parents need to be aware of the many different entrance requirements across the world, certainly by the end of Grade 10 as course choices for the final two years are critical. In Europe, either a full IB Diploma, often with a specified number of points in certain subjects, or a number of AP exams with a specified score is the norm. These requirements and their consequences are discussed in conjunction with students, parents and teachers with the College Counsellor.

Grade 10

Formal meetings begin in the 10th grade with a discussion with students and parents about the AP and IB syllabuses and the required subjects for various courses or countries. Parents are welcome to arrange meetings with the College Counsellor before, after school or in the lunch hour, but generally with the student.

Grade 11

In the 11th grade, students are encouraged to attend university presentations and to start meeting regularly with the College Counsellor so that by the end of the year they have a short list of universities to which they intend to apply. The parental role here is to advise and encourage, but it should be remembered that it is the student who has to make the final choice. This exploratory time is one for the student to focus on their learning styles, their aspirations, and to honestly self-evaluate strengths and weaknesses. Drafting of university essays begins late in the year and juniors are encouraged to talk to seniors about their essays.

Grade 12

The 12th grade is the time for applications. Depending on the country and the course, applications can be due as early as 1st September of the senior year or as late as after graduation. Students are advised to ensure they are well-prepared and aware of deadlines. Parents should be aware that universities are in contact with the applicant; not the school, the College Counsellor or the parent. While this may cause confusion, regular and open communication ensures a smooth process. All teachers, particularly the subject specialists for UK applications, are encouraged to talk to students about their university essays. The goal is for the student to be true to themselves; to show their individuality and character that makes them likely candidates for admission to university.