Senior Meetings have started and counselors are busy scheduling appointments with their seniors. Counselors will be meeting with seniors through October.  The Class of 2024 Senior Sheet  will utilize in these meetings. Please ask your student(s) to see the completed sheet following their meeting with their counselor.

Seniors pursuing the military, make sure to reach out to a recruiter. Questions to Ask a Recruiter.

• Air Force
• Marine Corp
• Coast Guard
• Army
• Navy

Seniors pursuing an apprenticeship can find more information here.

As part of this conversation, we will be reviewing students’ standardized test scores.  Below is the 2023-2024 ACT/SAT testing schedule for students still looking to meet standardized test scores for admission requirements or scholarship opportunities.

 SAT/ACT Testing

SAT/ACT Dates

ACT:  www.actstudent.org      SAT: www.collegeboard.org

Exam Date                      Exam       Registration Deadline        Late Reg. Deadline (online)

If eligible for fee waiver you must see your counselor before the registration deadline.  Students may only use a maximum of two for each exam.   

What does “Test Optional” Mean?

Colleges that are test optional de-emphasize the importance of the SAT and ACT by making the tests an unnecessary component of the admission process. So if you took the SAT or ACT but didn't score as highly as you'd hoped you would, you can apply to test-optional colleges in order to avoid having to send in any unsatisfactory test scores that could potentially hurt your application. https://blog.prepscholar.com/test-optional-colleges-list

Important information regarding college applications: 

Students must allow counselors/teachers at least two weeks to complete applications and letters of recommendations. If your deadline is November 1st, all materials need to be provided to your counselor by October 14th. Recommendation sheet (purple sheet)  for students to complete and provide to recommenders.

Here are instructions for sending your transcripts through Parchment, it is important you list Homestead High School (Fort Wayne, IN) as your school.  Please make sure to enter your year of graduation correctly.

Although SAT and ACT scores are on your transcript, most colleges want them sent directly through College Board or ACT.  Students have to make this request; counselors cannot request official scores to be sent.

If applying to colleges using the Common Application, make sure you have email addresses for your recommenders and counselor.  You do NOT have to have your portion of the application completed in order to submit the application to your counselor.  Common Application allows students and counselors to work simultaneously.

Although colleges might offer multiple ways to submit information and transcripts, you should only use one. Priority should be given to Common Application and Parchment.  

Wednesday, October 11th is an opportunity for seniors to job shadow or visit a college. While sophomores and juniors are taking the PSAT on this day, seniors will be afforded the opportunity to gain information on a college or career.

Frequently asked questions regarding college applications: