Title Page (Do not tab this page.)
Include your name, the name of your school, year of graduation, and your picture. Recommended picture size is 2" x 3"
Military Affiliation (Tab) (May not apply to all students.)
If your parent/guardian is affiliated with a branch of the US Military Service and you have a military ID card, copy photo side only of your ID and include it in this section. Make the copy as clear as possible and center it on the page.
Student Information Sheet (Tab) (sample enclosed)
Be sure to read the certification statement at the bottom of the form, sign it, and have your parent(s)/guardian(s) sign it.
Personal Essay (Tab) (1.5 to 2 pages, double-spaced)
The personal essay may include a variety of topics. Examples include information about your family, where you have lived, your accomplishments, your future plans for your post-secondary education, why you chose your major, a role model, person or event that inspired you, your career goals, where you hope to live, and plans for financing your post-secondary education. Essay writing tips are available in your high school career resource center.
Academic Information (Tab)
Include a copy of your transcript (unofficial and updated), the latest GPA highlighted with a yellow marker. Next, include "Current Classes and Test Scores" sheet. This must be followed by SAT and/or ACT, official score report(s). AP and TOEFL scores may be included. Your transcript shows your High School Qualifying Exam status. Please do not include ASVAB, Placement Testing, PLAN or PSAT scores.
Activities and Awards (Tab) (samples enclosed)
Include, in this order, the enclosed "School Activities," "Community Activities," "Work Experience," and "Recognition and Awards" sheets. In addition, in this section it is important that you include documentation or proof of activities, work experience, and awards (certificates, programs, newspaper articles, verification of employment, congratulatory letters, pictures of trophies or ribbons, etc.). Include documentation from grades 9-12 only.
Recommendations (Tab)
List the names and positions of the people who have written you letters. Include four letters (two from school staff members and two from people outside of school), but no more that five. A "Request for Letter of Recommendation" worksheet is enclosed.
It is best to use adults who know you well. You should include teachers and high school staff members, employers, and community leaders and family friends. Give each person adequate time to write your letter (at least 2-3 weeks) and remember to show your appreciation with a thank you note.
Financial Information (Tab)
To estimate your costs, refer to resources in your CRC, Internet (www.collegeboard.com) or specific schools. Included is a "Hidden College Costs" sheet for you to consider. You must plan costs and resources for one year. Do not include any dollars you expect to borrow. Use the enclosed "Budget" sheet. Make additional copies if you are applying to more than 3 schools.
It is acceptable that your parent(s)/guardian(s) write their own statement giving general information about family finances, financial need, or unusual or exceptional circumstances. Place this statement behind the budget sheet.
School Acceptances (Tab)
When you first submit your portfolio, list the school to which you are applying. This acts as a placeholder. Later, as acceptance letters arrive, include them in your portfolio.
Other Information (Optional) (Tab)
Use this section to demonstrate anything that is significant in your life, yet did not fit into any previous sections. Do not use it to make your folder "thicker." Many students do not include an "Other Information" section at all because their materials were all mentioned and documented previously in the portfolio. Your resume may be included in this section.
Appreciation Statement (Tab)
This is a short statement showing appreciation to those who took the time to review your portfolio. Be sure to sign the statement using black ink.
