Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
Early decision is a binding commitment and if accepted, you must attend that school. This is not recommended unless you absolutely know for sure that this wiil be your first choice school. UF and University of Miami have early decision plans.Back to Top
This allows the student to apply early, be notified of the decision, but is NOT binding on the student. Obviously, this is a good plan since it keeps your options open while still allowing you to receive early notification. UM has an Early Action plan.Back to Top
Apply by the regular deadline stated and you will be notified in April of the decision. If you are deferred from Early Decision or Early Action, you will be placed in Regular Decision.Back to Top
Most Florida schools admit students on a "rolling" basis. Once a school has a completed applications and documentation, they make a decision in a few weeks. This is one reason to apply as early as possible.Back to Top
How do I check my application status?
Always go on line to check your status with the college. If any part of your package is missing, you should be notified.Back to Top
What is the procedure for applying to college?
Send completed application to the college. This can be done on line. Register and take the SAT or ACT. Send scores to colleges. Watch deadlines. Send transcript to college. (You can do that in the main office) Send in application fee. Some colleges have other requirements: essays, letters of recommendaton, resume, etc. It is important for you to check with the college to see what they require.Back to Top
Is it important to pay attention to deadlines?
Students should make sure that all materials arrive at the college in advance of the deadline! Don't be a procrastinator because you might be left out!!If you're applying regular decision, the earlier you apply, the better you have of acceptance--if you wait until the deadline, the freshman class may be filled and you won't get inBack to Top
What is a scholarship scam? What signs do I look for?
Unfortunately, in their efforts to pay bills, many students and their families are falling prey to scholarship scams. These are not in the best interests of our students. Students are cautioned to look for tell tale signs. 1. "The scholarship is guaranteed or your money back." 2. "You can't get this information anywhere else." 3. "I need your credit card or bank account to hold this scholarship". 4. "We'll do all the work". 5. "The scholarship will cost you some money". 6. "You've been selected by a 'national foundation' to receive a schol- ship" or You're a finalist" in a contest you never entered. 7. You may receive a letter advertising a "free" seminar for college research and financial aid. Often ties they are cleverly disguised sales pitches for consulting services. SEE YOUR CAP ADVISOR BEFORE YOU SIGN ANY PAPERS!!!Back to Top
What do colleges look at in selecting you?
Admissions officers consider these factors in roughly the following order of importance. 1. Grade Point average/difficulty of curriculum 2. SAT, or ACT 3. Class rank 4. Application essays 5. Extracurricular activities 6. Recommendations 7. Interviews 8. IntangiblesBack to Top
A community college is a two year college on which you earn an associate degree. There are two types of associate degrees--an associate of arts, (AA) which is an academic type of degree. It allows you to transfer, as a junior, to a four year college. The other type of associate degree is an associate of science degree, (AS) which gives you training in the technical or occupational programs. It prepares you for employment when completed.Back to Top
Do you have to take a test at a Community College?
A community college requires that you take the CPT (College Placement Test) before you enter. It measures your English ability and Math. You must score an acceptable level in order to begin college level classes. You may also take the SAT or ACT in place of the CPT. If your scores are not high enough, you will be required to take remedial classes, which you must pass.Back to Top
Accreditation is recognition of a school, college or university by any of the regional or national accrediting bodies indicating that the institution as a whole has been judged to have met certain requirements. Any institution a student considers attending should be accredited or the degree or certificate earned might not be recognized.Back to Top
(BA--Bachelor or Arts or BS--Bacheor of Science) the degree normally granted by a college or university to students who complete a prescribed program which usually takes four or five years.Back to Top
Bright Futures is a scholarship program for students who go to school in the state of Forida. To be eligible, you must take the SAT or ACT, and have the necessary GPA in the required high school classes. The CAP office has brochures for you and instructions in how to apply. Students may go to www.FACTS.org for a comparison of their transcripts with Bright Futures academic requuirements. You must apply during your last year in high school or you will forfeit all future eligibility for a Bright Futures Scholarship. Scholarships apply to all eligible Florida institutions.Back to Top