The college admission process can seem like an overwhelming task. Requests for transcripts, teacher and counselor recommendations, and meeting the application deadlines are just some of the issues dealt with during the already hectic senior year. Our staff works diligently in assisting students with their goals after they graduate from Plano Senior High School. Please contact your counselor with any questions you have or to set up a time to talk about your specific needs.
College Application Procedures: This handout summarizes the most common steps in this process and is a great place to start.
SchooLinks is an all-in-one student success platform that allows students to explore college and career readiness. At Plano Senior High School, it is also an important part of the college admission process. All students have access through an app linked to their Webdesk. Below are some resources to help you navigate the program.
Getting Started with SchooLinks: Video guide for Juniors as well as Seniors who are using SchooLinks for the first time and want to explore the features
SchoolLinks College Application Process: Step-by-step guide for using SchooLinks to organize your college applications, request transcripts and letters of recommendations
Submitting the Application
Apply Texas
Colleges and universities in Texas (both 2-year and 4-year schools) use Apply Texas as their application for admission. Chances are, you will be applying to a school that uses this platform. You can input your information, write the essays and have it all ready to go!
If you are planning to apply to out-of-state or private colleges and universities, then The Common App may be the best platform for you to use. Just like Apply Texas, The Common App allows you to complete one application and submit it to a variety of schools (over 1000!).
Since lots of Texas schools now use The Common App as well, this may be the best option if you're applying to schools both in and outside of Texas. Check their list of schools first!
A transcript is a record of all the classes the student has taken grades 9-12 (and will include HS credits earned during middle school if applicable.) Here's what to do when you need one:
Personal Copy(for your own use)
Log into SchooLinks and select "School" from the menu on the left
Select "Records Request"
Click "Download unofficial transcript"
Official Copy(to send to a college/university- will be available in early August for seniors)
Log into SchooLinks and select "Colleges" from the menu on the left
Select "College Applications"
Set up your College Application Manager and then click "+Add Application" for every school you're applying to. An official transcript request will automatically be submitted.
Requesting a Counselor / Teacher Recommendation
Counselor Recommendation Letters
Students requiring a Counselor Recommendation will need to complete the Counselor Recommendation Form (linked below) and submit it to their counselor at least 3 weeks before the recommendation letter or counselor report is due. Not all colleges require this, if you are unsure please reach out to your counselor to verify.
If the school requests a letter of recommendation from a teacher, you will need to contact the teacher of your choice directly and request that he or she write one for you and then provide information to help them (such as due dates, potential schools and majors, etc.)
Once the teacher has agreed, you can enter their name in your SchooLinks college application manager and it will send them an official link to upload and submit your letter.
Essay
Some schools will want additional items as part of your application such as a resume, one or more essays or even a portfolio. Take the time to find out exactly what is needed for the schools you plan to apply to. Tips for writing your essays:
Answer thoroughly, even if you’re an auto-admit student. Many schools use the essay answers for scholarships and specialty programs.
Follow directions and answer what is asked.
Be creative!
Give specific examples to support your statements.
Don’t be afraid to discuss mistakes you've made and what you have learned from them.
The purpose of the resume is to highlight personal achievements and provide admissions officers with information about you that is not included on the academic transcript. Include any noteworthy activity, volunteering, employment, achievement or award you received in High School. Try to keep it to 1-2 pages in length.
