Private College FAQs

Am I eligible to apply?	Each private college has different admissions requirements. Check each college’s website to see if you’ve met their requirements.
When can I start filling out my application?	Application filing periods vary by each college/university. Check each college’s website for application information.
What is the deadline to submit my application?	Application filing periods vary by each college/university. Check each college’s website for application information.
Where can I find the application?	Check each college’s website. Some colleges have their own application and some may use Commonapp or Coalition.
How much does it cost to apply?	This varies, but probably around $100 for each private college/university
Do I need to fill out an application for every campus?	It depends on the college. If the college uses Commonapp then you will need to fill out only one application. You may have to fill out supplemental information as well depending on the college/university.
Do I need to list all of my classes and grades on my application?	List all of your classes unless they are not A-G classes, such as PE, Health, ELD, Yearbook, Sports or TA. A-G courses on your transcript will have a P listed next to it.
Do I need to write an essay?	Yes, essay requirements vary by college/university, but you will be required to write at least one essay.
Do I need a letter of recommendation?	Yes, private colleges usually require a letter from 2 teachers and a letter from your counselor. Pick teachers who know you well, not just the ones with whom you earned an A. Make sure you give your teachers/counselors at least 3 weeks advance notice before the application deadline.
What is a Brag Sheet? Do I really need to fill it out?	A Brag Sheet is a list of questions you will answer so your counselor can learn details about you that s/he otherwise might not know. Your teacher may not require a Brag Sheet, but your counselor does.
Where can I get a Brag Sheet?	On the RHS website by clicking here. Or email your counselor for one.
If I made-up a D or an F, do I have to list the D or F on my application?	Yes, list all Ds and Fs in all of your A-G classes even if you repeated the class and earned a higher grade
Which GPA do I list on my application?	List the GPA on your transcript titled: Total GPA. Be sure to list the Weighted Total GPA.
Do I need to take the ACT/SAT?	This varies by each college/university. Check the college website for specific recommendations.
If I took the ACT/SAT, do I list it on my application?	Yes, IF it is required by colleges/universities. Due to COVID, many colleges are currently test optional or test-blind for the Class of 2022 (meaning they do not require the ACT/SAT.
Do I need to send my ACT/SAT scores?	No, self-report your scores on your application. Official score reports are not necessary until you enroll in college.
Do I need to list my AP/IB scores?	Yes, list all exams you took and the score you earned.
Do I need to send my AP/IB scores?	No, self-report your scores on your application. Official score reports are not necessary until you enroll in college.
Do I need to send my transcript?	If you applied to college through Commonapp or Coalition then your counselor will upload your transcript with your letter of recommendation.
What if I need help with my application?	Counselors will be holding weekly college application help sessions at lunch time during the months of October and November. Students can drop in anytime during these sessions to get help with their application.