College Exploration & Applications

Are you thinking about college? Start here to learn how to prepare for and pay for your education beyond high school and use the navigation on the right for detailed information.

STEP 1:  Review Your Guide to Graduation, Career, and College

The DCPS Student Guide to Graduation, Career, and College is an individualized document that provides students and families step-by-step guidance on graduation, college, and career pathways. Featuring a variety of sections tailored to address key aspects of academic, personal, and professional development, The Guide is your go-to companion for success in high school, career, and college planning.

12th Graders receive The Guide in the Fall, while 9th – 11th graders receive The Guide in the Spring.

STEP 2:  Research Colleges

  • Create a list of colleges and discuss the list with your school counselor.
  • Start visiting college campuses and check out the Events page for upcoming college events and fairs in the DC metro area. Also, some colleges offer visit and fly-in programs and provide travel stipends for prospective students to attend.
  • Apply for summer enrichment programs to explore your academic and career interests, develop new skills, experience college life and meet other students.

STEP 3:  Take Challenging Classes

Colleges care about which courses you take in high school.  DCPS students are eligible to sign up for Dual enrollment and early college programs at participating colleges in the area. Check out the Dual Enrollment page for information on how to sign-up.

STEP 4: Prepare for the College Entrance Exams

Most colleges require students to submit ACT or SAT scores, while some selective schools may also require additional SAT subject tests. Check out the DCPS SAT page for upcoming SAT exams and preparation for DCPS students.

STEP 5:  Research Cost of Colleges

College is an investment but don’t assume it is out of reach. The cost of college varies but there is financial aid available. Check out the Resources/Toolkit page for information on the various types of financial aid available.

  • Scholarships can help pay for part or all your college education. Check out the Scholarship page for a list of scholarships and sign-up for the DCPS Dollars4College Newsletter to receive a monthly list of local and national scholarships available to DC students.

STEP 6:  Apply to College

You’ll apply to college in the Fall of your senior year and starting early gives you an edge! Many schools offer Early Action or Early Decision, which can boost your chances of being accepted and in securing financial aid sooner.

  • When you’re ready to apply, you’ll typically use one of these four methods Common App (used by most colleges), Coalition Application, Common Black College App (used for some HBCUs), or direct applications through the college (ex: Georgetown).
  • Each application requires you to enter personal information, academic history, extracurricular activities, and essays (if applicable). You may also need to request letters of recommendation and submit test scores, depending on the school’s requirements. Be sure to check deadlines and track submissions to stay on top of the process!

STEP 7:  Compare Your Costs

Once accepted into college, you will receive a financial aid award letter. Use the DCPS Award letter calculator to compare your award letters and analyze the cost of college. This is so important to do to ensure you and your family aren’t taking on a lot of unnecessary debt.

STEP 8:  Choose Your College

Finding the right college is about what fits you best. Be sure to consider academics, cost, campus life, and career opportunities. Visit campuses, talk to students, and trust your instincts. Check out our Post-Application Steps page for tips to make the best decision!