If you applied to one or more UC campuses and are waiting on word from the admissions office, there is more you can do while you wait.  First of all, did you send out all of your scores?  Scores should be sent ASAP, and they should also be self-reported through the My UC Application portal.  Remember that for the UC system, scores need only be sent to a single campus.  (For the CSU system, you can sent your SAT scores to all campuses by using the CSU Mentor code- 3594).  

Beyond test scores, you can also update your academic record if a you change schools, add or drop a course, or fail to earn a C or better in a course after submitting the application. Your communication should include the reason for the update and your name, ID number and signature.  Information can be sent to the UC Application center. 

Finally, this is the time to work on your financial aid applications.  For UC specific information regarding financial aid, click here. 

Even though the applications are completed for the UC campuses, support from a private college counselor can help to ensure that all items are complete.  For those in South Pasadena, the San Gabriel Valley, the Greater Los Angeles area or beyond, contact The Right Fit College for any help you may need in the college admissions process.  

As of January 1st, students and families should be working towards the completion of their FAFSA, Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  Federal student aid comes in three major forms: work-study, loans and grants.  Students should work with the financial aid office of a particular campus to identify what sorts of aid may be available.  

To apply, students must complete their FAFSA. While the deadline is June 30th, you should complete the FAFSA as soon as possible as individual schools will have deadlines that vary.  Check with the schools you are applying to for individual deadlines and use estimates to begin the process until your taxes are complete.  

Once you apply, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR).  Review your SAR and make any necessary corrections, as schools will receive your SAR electronically and make aid determinations based on this information.  It always helps to double check with the financial aid office of each school to verify that this process is complete so that you don't miss out on any opportunities for aid.  Once complete, you can compare your aid awards from each campus, which can help in making a financial determination during the selection process.  The Right Fit College can assist you with any of the aforementioned steps and this is yet another reason working with a college counselor can help during the college application process.