College

A Partnership

As we start this process, know that each of us has a specific role. This process is a partnership, and it is crucial that members understand their roles. We all want the best outcomes for students, and we will work together to do that.

Naviance

Scarborough subscribes to Naviance, an Internet database that can be helpful in the college search process. Naviance helps students keep track of their prospective colleges and active applications and provides information for over 5,000 colleges and universities.

• How to Log In
  • https://student.naviance.com/scarborough > student > Log in with CLEVER
     
• Link Common App and Naviance
  • Log in to Naviance > Click on "Colleges" tab > "Colleges I Am Applying To > Match Accounts > Enter the e-mail address that you used to set up your Common App Account

The Common App

The Common Application is a platform that allows students to apply to over 1,000 colleges and universities. The Common App opens on August 1 for that year’s application cycle, and most colleges update their applications sometime between August 1st and mid-August, though some colleges take longer. When registering your account, do not use your school email address.

Link Common App and Naviance:

Students will need to link their Common App and Naviance accounts before Letters of Recommendation and Transcripts are sent to colleges.

• Log in to Naviance > Click on Colleges tab > Colleges I am applying to > Match Accounts > Enter the e-mail address that you used to set up your Common App Account

FERPA WAIVER

Students will submit the FERPA release authorization within the Common App account, not their Naviance account. You must first complete the Education section in the Common App, then complete the FERPA release authorization.

• "My Colleges" tab > Select any school on the left side > Recommenders and FERPA > Complete Release Authorization. Follow the instructions

Once you complete this, it will be applied to all the colleges that you apply to. Students must add teachers through Naviance, but may add outside recommenders and advisors through the Common App. 

Application Guide For First-year Students
 

Apply on Common App

STARS (Self-Reported Transcript and Academic Record System)

The Self-Reported Transcript Academic Record System (STARS) is a system used by some colleges and universities for applicants to submit their high school academic records. With STARS, applicants input their grades, courses, and other academic information directly into an online portal. The admissions office then uses this information for evaluation.

Not all colleges and universities use STARS, make sure to check the specific requirements of each institution. Additionally, some institutions may still require official transcripts even if they use STARS for initial evaluation.

STARS Login

Test Waivers

Please reach out to your school counselor or the Senior Placement Office if the cost of testing is a burden.

Test-Optional & Test-Free Colleges

FairTest.ORG

Upcoming SAT Test Dates

Register for SAT

ACT Test Dates

Register for ACT

Requesting Letters of Recommendation: 

The following template is available to download and should be completed and provided to the teacher from whom you are requesting the recommendation.

Request for Teacher Letter of Recommendation

The NCAA has specific eligibility requirements. Suppose you have aspirations to play NCAA athletics at a DI or DII college. In that case, you must meet their core course requirements by specific deadlines, which can be more complicated if you have repeated a grade or gone to an international high school. 

NCAA Eligibility Center

Athletic Recruiting

Contacting coaches: It is the student's responsibility to contact coaches at schools of interest. Students can draft a letter of introduction to send to college coaches. These letters should include information about the student's academic and personal background, as well as any relevant athletic information. Mr. Harris will happily review these letters with students. Students can obtain the names and addresses of coaches from either the College Office or the school's admissions or athletic offices. The College Office has sample letters to college coaches that can be provided to students.

NCAA Initial Eligibility

Students should be aware of specific practical considerations. For example, student-athletes interested in playing interscholastic sports at any Division I or Division II college or university must meet the NCAA initial eligibility requirements. Student-athletes should visit the NCAA Clearinghouse website for details. To be eligible to play interscholastic sports at Division I or II schools, student-athletes must have earned credits in certain core course areas.

Timeline for NCAA

9th Grade

• Create a free NCAA Eligibility Center profile
• Take NCAA-approved core courses and focus on strong grades

10th Grade

• Track requirements and stay on top of academics
• Request your transcript to be uploaded to the NCAA at the end of the year

11th Grade

• Confirm core course progress with your school counselor
• Share your NCAA ID with coaches and begin communication
• Visit colleges (unofficial/official) and start applications
• Update your certification account if being recruited (D1/D2)
• Send updated transcript

12th Grade

• Apply and be accepted to a college
• Request amateurism certification (spring)
• Graduate with the required core courses
• Request your final transcript with proof of graduation to be sent

Resources

• Gap Year Association 
• Gap Year Association Planning Guide
• From Dreaming to Doing: Your Essential Guide to a Successful Gap Year
• Gap Year Accredited Programs

A gap year is a planned, purposeful break between high school and college. When done well, it is structured, not time off to drift, but time used to grow. A gap year is typically a 1-year experience after high school graduation. It is not dropping out of college plans, but it is postponing enrollment with the intention

Common Gap Year Paths

• Work Experience
  • Paid employment, trades, or industry exposure
  • Builds responsibility and financial awareness
• Service & Volunteer Programs
  • Domestic or international service programs
  • Focus on community impact and cultural learning
• Internships / Career Exploration
  • Hands-on exposure to fields like healthcare, business, education, or tech
• Travel with Purpose
  • Structured programs (not just tourism)
  • Cultural immersion and language learning
• Self-Designed Gap Year
  • Combination of work, study, travel, and projects
  • Requires strong structure and accountability

Why Students Choose a Gap Year

• Students often use a gap year to:
• Gain maturity and independence
• Explore career interests before college
• Build real-world experience
• Reduce academic burnout
• Strengthen college applications (in some cases)

Benefits of a Gap Year

• Greater clarity about academic and career direction
• Improved independence and life skills
• Stronger motivation for college success
• Real-world experience that can inform major selection

Important Considerations

• Requires planning, supervision, and clear goals
• Some colleges may allow deferral of admission (must be approved)
• Financial planning is essential (costs vary widely)

College Admission & Gap Years

• Many colleges allow admitted students to defer enrollment for 1 year. Policies vary, check in with your school about theirs.
• Colleges often expect structured, meaningful plans for the year

Family Roles

• Help ensure the gap year is intentional and structured
• Support planning, budgeting, and safety considerations
• Maintain expectations for accountability and follow-through
• Encourage reflection on goals and outcomes

Questions to Ask Before Deciding

• What is the purpose of this gap year?
• How will time be structured and measured?
• What skills or experiences will be gained?
• How will this support long-term academic or career goals?

Resources for International College Planning

• NACAC Guide to International University Admission: Offers country-by-country overviews, application processes, and financial aid insights for studying abroad.

Canada

Studying in Canada offers U.S. students a strong balance of academic quality and cultural familiarity. Canadian universities are consistently ranked among the best globally, with flexible programs and a structure that more closely resembles the U.S. model. Students benefit from a multicultural environment and the ability to work during and after their studies.

• Universities Canada
  • Full directory of Canadian universities and general guidance on studying in Canada.
• EduCanada
  • Covers programs, costs, visas, and work opportunities.
• Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC)
  • Centralized application system for students applying to universities in Ontario.

Ireland

Ireland has become an increasingly popular destination for U.S. students seeking a high-quality, English-speaking education with a more direct academic path. Degree programs are typically specialized from the start, allowing students to dive deeply into their chosen field. Universities emphasize critical thinking, discussion-based learning, and strong faculty interaction. Ireland also offers post-graduation work opportunities, making it attractive to students seeking international experience after earning their degree.

• Education in Ireland
  • Resource with explanations of programs, entry requirements, and post-study work options.
• HEA (Higher Education Authority)
  • Useful for understanding the structure of the Irish higher education system and institutional differences.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is known for its globally recognized universities and streamlined degree structure. Most undergraduate programs are completed in three years, reducing overall tuition and time to degree. Students apply directly to a specific course of study, creating a focused academic experience. Strong support systems for international students, including housing and access to healthcare, help ease the transition abroad. For motivated students who know their academic direction, the UK offers a direct and efficient route to a respected degree.

• UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
  • Centralized application system for nearly all UK undergraduate programs.
• Study UK (British Council)
  • Official guidance on studying in the UK, including visas, scholarships, and search tools.
• The Complete University Guide
  • A widely used comparison tool for programs, rankings, and entry requirements.