life skills

Admissions Counselor

A college or university employee responsible for choosing which student applicants are admitted to their school

Class Rank

A numerical position one holds within their class in relation to their grade point average.

Co-Signer

A person who is equally responsible for paying back debt under the credit terms

Budget

A plan for making and spending money

Academic Probation

A status resulting from unsatisfactory academic work; a warning that the student must improve academic performance or be dismissed from a team or from the school.

Athletic Associations

National and regional athletic associations govern the intercollegiate (or varsity) teams of colleges and universities.

Cal State Apply

Refers to the online application you must complete to apply for admission to a California State University (CSU). This application is used for all 23 CSU campuses and is available online each year on October 1. To learn more, visit Application Types Overview and click on the California State University (CSU) tab.

Data Release Number (DRN)

The four-digit number assigned to your FAFSA that allows you to release your FAFSA data to schools you did not list on your original FAFSA.

Admission Tests

These are standardized tests that assess the test-taker's academic knowledge and skills. Most colleges use scores from admission tests to help them decide which students to accept.

Academic Year

Usually this refers to the September-June school year. In some cases it refers to the entire year.

Application

diligent attention; diligence; V. apply oneself

Advanced Placement (AP) Course

An advanced high school course that covers college-level material. Colleges may award AP credit for the course depending on the score a student receives on the corresponding AP exam.

Intercollegiate Teams (also called Varsity Teams)

At the highest level, intercollegiate, or varsity, teams represent the college in competition against other colleges, typically in conferences under the authority of an athletic association. Most colleges field competitive teams in many sports, such as basketball, baseball, or volleyball. These teams typically practice frequently and travel to other colleges for games or tournaments. Earning a spot on these teams can be difficult depending on the school's athletic division and level of competitiveness in a particular sport. To see which competitive sports are offered at a college that interests you, find the college using the College Search Tool, and then click on the Varsity Sports tab. Also see Athletic Associations and Intramural and Club Sports.

FSA ID

Formerly known as a PIN, FSA ID stands for Federal Student Aid Identification. An FSA ID is made up of a username and password that you choose. It confirms your identity when accessing financial aid information online and electronically signing federal student aid documents, like the FAFSA. Students and parents must have their own FSA IDs. It is important you keep your FSA ID information safe. Visit Federal Student Aid for more information. Also see FAFSA.

Adjusted Gross Income

Gross income less adjustments

Deposit

In banking, refers to placing funds into your checking or savings account. In college admissions, refers to the sum of money most colleges require you to submit upon accepting the offer of admission. Deposits are at the discretion of each college and will be outlined in the college admission letter or in materials that will be sent soon after your admission letter. The deposit secures your place in the incoming class and can range from $150 to $500 or more. The deposit is usually deducted from the total balance you owe for the academic year and is generally non-refundable. No college should request a deposit before May 1. If you cannot afford to pay the deposit, you should call your college's admissions office to learn about your options. In some cases, colleges may waive the deposit for students who qualify. If you need more time to make a decision, contact the admissions office to request an extension. If you do not pay the deposit and do not contact the admissions office, your offer of admission can be reversed.

Intramural and Club Sports (also called Recreational Sports)

Intramural and club sports allow students to participate at a less rigorous level than the intercollegiate (varsity) teams and/or to play a sport for which the college does not field an intercollegiate team. In intramural sports, several teams from the college play each other in college-sponsored competitions. In club sports, the clubs are sanctioned by the college, but they make or find their own opportunities for competition. They are both good options for students who desire to play a sport recreationally, with a less intense practice and travel schedule. Also see Intercollegiate Teams.

Advanced Classes

Refers to Advanced Placement (AP), Honors, and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses available to students at many high schools.

California Dream Act

Refers to California state laws that allow students enrolled in eligible California colleges or technical, vocational, or trade schools to apply for state financial aid, private scholarships funded through public universities, university grants, and community college fee waivers. To qualify, students must meet AB 540/AB 2000/SB 68 eligibility requirements and complete a California Dream Act Application (CADAA). See CA Dream Act for more information. Also see AB 540 (Assembly Bill 540), California Dream Act Application (CADAA), and Undocumented Student.

Job Shadow

Refers to a career exploration opportunity. Job shadowing allows you to visit a workplace to observe the day-to-day operations.

Industry

Refers to a category of companies or organizations with very similar business activities, products, or services. Careers are considered part of an industry based on place of employment and/or the type of work performed. For example, nurses, physical therapists, and mental health counselors are all careers in the health care and social assistance industry. Use the Industry filter in the College Search Tool to find careers in industries that interest you. Also see Career Cluster and Career Pathway.

Course

Refers to a college class. Some colleges use the term "course" and others use the term "class," but they mean the same thing. Each course/class is worth a certain amount of credits. Also see College Credit.

Accreditation

Refers to a designation all credible institutions of higher education are required to have.

Brag Sheet

Refers to a document that lists your achievements, much like a resume does. Brag sheets normally highlight your awards, honors, leadership activities, volunteer activities, etc. Also see Resume.

Master Promissory Note (also called MPN)

Refers to a legal document in which you promise to repay your federal student loans and any accrued interest and fees to your lender or loan holder. There are different MPNs for Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans and Direct PLUS loans. Most schools are authorized to make multiple federal student loans under one MPN for up to 10 years. All eligible undergraduate students, as well as eligible graduate/professional students requesting unsubsidized loans, should complete the MPN. The entire MPN process must be completed in a single session and usually takes less than 30 minutes. Also see Loan.

Financial Aid Offer (also called Award Letter or Financial Aid Package)

Refers to a letter you'll get from colleges that accept you. Your financial aid offer breaks down the costs to attend that college. It also lists the types and amounts of financial aid you can get if you go to that college. Learn how to compare your financial aid offers to figure out which college will be most affordable. Follow the directions in your offer carefully to accept or decline your offer on time. Decision day for most colleges is May 1. If you have questions about your offer, reach out to your college's financial aid office. Also see Net Price.

Impacted Major

Refers to a major for which more students apply than the school can accommodate. These majors tend to have higher standards of admission. It is important to consider if the major you are interested in is impacted before making a decision about where to apply and where to enroll. Also see Major.

Application Fee

Refers to a non-refundable fee most colleges require as part of the application process.

NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association)

Refers to a nonprofit association that regulates college athletes competing at institutions and conferences. Division 1 and 2 institutions are designated by NCAA, and such institutions can offer scholarships to student athletes. However, if you plan to compete in Division 1 and 2 institutions, you need to register with NCAA Clearinghouse during your 11th grade year of high school. For more information, visit NCAA. Also see Athletic Associations and Intercollegiate Teams.

College Credit

Refers to a number assigned to each college class. Each class is worth a specific amount of credits/units, and you need a specific amount of credits/units to graduate from college. Some colleges grant college credit for Advanced Placement (AP) tests. Also see Advanced Placement (AP) Test.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Refers to a number assigned to the grades you receive in your classes. Each grade (A, A-, B+, B, etc.) is assigned a specific number of points, and then all your grades are averaged to calculate your GPA. For example, if an A is worth 4.0 points, and you earn all A's, then your GPA is 4.0. There are two types of GPAs: 1) unweighted, which equals the average point value you have earned in all completed courses, and 2) weighted, which takes into account the extra points you will usually receive when you take Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Honors courses. Also see Advanced Placement (AP) Course, Honors Course, and International Baccalaureate (IB) Program.

College Catalog (also called a Course Catalog)

Refers to a paper or online book that is published by colleges each year that includes course descriptions, prerequisites, and schedules, as well as academic calendars and deadlines. College catalogs also include a college's mission, history, policies, procedures, tuition and fee information, and descriptions of resources available on campus. Though not everything in your college catalog will apply to you, it's important to review it each year, not only to select classes, but also to ensure you are aware of any relevant policy updates.

Graduate Degree

Refers to a postgraduate/professional/graduate degree (i.e. master's degree, Ph.D., M.D., J.D.) earned after you earn a bachelor's degree. Also see Bachelor's Degree.

Career Pathway

Refers to a prescribed set of courses designed to lead to a career in a defined industry sector. Career pathways typically attract people with similar interests, skill sets, and career aspirations. Also see Career Cluster and Industry.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program

Refers to a program of study offered at select high schools that offers advanced coursework. If you complete an IB curriculum, you receive both a high school diploma and an IB Diploma. Known to be a truly international program of excellence, being an IB student means you learn how to ask challenging questions, develop a strong sense of your own identity and culture, and gain the ability to communicate and understand people from other countries and cultures. You will also earn extra GPA points for any IB course you complete. Also see Grade Point Average (GPA).

Dual Enrollment

Refers to a program that allows you to enroll in college courses while still enrolled in high school. You usually need to complete a college application and may receive college credit.

Degree

Refers to a qualification conferred by a college or university after you have successfully completed specified courses and requirements. Different degree options are available to you depending on the type of college you attend. Also see Associate Degree, Certificate Programs, Bachelor's Degree, and Graduate Degree.

California Aid Report (CAR)

Refers to a report you receive from the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) regarding your Cal Grant eligibility after you file your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) and your Cal Grant GPA Verification form. Also see Cal Grant.

Dependent Student

Refers to a student who is assumed to have the support of parents and does not meet any of the criteria for an independent student for the purposes of financial aid. If you are a dependent student, you will need to report both your AND your parent(s)' information on the FAFSA or CADAA. Visit Federal Student Aid for more information about dependency status. Also see Independent Student, FAFSA, and California Dream Act Application (CADAA).

Early Admission Programs (also called Early Decision, Early Action, and Restrictive Early Action)

Refers to a type of admission program that many colleges offer allowing you to apply before the regular deadline and get results earlier than you would with regular decision. It is important to understand early admission programs thoroughly before applying via this method. Also see Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), Regular Decision, and Restrictive Early Action.

Honors Course

Refers to a type of advanced high school course that is more difficult than a traditional high school course. Colleges like when you take Honors courses because it demonstrates your ability to challenge yourself. You will also earn extra GPA points when you complete an Honors course. If your high school does not offer, or offers limited Honors courses, or if you are homeschooled, consider enrolling in Honors courses online. Talk with your counselor about online opportunities. Also see Grade Point Average (GPA).

For-Profit College

Refers to a type of college that is owned by a private company that makes a profit from your tuition and fees. Private, not-for-profit (independent) colleges, as well as public colleges and universities like the California State University (CSU), University of California (UC), and California Community Colleges (CCC), do not make money from your tuition and fees. Many for-profit colleges employ controversial practices and should be very carefully researched.

Early Action (EA)

Refers to a type of early admission program offered by many colleges. Early action (EA) is for students who are almost 100% sure they want to attend one or two specific colleges. If you apply EA and are accepted, you do not have to attend the college (like you do with Early Decision), but your spot is held for you until you hear from other colleges. You can usually apply EA to as many schools as you want. If you apply EA, you can also apply to as many colleges as you want via regular decision. Also see Early Admission Programs, Early Decision (ED), Regular Decision, and Restrictive Early Action.

Early Decision (ED)

Refers to a type of early admission program offered by many colleges. Early decision (ED) is for students who are 100% sure they want to attend a specific college. If you apply ED, you are required to attend the college if you are granted admission; therefore, you are making a binding commitment. Some colleges offer two types of ED: ED 1 with an application deadline in November and results in mid-December, or ED 2 with a deadline in December or January and results by February. Unlike Early Action (EA), you can only apply to one college ED. If you are not admitted ED, you can apply to any colleges via the regular decision deadline, or later ED or early action deadlines. Also see Early Action (EA), Early Admission Programs, Regular Decision, and Restrictive Early Action.

Grant (also called Gift Aid)

Refers to a type of financial aid that is a gift. Grants are usually awarded by public sources, like the federal or state government. You do not have to pay back any of the grant money you receive.

Extracurricular Activities

Refers to activities you participate in outside of the classroom. Extracurricular activities include after-school activities like sports, clubs, student government, community service, religious groups, social organizations, etc. Schools value participation in extracurricular activities—it is important to demonstrate meaningful, long-term commitment to your extracurricular activities.

Common Application Supplements

Refers to additional requirements by colleges that use the Common Application. Most colleges that accept the Common Application require you to complete a supplement in addition to the main application. The supplement may be a simple form or additional essays you must complete. Also see Common Application.

Minor (also called College Minor)

Refers to an academic field of study, similar to a major, but with fewer required courses. Minors are not required, but you might choose a minor to increase your knowledge in a field other than your major, which can enhance marketability in the workforce. Often times you will want to minor in a separate, but related field to your major. For example, a marketing major who minors in psychology or communications gains more depth and understanding of marketing from the minor. Also see Major.

Articulation Agreement

Refers to an agreement between colleges that specifies how courses taken at the community college contribute to a degree from a four-year college when you transfer

Fee Waiver

Refers to an application you can submit to colleges, College Board (PSAT, SAT, AP), and ACT if you cannot reasonably pay application and/or registration fees because of your family's financial situation. There are specific conditions you must meet to be eligible for a fee waiver, and there is a limit to the number of fee waivers you can receive. For California Community College enrollment fee waivers, see California College Promise Grant. For information about other fee waivers, talk with your counselor.

Higher Education

Refers to degree-granting programs for high school graduates or people with General Education Development (GED) certificates.

Merit-Based Financial Aid

Refers to financial aid based on merit, not need. Determination of merit may be based on academics, leadership, or involvement in activities. Also see Need-Based Financial Aid.

Loan

Refers to financial aid you will have to pay back after you finish school. There are many types of loans, and they may be administered by the government or private institutions. All loans accrue interest, which you are responsible for paying. However, federal loans usually have lower interest rates, more benefits, and more flexible repayment terms than private loans. See Student Loans for more information.

Financial Aid

Refers to grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study assistance to help you pay for college. The federal government, state government, colleges, and private organizations distribute financial aid. You may be awarded financial aid based on financial need or merit. Visit Learn About Financial Aid for more information. Also see Need-Based Financial Aid and Merit-Based Financial Aid.

Fees

Refers to mandatory college costs that help cover college activities and benefits afforded to you as a student. Fees are in addition to tuition and room and board. Also see College Costs.

Cal Grant

Refers to money for California colleges that you do not have to pay back. Eligibility is based on FAFSA or CADAA responses, verified GPA, the type of California colleges listed on your financial aid application, and whether you're a recent high school graduate. Award amounts vary by the three kinds of Cal Grants — A, B and C. Learn more about the Cal Grant. Also see FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA).

Common Application

Refers to one of the most widely used college applications accepted at more than 800 colleges worldwide. If you are applying to an independent college, there is a good chance you will use it. Using the Common Application allows you to submit one online application to multiple schools. To learn more and create an account, visit the Common Application. Also see Common Application Supplements.

CSU (California State University, also called Cal State)

Refers to one of the three public systems of higher education in California, along with California Community Colleges (CCC) and University of California (UC). With 23 campuses, there may be one local to you. The CSU system is the state's greatest producer of bachelor's degrees and drives California's economy in many industries. In addition to bachelor's degrees, CSUs offer master's and doctorate degrees, and many campuses offer on- and off-campus housing. To learn more, visit College Options in California and click the California State Universities tab.

CCC (California Community Colleges)

Refers to one of the three public systems of higher education in California, along with California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC). CCCs offer a wide range of educational programs suitable for students with a variety of career goals and life situations, including associate degrees and certificate programs. To learn more, visit College Options in California and click the California Community Colleges tab.

ACT

Refers to one of the two major college entrance exams; the other is the SAT.

Independent Colleges

Refers to private, not-for-profit colleges that are not run by the state. Independent colleges have the same tuition rate for all students, regardless of where they are from. If you attend an independent college, you are eligible to apply for federal financial aid. In California, more than 80 independent colleges are members of the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU). To learn more, visit College Options in California and click the California Independent Colleges and Universities tab. Also see Public Colleges.

CCCApply

Refers to programs offered at community colleges for students to pursue technical careers that do not require an associate or bachelor's degree. Some examples are medical assistant, electrician, or preschool teacher. Community colleges may offer different types of certificates, such as career certificates, certificates of achievement, certificates of proficiency, etc. Students enrolled in eligible certificate programs can apply for federal financial aid. Contact your community college to find out if the certificate program you are interested in is eligible for federal financial aid.

Community College (also called a Jr. College or Technical College)

Refers to public colleges, sometimes known as two-year colleges. Courses and credits earned at a community college can generally transfer to four-year colleges and universities. You can earn associate degrees at community colleges. These colleges also offer work-related and technical certificate programs to prepare you for the workforce. Also see CCC (California Community Colleges).

College Entrance Exams (also called Admission Tests)

Refers to standardized tests known as the ACT and SAT that many colleges require you to take in order to be considered for admission. Also see ACT and SAT.

Assembly Bill 540

Refers to state legislation that allows eligible non-resident students to qualify for in-state tuition at public California colleges and universities

Campus Activities (also called Student Activities)

Refers to student-focused or extracurricular clubs and programs offered at colleges or universities. These activities may be academic, career-focused, or social. They allow students to pursue their interests, network, and become involved in campus life. To learn more about the campus activities of a college you are interested in, use the College Search Tool to locate the college and click on the Campus Community tab. When using the College Search Tool, you can also filter your results by specific campus activities.

Major (also called College Major)

Refers to the academic field (i.e. biology, history, engineering, education, etc.) you study and specialize in while in college. Each major requires you to take a specific number of courses that help you develop a growing expertise in that academic field. Most colleges require students to declare a major by the end of sophomore year. Most colleges also offer the option to double major, which means majoring in two academic fields. Double-majoring can sometimes involve taking additional coursework beyond the minimum graduation requirements, which can have financial implications if it takes you longer to complete your degree. Also see Minor.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC)

Refers to the amount of money your family can reasonably contribute to your college education, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Officially, FAFSA states the EFC is "a measure of your family's financial strength and is calculated according to a formula established by law. Your family's taxed and untaxed income, assets, and benefits (such as unemployment or Social Security) are all considered in the formula. Also considered are your family size and the number of family members who will attend college during the year." In reality, your EFC may not reflect how much your family can reasonably afford. If your family has experienced substantial changes to their financial situation, you may wish to inquire with financial aid offices about the possibility of opening a "Professional Judgment" or "Special Circumstances" case. You can use the Financial Aid Eligibility Tool to calculate your EFC. Also see FAFSA and California Dream Act Application (CADAA).

Letters of Recommendation (also called College Recommendations)

Refers to the counselor and teacher recommendations that most colleges require you to submit as part of your application. Colleges prefer you submit recommendations from teachers who taught you in academic courses in the 11th and/or 12th grades who can highlight your academic and personal strengths. Your 10th grade teachers are acceptable, but avoid asking a teacher who only taught you in the 9th grade. Some colleges also allow you to submit extra recommendations from mentors or coaches. It is important to request recommendations at least a month or more before the application due date and provide your recommenders with all the materials they need to complete your recommendations. Consider giving recommenders your resume or brag sheet and a copy of your final college essay.

Bachelor's Degree

Refers to the degree you receive from a four-year college after satisfactory completion of a program of study. Bachelor's degrees are intended to take four years for full-time students to complete.

Financial Need

Refers to the difference between what your family is expected to pay and the total cost of attendance for one year of college. Financial need equals Cost of Attendance (COA) minus Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Also see College Costs and Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

California Dream Act Applications (CADAA)

Refers to the free application that allows undocumented and nonresident documented students to apply for state and campus-based financial aid, provided they meet certain requirements. See CA Dream Act to learn about eligibility requirements and how to launch your application from your CaliforniaColleges.edu account. Also see AB 540 (Assembly Bill 540), California Dream Act, and Undocumented Student. See CA Dream Act for information, including how to launch your application from your CaliforniaColleges.edu account.

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

Refers to the free application you must complete to apply for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study, and loans. In California, the FAFSA is also used to determine eligibility for state financial aid, such as Cal Grants. The information you provide is used to evaluate your family's financial strength and determine how much your family can reasonably pay for you to attend college (Expected Family Contribution). You can submit the FAFSA online beginning October 1 the year before you plan to attend college. To be considered for state financial aid, it is STRONGLY recommended that you submit your FAFSA by the March 2 Cal Grant deadline. You must submit the FAFSA every year you attend college. See FAFSA for more information, including how to launch your application from your CaliforniaColleges.edu account. Also see Expected Family Contribution.

College Readiness

Refers to the knowledge, skills, and attitude you will need in order to pursue and prepare for a college education.

Course Load

Refers to the number of courses you take in a specific semester or quarter.

College Rankings

Refers to the often-controversial practice of ranking colleges based on various criteria, including, but not limited to, rank and grades of incoming students, college persistence and graduation rates, and alumni giving rates. It is important to note that college rankings are not always based on objective factors, nor are they usually based on the quality of teaching or the overall experience of students. Even so, many college-bound students use one or more rankings lists as one of several criteria in the development of an initial list of colleges or to help evaluate the colleges that accept them for admission. Some of the more popular rankings include U.S. News and World Report, Princeton Review, Kiplinger's, and Niche.

Intent to Register (also called Intent to Enroll, Statement of Intent to Register, or SIR)

Refers to the online or paper form all colleges require you to submit to formally accept or decline the offer of admission. You are strongly encouraged to wait until you hear from every college you applied to before you declare your intent to register. If you do not pay the deposit and do not contact the admission office, your offer of admission can be reversed. For colleges that you intend to decline, you are strongly encouraged to follow the instructions to do so. If you are not attending, the college may be able to offer your spot to a student on the waitlist. To accept or decline your offer of admission, colleges may require you to set up your online student portal.

Defer (also called Deferred Admission)

Refers to the option that some colleges offer allowing you to postpone enrollment at a college you have been admitted to for one year. If you are interested in deferring, you should contact the college admissions office after you have earned admission.

Graduation Rate

Refers to the percentage of freshmen who successfully earn an undergraduate degree from the college or university where they originally enrolled. Graduation rate is often indicated as a percentage within a specific time frame, such as 60% within six years.

College Essay (also called the Personal Statement or, for University of California, Personal Insight Questions)

Refers to the personal reflective essay most colleges require you to write as part of the college application. The college essay challenges you to think critically about your strengths and potential contributions to a college campus and society. It is your chance to share exactly who you are and show depth beyond just your grades and college entrance exam scores. It is critical that you take the time to plan your college essays in advance and write multiple drafts before submitting. You should also ask one or two trusted teachers, mentors, or family members to review your essays and give you feedback. Different colleges have different college essay requirements, so it is important to read application instructions carefully. The University of California (UC) requires shorter responses to several Personal Insight Questions instead of one long essay, but the goals are the same. For writing tips, see College Admissions Essays. Also see UC Personal Insight Questions.

Deferment or Forbearance (also called Loan Deferment)

Refers to the postponement of your federal student loan repayments for a specified period of time. The main difference between deferment and forbearance is that with a deferment, you may not be responsible for paying the interest that accrues on certain types of federal loans during the deferment period. However, during forbearance, you are responsible for paying the interest that accrues on all types of federal student loans. A number of situations can qualify you for a deferment or forbearance, including if you enroll in graduate school, experience economic hardship, or participate in an approved graduate fellowship program, among others. Visit Federal Student Aid to learn more about eligibility and how to request a deferment or forbearance. Also see Loan.

Class Schedule

Refers to the specific classes you are currently taking or plan to take in the upcoming semester or quarter.

Advanced Placement (AP) Tes

Refers to the subject-specific standardized tests administered by the College Board every May for those enrolled in AP classes in their high school or online.

Cost of Attendance (also called College Costs)

Refers to the total cost of attending college and often abbreviated as COA. See College Costs for a detailed definition.

College Costs (also called Cost of Attendance)

Refers to the total costs to attend college, including fees you pay directly to your college and all other related costs. It's often called Cost of Attendance (COA). Fees paid directly to your college typically include tuition and room/board. In addition, college costs include all other expenses like paying for books, travel, health insurance, personal expenses, etc. Most students don't have to pay the full COA because of financial aid. To figure out if you can afford a college, it's best to look at Net Price, not COA. Also see Net Price, Tuition and Room and Board.

Family Income (also called Household Income)

Refers to the total earnings received by all family members, age 15 or older, living in the same household. Earnings can include wages, social security, child support, and investment income (e.g. pensions, capital gains, dividends).

Associate Degree or Associate Degree for Transfer

Refers to the types of degrees you can receive from a California Community College (CCC).

Disbursement

Refers to the way your financial aid money is given to your college. Federal financial aid is disbursed directly to your college (you do not ever see that money) at specific times each year, after which your student account is credited. However, if you receive a scholarship or grant from a non-federal source, the organization may give you a check to give to your college.

Acceptance

Refers to when you receive official news from colleges that you have been accepted for admission to attend.

Campus Visit

Refers to when you visit college campuses while you are still in high school. Going on campus visits to colleges near you or far away offers you the opportunity to see what college is really like. You can often go to classes, eat in the cafeteria, meet students, and participate in an interview. All colleges offer free campus tours, and many can host you overnight if you want. If you are part of a college access program, talk with your mentor/contact about existing campus visit opportunities, or talk with your school counselor. Call the admissions offices of colleges you want to visit to learn about specific programs for prospective students. You can start your campus visits as early as the 9th grade.

Independent Student

Refers to you if you meet one of the following criteria: are at least 24 years old, are married, are a graduate or professional student, are a Veteran, are a member of the armed forces, are an orphan or ward of the court, are someone with legal dependents other than a spouse, are an emancipated minor, or are someone who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. For the purposes of financial aid, you will NOT need to report your parent(s)' information on the FAFSA or CADAA. Also see Dependent Student, FAFSA, and California Dream Act Application (CADAA).

College Interview

Refers to your opportunity to interview with a college. Many colleges offer college interviews, but very few require you to interview. Typically, college counselors or college alumni conduct college interviews. If you are interested in a college interview, contact your colleges to schedule. If you do decide to interview, it is important to prepare ahead of time so you can present your best self. Here are some tips: 1. Take some time to reflect on your strengths, leadership accomplishments, and other contributions to your school and community. 2. Thoroughly research the colleges for which you have interviews so you can communicate why you are a match for those schools. 3. Make sure to have a few unique and meaningful questions to ask the person who interviews you.

College Choice Criteria

Refers to your personal set of values that you determine are important for evaluating, ranking, and deciding the best colleges for you to apply to. Your college choice criteria can also help you reduce your college list to a reasonable number. You can use a variety of criteria, including degrees offered, majors/minors, location/distance from home, size of the student population, whether it is public vs. private, costs (tuition, room and board, etc.), financial aid packages, internship programs, career resources, and ranking. The College Search Tool includes many filters that can help you narrow your results to meet your personal criteria. See Building Your College List for more information.

CSS PROFILE

Short for the College Scholarship Service Profile, is an application distributed by the College Board in the United States allowing college students to apply for financial aid. It is primarily designed to give private member institutions of the College Board a closer look into the finances of a student and family. It is much more detailed than the FAFSA.

Academic Advisor

a person who helps students make decisions about their academic programs

Appeal

apply to a higher court for a reversal of the decision of a lower court.

Campus

grounds of a college, university, or school

College

post-secondary institution offering a collection of degrees in one specific area; also an undergraduate division or school in a university.

Career Cluster

provide students with a context for studying traditional academics and learning the skills specific to a career, and provide U.S. schools with a structure for organizing or restructuring curriculum offerings and focusing class make-up by a common theme such as interest.

Bright Outlook

refers to specific occupations (or careers) identified by the Occupational Information Network (O*Net), a program of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). These careers are designated as being in rapidly growing fields and/or will have a large number of job openings over the next several years. Use the Bright Outlook Occupation filter in the Career Search Tool to search for Bright Outlook careers.