PLANO SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR TO ... - K12 - Plano ISD

PLANO SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 

JUNIOR TO SENIOR GUIDE 

CLASS OF 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

HIGH SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES 

Graduation Plans ………………………………………………….............2 

Senior Scheduling Options /Schedule Change Procedures…………..…3 

POST HIGH SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES 

COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES 

College Readiness Standards………………………………………….....4 

College Application Procedure ………………………………………….5 

College Admission & Financial Aid Plans ………………………………6 

Community Colleges ………………………………………………..........7 

Selected Texas Public Colleges and Universities …………………....8‐9 

Selected Private & Out‐Of‐State Colleges …………………………..10‐11 

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS TESTING 

College Admissions Testing: ACT……………………………………….12 

College Admissions Testing: SAT ………………………………………13 

Which Test is Right for You? ……………………………………………14 

Other Testing Information………………………………………………15 

FINANCIAL AID 

Loans / Grants / Scholarships ………………………………………………….16 

FAFSA ………………………………………………………. ……………. …..17 

CAREER 

Achieve Texas Career Clusters …………………………………………18 

Career, Trade and Technical Schools …………………………………..19 

MILITARY 

U.S. Military & Academies ………….…………………………….….…20 

APPENDIX 

Websites……………………………………………………………….…21 

Notes………………………………………………………………….….22

Class of 2014: 

GRADUATION PLANS 

The Recommended Plan: All students are expected to graduate on the Recommended Plan. Exceptions 

are granted on an individual basis after a conference with student, parent and counselor. 

ENGLISH 4.0 English 1, English 2, English 3, English 4 

MATH 4.0 Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, 4 th year of mathematics -or- 

Algebra 1, Geometry, Math Models, Algebra 2 

SCIENCE 4.0 Biology, IP/C, Chemistry and Physics –or- 

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, 4 th year of science 

HISTORY 4.0 World Geography, World History, US History, Government, Economics 

HEALTH 0.5 Health 

FINE ARTS 1.0 Art, Music, Theatre, Dance 

SPEECH 0.5 Communication Applications ONLY 

P.E. 1.0 PE, Sport or equivalent 

LANGUAGE 2.0 Units must be of the same foreign language 

ELECTIVES 5.0 

Total 

26 units 

The Distinguished Achievement Plan: Recommended Plan plus four Advanced Measures 


MATH 4.0 Must be Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, 4 th year of mathematics 

SCIENCE 4.0 Biology, Chemistry, Physics, 4 th year of science 

HISTORY 4.0 World Geography, World History, US History, Government, Economics 


FINE ARTS 1.0 Art, Music, Theatre, Dance 



LANGUAGE 3.0 Units must be of the same foreign language 

ELECTIVES 4.0 

Total 

26 units 

THE ADVANCED MEASURES 

Score of 3 or more on a maximum of 4 AP exams. These will be determined after scores are received. 

Individual Advanced Measure (i.e. National Science Fair Winner) 

Through PSAT - Commended, Semi-Finalist, National Hispanic or National Achievement. [Only 1 allowed] 

Grade of A or B in college course above level offered in P.I.S.D. or P.I.S.D. Dual Enrollment Class 

The Minimum Plan: Student will be granted access to these requirements only after a conference with 

parent & counselor. 


MATH 3.0 Algebra 1, Geometry & 3 rd year of mathematics 

SCIENCE 3.0 Biology 1, IP/C, & 3 rd year of science -or- 

Biology, Chemistry, Physics 

HISTORY 4.0 World Geography, World History, US History, Government & Economics 




ELECTIVES 8.0 

Total 

24 units

SENIOR SCHEDULING OPTIONS 

Senior Release is a “District Procedure” (not mandated by a Federal or State Policy). The 

Principals at all three Senior High Schools with input from the Student Services (Counseling) 

Department put together the guidelines for granting seniors an extra release period. For 

further information see District Policy EED (Local). 

SENIOR SCHEDULE OPTION 1 

 

Take 7 classes 


A senior who has met the following criteria may be eligible to participate in the senior 

release program and take 6 classes: 

 

 

 

 

Must be on the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement 

Graduation Plan 

Must have passed all sections of the exit level TAKS 

Must have completed 17 credits by mid‐term 11 th grade 

Must have parental approval 


A senior who has met the following criteria may be eligible to participate in the senior 

release program and take 5 classes: 

 

 

 

 

 

Must be on the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement 

Graduation Plan 

Must have passed all sections of the exit level TAKS 

Must have completed 17.5 credits by mid‐term 11 th grade 

Must have parental approval 

Must be enrolled in 3 or more AP courses per semester with a total of 5 classes 

SCHEDULE CHANGE PROCEDURES 

All requests for schedule changes for the 2013‐2014 school year must be 

requested by May 31, 2013. No elective changes will be made after this date!

COLLEGE READINESS STANDARDS & The Uniform 

Admission Policy for Texas Colleges 

The state’s current higher education plan calls for the recommended high school program to 

be the default curriculum in Texas High Schools. This plan also calls for the recommended 

high school program to be the minimum requirement for admission to general academic 

teaching institutions in this state (4 year colleges/universities) 

The Texas Education Code (TEC) 51.803‐51.809 requires that all students meet one of the 

following college readiness standards in order to be eligible to be considered for admission 

at a Texas Four‐Year Public Institution: 

‐ Successfully complete the recommended or advanced high school graduation program 

‐ Satisfy the College readiness Benchmarks on the SAT or ACT assessment: 

1) SAT > 1500 out of 2400 (Verbal + Math + Writing) 

2) ACT > 18 English, 21 Reading, 22 Mathematics and 24 Science 

ACT College Readiness Benchmark Scores 

Test College 

Course 

Explore 

Grade 8 

Explore 

Grade 9 

Plan The 

ACT 

English English 13 14 15 18 

Composition 

Math Algebra 17 18 19 22 

Reading Social 15 16 17 21 

Sciences 

Science Biology 20 20 21 24 

College Board College Readiness Benchmark Scores 

(predicted score to have a 2.7 GPA or higher Freshman Year of college) 

PSAT/NMSQT 10 th Grade 11 th Grade 

Critical Reading 42 45 

Math 44 47 

Writing 42 45 

Composite 133 142 

SAT 

Critical Reading 590 

Math 610 

Composite 1180

COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCEDURE 

Try not to let the college application process overwhelm you. Starting early and staying 

organized will help! Each application is different, so be sure to read it CAREFULLY before 

beginning. Follow this guide to help eliminate confusion. 

LIST PSHS AS THE ONLY HIGH SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED ‐ NOT VINES OR JASPER!! 

Steps to applying to College: 

1. Most colleges offer an on‐line version of their application and prefer you to apply on‐line. 

a. You can apply for all Texas public universities at: www.applytexas.org 

b. You can apply for out‐of‐state and private universities at: www.commonapp.org 

2. Complete the application. Don’t forget to save it. 

3. Go to the Registrar’s office to complete at transcript request form. 

4. The Registrar sends your transcript electronically. 

5. Send your SAT and ACT scores to the colleges of your choice. 

a. Send your SAT scores from www.collegeboard.org 

b. Send your ACT scores from www.actstudent.org 

If your application requires a Counselor Letter of Recommendation: 

You will need to pick up a “Blue Packet” from the counseling receptionist. 

Blue Packet Instructions: 

a. Complete the top of each Teacher Information sheet. Make sure you give your teacher a due 

date – DO NOT leave it blank or write A.S.A.P. A good rule of thumb is to give them two 

weeks to return it to your counselor. 

b. Distribute all five of the Teacher Info sheets as early as possible. You may use teachers that 

you had at your 9‐10 school, but limit those teachers to two. Ask them to return the form to 

your counselor through inner school mail. Teachers need two weeks’ notice to fill out their 

part. 

c. Complete your part of the Student Profile Packet and have a parent/guardian complete their 

section as well. 

d. Make sure that your entire Blue Packet is turned in to your Counselor at least 3 weeks before 

you need your letter sent to the University. It is your responsibility to check with your 

Counselor to make sure that that your Counselor has all of the information needed to write 

your letter of recommendation.

COLLEGE ADMISSION & FINANCIAL AID PLANS 

COLLEGE NAME: __________________________________________ 

ADDRESS: 

__________________________________________ 

__________________________________________ 

WEBSITE: 

__________________________________________ 

ADMISSION’S OFFICE TELEPHONE # _____________________________ 

COLLEGE ADMISSION 

APPLICATION: 

Deadline: ___________________ 

Date sent: ___________________ 

ESSAY(S): 

Required: Y or N 

Date completed: _______________ 

Date sent: ___________________ 

RECOMMENDATIONS(S): 

Required: Y or N 

Date Blue Packet given 

to Counselor: _________________ 

Date stamped/addressed Envelope 

given to teachers: ______________ 

HONORS COLLEGE APPLICATION: 

Date sent: ______________________ 

HOUSING APPLICATION: 

Date sent: ______________________ 

TRANSCRIPT: 

Date requested: ________________ 

Addressed envelope given to 

Registrar? Y or N 

Hold for Counselor Rec? Y or No 

ADMISSION TESTS: 

Date SAT Taken: __________________ 

Date ACT Taken: __________________ 

Date TSI Taken? __________________ 

FINANCIAL AID 

FAFSA: 

Date completed:_________________ 

Date sent: ____________________ 

COLLEGE FINANCIAL AID APPLICATION: 

Date completed:_________________ 

Date sent: ____________________ 

SCHOLARSHIPS: 

Name: __________________________ 

Due Date: ______________________ 

Date Sent: _____________________ 

Requirements: __________________ 

__________________ 

__________________ 

Name: _________________________ 

Due Date: _____________________ 

Date Sent: ____________________ 

Requirements: _________________ 

_________________ 

_________________ 

Name: _________________________ 

Due Date: ______________________ 

Date Sent: _____________________ 

Requirements: __________________ 

__________________ 

_________________

COMMUNITY COLLEGES 

ASSOCIATE DEGREE You could earn an Associate’s Degree by taking related course work beyond the basic certificate 

program. This degree will provide you the background to get a job in your field of study. With an Associate’s Degree you have 

the option of transferring to a four‐year university as a junior. 

WHY STUDENTS CHOOSE A COMMUNITY COLLEGE 

Small classes with individualized instruction 

Affordable with tuition sometimes one half the price of a four‐year school 

Open enrollment accepting high school graduates and students with a GED 

Transferable courses to a four‐year university (consult the college counselor) 

Close to home 

Less stressful transition 

Opportunity to build remedial skills, before moving on to a four‐year university 

Job training courses that lead to a career in two years or less 

SELECTED COMMUNITY COLLEGES ENROLL ADMISSION SPECIAL INFO 

AUSTIN COMM COLL www.austin.cc.edu 33,000 Open Admission 

Austin 512.223.7503 No Housing 

BLINN COLLEGE www.blinn.edu 9,000 Open Admission Blinn Team 

Brenham 979.830.4140 Housing 

(Texas A & M) 

BROOKHAVEN www.brookhavencollege.edu 8,000 Open Admission 

Farmer's Branch 972.860.4152 No Housing 

COLLIN COLLEGE www.ccccd.edu 19,000 Open Admission 

7 campuses 972.881.5710 Housing 

EL CENTRO www.elcentrocollege.edu 3,000 Open Admission 

Dallas 214.860.2311 No Housing 

KILGORE COLLEGE www.kilgore.edu 4,300 Open Admission 

Kilgore 903.983.8209 Housing 

McLENNAN COMM www.mclennan.edu 4,000 Open Admission 

COLL 

Waco 254.299.8628 No Housing 

RICHLAND www.rlc.dcccd.edu 15,000 Open Admission 

Dallas 972.238.6106 No Housing 

SOUTH PLAINS www.southplainscollege.edu 7,800 Open Admission Gateway Program 

Levelland 806.894.9611 EXT 2373 Housing 

(Texas Tech) 

Texas State Tech www.waco.tstc.edu 4,000 Open Admission 

Waco 254.867.2361 No Housing 

TYLER JR COLL www.tjc.edu 12,000 Open Admission 

Tyler 903.510.2523 Housing 

POSSIBLE FIELDS OF STUDY AT COMMUNITY COLLEGES 

Automobile Technology 

Criminal Justice 

Fire Safety 

Auto Body Technology 

Dental Assistant 

Gaming Graphics 

Aviation 

Drafting 

Graphic Design 

Culinary Arts 

Emergency Medical Services 

Health Occupations 

Computer Sciences 

Fashion Design 

Legal Studies 

Cosmetology 

Fashion Marketing 

Real Estate

SELECTED TEXAS PUBLIC COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES 

College Contact Information UG Enroll Class Rank SAT REASON ACT 

ANGELO STATE angelo.edu 5,700 11% ‐ 50% 820 17 

San Angelo 325.942.2041 3rd Quarter Review Review 

Part of Texas Tech system 4th Quarter Review Review 

MIDWESTERN STATE mwsu.edu 5,600 11% ‐ 50% 990 21 

Wichita Falls 800.842.1922 3rd quarter 1070 23 

940.397.4334 4th quarter 1110 24 

PRAIRIE VIEW A & M pvamu.edu 7,400 Unconditional 820 17 

Prairie View 936.261.1000 Conditional 710 15‐16 

SAM HOUSTON STATE shsu.edu 14,500 11% ‐ 25% 850 17 

Huntsville 936.294.1828 2nd quarter 930 19 

3rd quarter 1030 22 

4th quarter 1140 25 

STEPHEN F AUSTIN sfasu.edu 11,150 11% ‐ 25% No minimum No minimum 

Nacogdoches 936.468.2504 2nd quarter 850 17 


4th quarter Review Review 

TARLETON STATE (A&M) tarleton.edu 7,300 11% ‐ 50% No minimum No minimum 

Stephenville 800.687.8236 3rd quarter 950 20 

(final transcript must be sent for students in 4 th quarter) 4 th quarter 1030 22 

TEXAS A & M tamu.edu 38,700 11%‐25% 1300 (min 600 each) 30 (min 27 E&M) 

College Station 979.458.0427 2 nd ‐4 th quarter Review Review 

TEXAS A&M tamu‐commerce.edu 5,200 11%‐25% No minimum No minimum 

Commerce 903.886.5081 2 nd ‐4 th quarter 950 20 

TEXAS A&M tamucc.edu 7,600 11% ‐ 25% 900 19 

Corpus Christi 361.825.7024 2 nd quarter 1000 21 

800.4TAMUCC 3 rd quarter 1100 23 

4 th quarter 1200 27 

TEXAS A&M Tamug.edu 1,700 11% ‐ 25% 1300 30 

Galveston 877.322.4443 

TX SOUTHERN tsu.edu 7,300 All students 820 17 

Houston 713.313.7071 with 2.5 GPA 

TEXAS STATE txstate.edu 26,000 11% ‐ 25% 920 20 

San Marcos 512.245.2364 2 nd quarter 1010 22 

3 rd quarter 1180 26 

4 th quarter 1270 29 

TEXAS TECH ttu.edu 24,200 11% ‐ 25% 1140 25 

Lubbock 806.742.1480 2 nd Quarter 1230 28 

Bottom 50% 1270 29 

TEXAS WOMANS twu.edu 7,700 11% ‐ 25% No minimum No minimum 

Denton 940.898.3188 Top 50% 1000 21 

UNIV HOUSTON uh.edu 28,000 11% ‐ 15% No minimum No minimum 

Houston 713.743.1010 16%‐25% 1000 21 

26% ‐ 50% 1100 24 

3 rd ‐4 th quarter Review Review 

UNIV NORTH TEXAS Unt.edu 28,500 11% ‐ 25% 950 20 

Denton 800.868.8211 2 nd Quarter 1050 23 

3 rd Quarter 1180 26 

UNIV TEXAS uta.edu 19,200 11% ‐ 25% No minimum No minimum 

Arlington 817.272.6287 2 nd Quarter 1050 22 

800.687.2882 3 rd ‐4 th quarter Review only Review only

College Information UG Enroll Class Rank SAT REASON ACT 

UNIV TEXAS utexas.edu 37,500 

Austin 512.475.7440 

UNIV TEXAS utdallas.edu 9,600 11% ‐ 15% 1200 26 

Dallas 972.883.2270 All others Review Review 

U TEXAS utsa.edu 24,800 11% ‐ 25% No minimum No minimum 

San Antonio 210.458.8000 2nd quarter 1100 24 

3 rd ‐4 th quarter Review Review 

U TEXAS uttyler.edu 5,000 11% ‐ 25% 1410 20 

Tyler 903.566.7202 2nd quarter 1500 21 

(SAT includes Crit Read, 800.888.9537 3rd quarter 1530 22 

Math & Writing scores) 4th quarter 1590 23 

WEST TX A&M wtamu.edu 6,200 11% ‐ 25% 860 18 

Canyon 800.999.8268 2nd quarter 900 19 


4th quarter 980 21 

HB588 states students graduating in the Top 10% of their class will be 

granted unconditional admission to any Texas Public School. 

Exception is the University of Texas @ Austin where unconditional 

admission will be limited to the Top 7%. 

EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY OF THIS FORM; 

HOWEVER, IT IS UP TO THE INDIVIDUAL STUDENT TO CONTACT THE COLLEGE 

OR UNIVERSITY OF CHOICE TO MAKE SURE THERE HAVE BEEN NO CHANGES 

IN THE ADMISSION STANDARDS. 

01/13

SELECTED PRIVATE & OUT-OF-STATE COLLEGES 

COLLEGE NAME LOCATION UG 

ENROLL 

% 

ACCEPTED 

AVERAGE 

SAT/ACT 

YEARLY 

COST 

ARIZONA STATE TEMPE, AZ 53,900 91% 1040/22 31,600 

AUBURN UNIV AUBURN, AL 20,000 80% 1180/26 32,000 

AUSTIN COLLEGE SHERMAN, TX 1,325 80% 1250/26 40,800 

BAYLOR UNIV WACO, TX 12,000 50% 1205/25 41,400 

BOSTON COLLEGE CHESTNUT HILL, MA 9,200 30% 1370/30 52,900 

BOSTON UNIV BOSTON, MA 16,300 58% 1275/27 52,500 

BROWN UNIV PROVIDENCE, RI 6,000 11% 1440/30 53,700 

CARNEGIE MELLON PITTSBURGH, PA 5,950 36% 1410/31 53,700 

COL SCH OF MINES GOLDEN, CO 3,600 63% 1290/28 37,600 

COLORADO STATE FT COLLINS, CO 21,000 72% 1130/25 34,000 

COLUMBIA NEW YORK, NY 5,750 10% 1490/32 53,700 

CORNELL ITHACA, NY 14,000 19% 1385/30 50,100 

DUKE UNIV DURHAM, NC 6,400 19% 1560/32 55,000 

EMORY UNIV ATLANTA, GA 5,250 30% 1420/30 52,700 

FLORIDA STATE TALLAHASSEE, FL 39,250 61% 1230/26 32,200 

GEORGETOWN WASHINGTON DC 7,100 20% 1420/30 55,000 

HARVARD CAMBRIDGE, MA 6,700 7% 1500/32 52,000 

HENDRIX COLL. CONWAY, AR 1,450 81% 1260/29 41,000 

INDIANA UNIV BLOOMINGTON, IN 32,000 73% 1180/27 36,900 

IOWA STATE AMES, IA 2200 85% 1150/25 29,000 

JOHNS HOPKINS BALTIMORE, MD 4,900 27% 1420/31 55,900 

KANSAS STATE MANHATTAN, KS 18,250 55% NA/25 28,900 

LOUISIANA STATE BATON ROUGE, LA 22,600 69% 1175/25 25,500 

MIT CAMBRIDGE, MA 4,200 11% 1490/33 52,000 

NEW YORK UNIV NEW YORK, NY 21,200 38% 1330/29 54,000 

NORTHWESTERN EVANSTON, IL 8,900 26% 1480/31 53,500 

NOTRE DAME NOTRE DAME, IN 8,400 29% 1450/32 50,600 

OHIO STATE UNIV COLUMBUS, OH 40,200 76% 1340/27 36,500 

OKLA STATE STILLWATER, OK 17,600 86% 1100/25 26,900 

PENN STATE UNIVERSITY PARK, PA 37,900 52% 1210/NA 38,900 

PRINCETON PRINCETON, NJ 5,000 10% 1510/32 52,100 

PURDUE UNIV W. LAFAYETT, IN 31,000 73% 1160/26 36,600 

RICE UNIV HOUSTON, TX 3,300 22% 1440/32 45,600 

SMU DALLAS, TX 6,200 53% 1260/27 52,400 

STANFORD STANFORD, CA 6,500 8% 1460/32 54,500 

TCU FORT WORTH, TX 7,600 59% 1160/26 40,600 

TRINITY SAN ANTONIO, TX 2,500 59% 1320/29 40,200

COLLEGE NAME LOCATION UG 

ENROLL 

% 

ACCEPTED 

AVERAGE 

SAT/ACT 

YEARLY 

COST 

TULANE NEW ORLEANS, LA 7,510 26% 1370/30 52,400 

UNIV ALABAMA TUSCALOOSA, AL 23,500 57% 1130/25 30,000 

UNIV ARIZONA TUCSON, AZ 30,000 78% 1110/24 34,250 

UNIV ARKANSAS FAYETTEVILL, AR 15,500 56% 1180/26 26,260 

UNIV COLORADO BOULDER, CO 26,400 84% 1190/26 44,000 

UNIV FLORIDA GAINESVILLE, FL 33,000 39% 1270/27 35,500 

UNIV KANSAS LAWRENCE, KS 20,250 91% NA/25 30,100 

UNIV MICHIGAN ANN ARBOR, MI 26,000 50% 1350/29 47,000 

UNIV MISSISSIPPI UNIVERSITY, MS 13,000 79% 1045/23 19,300 

UNIV MISSOURI COLUMBIA, MO 23,500 83% 1185/25 30,500 

UNIV NEBRASKA LINCOLN, NE 19,000 63% 1160/26 28,300 

UNIV N CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL, NC 17,500 32% 1330/28 34,500 

UNIV OKLAHOMA NORMAN, OK 20,700 93% 1160/26 28,600 

UNIV PENN PHILADELPHIA, PA 9,750 18% 1470/32 53,100 

UNIV TULSA TULSA, OK 3,000 50% 1250/28 39,400 

UNIV VIRGINIA CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 14,200 32% 1450/30 39,500 

UCLA LOS ANGELES, CA 26,700 22% 1295/27 48,300 

USC LOS ANGELES, CA 16,500 24% 1370/30 53,200 

VANDERBILT NASHVILLE, TN 6,700 20% 1470/32 54,500 

WAKE FOREST WINSTON SALEM, NC 4,560 38% 1300/29 53,500 

WASHINGTON UNIV ST. LOUIS, MO 6,400 22% 1510/33 56,900 

YALE UNIV NEW HAVEN, CT 5,300 8% 1520/32 52,500 

EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY OF THIS FORM, 

HOWEVER, IT IS UP TO THE INDIVIDUAL STUDENT TO CONTACT THE COLLEGE OR 

UNIVERSITY OF CHOICE TO MAKE SURE THERE HAVE BEEN NO CHANGES IN THE 

ADMISSION STANDARDS. 

01/13

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS TESTING 

ACT 

The ACT is a 3 hour and 15 minute test consisting of five subtests: English (English usage), 

Math (based on Algebra I, II, Geometry, and Trigonometry), Reading, Science Reasoning (a 

science‐based reasoning test), and Writing (optional, but students are strongly encouraged 

to take it). The subtests measure ability to perform typical intellectual tasks asked of 

college students and are designed to measure intellectual skills and abilities, not specific 

content. ACT scores range from 1‐36 with the composite score being the average of all five 

subtests. 

National Test Dates 2013 

TEST DATE REGISTRATION DEADLINE LATE FEE DEADLINE 

February 9 January 11 January 18 

April 13 March 8 March 22 

June 8 May 3 May 17 

Register to take the ACT test at: www.actstudent.org 

ACT Help‐line (319) 337‐1270 

Plano Senior High School CEEB Code 445‐565 

Tips for taking the ACT 

*Answer every question. Your scores on the multiple–choice tests are based on the number of questions you 

answer correctly. There is no penalty for guessing. 

*Read the question or passage carefully. 

*Read and consider all of the answer choices before you choose the one that best corresponds to the 

question. 

English Section: Be aware of the writing style used in the passage. Consider the elements of writing that are 

included in each underlined part of the passage. In questions with no underlined portions you will be asked 

questions about a section of the passage or the whole passage. Be sure to re‐read the sentence, using your 

selected answer, for verification of selection. 

Mathematics Section: Read each question carefully to make sure you understand the type of answer required. 

Solve the problem and then locate your solution among the answer choices. Make sure you answer the 

question asked and your answer is reasonable. If you use a calculator, be sure it is working on test day and has 

reliable batteries. 

Reading Section: Read passage for understanding prior to answering the questions. Refer to the passage 

when answering the questions. 

Science Section: Note different viewpoints in passages.

SAT 

The SAT Reasoning Test is divided into three subtests: Critical Reading, Math and Writing. Each 

subtest will be scored between 200 and 800 with a perfect score being 2400. The SAT is 3 hours 

and 35 minutes in length. Writing: Students are asked to write an essay that requires them to take 

a position on an issue and use examples to support their position. Multiple‐choice questions are 

also included to see how well students use standard written English. Math: The math section 

includes Algebra II topics, such as exponential growth, absolute value, and functional notation, and 

places greater emphasis on other topics such as linear functions, manipulations with exponents, 

and properties of tangent lines. Questions are multiple choice. Critical Reading: The critical 

reading section includes short reading passages along with long reading passages. Questions are 

multiple‐choice. 

National Test Dates 2013 

TEST DATE REGISTRATION DEADLINE LATE FEE DEADLINE 

March 9 February 8 February 22 

May 4 April 5 April 19 

June 1 May 2 May 17 

Register to take the SAT test at: satcollegeboard.org/register 

SAT Help‐line 1 (866) 756‐7346 

Plano Senior High School CEEB Code 445‐565 

Tips for taking the SAT 

• To learn how the SAT test is scored, visit http://sat.collegeboard.org/scores/how‐sat‐is‐scored 

You neither gain nor lose credit for questions you omit. 

• Since all correct answers receive one point, answer all the questions that seem easy before 

you spend time on those that seem difficult. 

• You can guess. If you know that one or more answer choices for a question are definitely 

wrong, then it is generally to your advantage to guess from the remaining choices. But because of 

the way the test is scored, random guessing is unlikely to increase your score. 

• You do not have to answer every question correctly to score well. In fact, many students 

who answer only 40‐60 percent of the questions correctly receive average or slightly above average 

scores. 

• Use the test book for scratch work and to mark questions you omitted, so you can go back to 

them if you have time. You will not receive credit for any responses written in the test book. 

(Adapted from “Taking the SAT” College Entrance Examination Board) 

SAT SUBJECT TESTS 

Some colleges require SAT subject test(s) for admission. (Please make note that these tests are not 

required for all schools.) The SAT subject tests are designed to measure knowledge and the ability 

to apply that knowledge in specific subject areas. Students take the subject tests to demonstrate 

to colleges their mastery of specific subjects like English, History and Social Studies, Mathematics, 

Science, and Language.

WHICH TEST IS RIGHT FOR YOU? SAT vs 

ACT 

SAT 

ACT 

How often is it administered? Seven times per year. Six times per year. 

What is the test structure? 

Ten section exam: 

3 Critical Reading sections 

3 Math sections 

3 Writing sections 

1 experimental section: 

the experimental section is 

masked to look like a regular section. 

Five section exam: 

1 English section 

1 Math section 

1 Reading section 

1 Science section 

Writing (strongly encouraged) 

**An experimental section is 

added to tests on certain dates 

only, and is clearly experimental. 

What is the test content? 

Math: up to 9 th grade basic geometry 

and Algebra 2 

Critical Reading: sentence 

completions, short and long critical 

reading passages, reading 

comprehension 

Writing: an essay and questions testing 

grammar, usage, and word choice 

Math: up to trigonometry 

Science: charts, experiments 

Reading: one each of 

Prose Fiction 

Social Science 

Humanities 

Natural Science 

English: stresses grammar 

Writing: an essay 

Penalty for wrong answers? 

How is the test scored? 

Yes 

200 ‐ 800 per section, added together 

for a combined score. 

2400 is considered the highest possible 

combined score. 

No 

1 ‐ 36 for each subject, averaged 

together for a composite score 

36 is the highest possible 

composite score. 

How are scores reported to 

colleges? 

It is the student’s responsibility to 

request test scores be sent to colleges 

through College Board 

It is the student’s responsibility to 

request test scores be sent to 

colleges through ACT 

Best time to register At least six weeks before the test date. At least four weeks before the 

test date. 

Website www.collegeboard.org www.actstudent.org

OTHER TESTING INFORMATION 

TAKS 

The Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) assesses the statewide curriculum, 

the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). TAKS tests assess students in ways that 

reflect sound classroom instruction. 

Students are required to take and master the Exit level TAKS before receiving a diploma. 

Exit level TAKS is administered in the 11 th grade. Subjects assessed are: English Language 

Arts (reading and writing combined), Mathematics, Science and Social Studies. 

Students not successful in mastering any section of the TAKS will have the opportunity to 

retake the non‐mastered section until they are successful. 

More information regarding TAKS and practice TAKS tests can be found at: 

www.tea.state.tx.us 

TEXAS SUCCESS INITIATIVE 

TSI is a program which requires testing in reading, mathematics, and writing designed to 

ensure that all students attending Texas public colleges and universities have the skills 

necessary to perform effectively in college‐level coursework. 

There are several different tests to meet the TSI requirement: Texas Higher Education 

Assessment (THEA – the most popular), ASSET, COMPASS, and ACCUPLACER. 

Students are exempt from individual areas of testing (on a single sitting) if any one of the 

following is met: 

READING: 

MATH: 

WRITING: 

ACT: Composite 23 and English 19 OR 

SAT: Composite 1070(critical reading and math) and Verbal/Critical Reading 500 OR 

TAKS: ELA 2200 & Writing Essay score 3 

ACT: Composite 23 and Math 19 OR 

SAT: Composite 1070(critical reading and math) and Math 500 OR 

TAKS: Math 2200 

ACT: Composite 23 and English 19 OR 

SAT: Composite 1070(critical reading and math) and Verbal/Critical Reading 500 OR 

TAKS: ELA 2200 & Writing Essay score 3

FINANCIAL AID 

LOANS: 

Reasonable interest rate – does not have to be repaid until you leave college 

Federal Family Education Loan Program: loans are made directly to student by 

participating commercial lending institutions, such as banks or savings and loans. The 

college Financial Aid office can help you identify participating institutions. A Financial 

Aid form is required. 

Perkins Loans: Eligibility is based on your financial need as determined by information 

on a completed needs analysis form. 

Hinson‐Hazelwood College Student Loans: loan is for legal residents of Texas. 

Eligibility is based on financial need as determined by information on a completed 

needs analysis form. 

Plus Loans: are for parent borrowers and provides additional funds for educational 

expenses and are made by a lender such as a bank, savings and loan association or 

credit union. 

GRANTS: 

Based on financial need and does not have to be repaid 

PELL Grant: the amount you receive is determined by your family size , number of 

family members in college and the income and assets of your parents, siblings and 

yourself 

Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG): eligibility is based on exceptional 

need. Assessment is made after you have completed the financial aid form and have 

had the information from your needs assessment sent to the college(s) of your 

choice. 

Texas Equalization Grant (TEG): if you are applying to a private college in Texas, you 

may apply for a TEG by completing the financial aid form and the TEG application 

form, which can be obtained from the Financial Aid Office of the private college. 

SCHOLARSHIPS: 

Awarded according to need and/or achievement 

PSHS receives information on local scholarships throughout the school year. 

Scholarships are updated on a regular basis and are announced on the website and 

posted in the Counseling Center. 

University and college web sites have listings of scholarships available at their 

campus. 

FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID: 

Toll Free Number > 1‐800‐4 Fed Aid

FAFSA 

FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID (FAFSA): 

www.fafsa.ed.gov 

The FAFSA is one of the most important documents to be completed for federal and state student 

grants and loans. The application needs to be submitted as early as possible, but no earlier than 

January 1 st of the student’s high school senior year. 

The FAFSA establishes the expected family contribution (EFP) based on the families earnings 

for the full year prior to starting college. 

The FAFSA4caster allows high school juniors to determine early eligibility. Visit the website 

at www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov to access this tool. 

Parents and students may need the following records to complete the FAFSA: 

1) Federal income tax returns 

2) W‐2 forms and other records of money earned 

3) Social Security number 

4) Driver’s license 

5) Records of untaxed income (welfare, social security, veteran’s benefits) 

6) Current bank statements, mortgage and investment records 

7) Records of medical and dental bills 

8) Records of stocks, bonds and other investments 

 

FAFSA Tips: 

1) Fill out the form as soon as possible after January 1. 

2) Do not leave any fields blank. Enter “0” if a question does not apply. 

3) List your information accurately. 

4) Take your time and follow the instructions. 

5) Sign the application (use pin # for electronic) 

6) Fill out the FAFSA every year.

Achieve Texas Career Clusters 

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources: Park Naturalist, Game Manager, Turf Manager, Farm/Ranch 

Management, Animal Trainer, Floral Designer 

Architecture & Construction: Draftsman, Landscape Architect, Preservationist, Surveyor, Interior Design, 

Architect, Construction 

Arts, A/V Technology & Communication: Photographer, Fashion Designer, Journalist, Librarian, Sound 

Engineering, Public Relations 

Business, Management & Administration: Office Manager, Operations Analyst, Human Resources, 

Statistician, Interpreter/Translator 

Education & Training: Teacher, Fitness Trainer, Outdoor Ed Specialist, School Psychologist, Teacher Assistant 

Finance: Actuary, Economist, Market Analyst, Insurance, Loan Officer, Bank Officer, Accountant, 

Stockbroker. Financial Investigator (Fraud) 

Government & Public Administration: Foreign Service, Urban Planner, Civil Engineer, Homeland Security, Air 

Traffic Controller, Compliance 

Health Sciences: Nurse, Doctor, Physician Assistant, Physical Therapist, Pharmacy Tech, Website 

Administrator, Graphic Designer 

Hospitality & Tourism: Hotel/Restaurant Management, Chef, Travel/Reservations Agent, Meeting Planner, 

Cruise Director 

Human Services: Mental Health Therapist, Teacher, Dietician, Child Care, Financial Advisor, Social Worker 

Information Technology: Electrical Engineer, Computer Engineer, Interactive Media, Software Development, 

Computer Programming 

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security: Corrections, Law Enforcement, Legal Services, Lawyer, Fireman, 

Policeman 

Manufacturing: Robotics Designer, Machinist, Automation Technician, Purchasing Agent; Technicians, 

Operations manager, Welder 

Marketing, Sales & Services: Event Planner, e‐Marketer, Politics, Marketing Director, Merchandise Displayer, 

Retail sales 

Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Oceanographer, Meteorologist, Video Game Designer, 

Nanotechnologist, Physicist 

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics: Pilot, Driver, Aerospace Engineer, Aircraft Mechanic, 

Import/Export Operation

CAREER, TRADE AND TECHNICAL SCHOOLS 

CAREER, TRADE and TECHNICAL schools offer specialized courses that focus on skills in a wide variety of career 

fields. They are usually privately owned, although there are a few public* technical colleges in Texas as well. 

Students benefit from: 

smaller classes and individual attention 

“hands on training” 

many courses can be completed in less than a year to a year‐and‐a‐half 

career placement assistance 

Below is a sampling of schools in Texas and the Metroplex area: 

Anthem College 

www.anthem.edu 

Medical & Dental Assistant, Pharmacy Tech, Surgical Tech, Basic Massage Therapy, Medical Billing/Coding 

Art Institute of Dallas 

www.artinstitutes.edu 

Advertising, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Animation, Audio/Video, Game Design, Photography, Web Design, Hotel & 

Restaurant, Hospitality, Fashion Design, Culinary Arts 

ATI Career Training 

www.aticareertraining.edu 

Medical & Dental Assistant, Ultrasound Technology, Message Therapy, Medical Office & Billing, Respiratory Therapy, 

HVAC, Automotive, Welding 

CCI Training Center 

www.cci‐training.com 

Medical Billing/Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy, Medical Front Office, Office & Business Skills, IT/Computer 

Concorde Career Institute 

www.concorde.edu 

Medical & Dental Assistant, Medical Office Administration, Vocational Nurse, Surgical Technician 

Court Reporting Institute of Dallas 

www.crid.com 

Court Reporting; Closed Captioning, Government Reporting, Medical Transcriptions, Media Room Reporting 

DeVry University 

www.devry.edu 

Health Sciences, Business & Management, Information Sciences, Media Arts 

Everest College 

www.everest.edu 

Health Related Careers, HVAC, Electrical; Business, Criminal Justice 

ITT Technical Institute 

www.itt‐tech.edu 

Business Management, Nursing, Electrical Engineering, Computer Technology 

Iverson Business School 

www.iversonschool.edu 

Surgical Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Medical Assistant, Medical Records, Claims Technician 

Kaplan College 

www.kaplancollege.com 

Medical & Dental Assistant, Computer Networking, Medical Billing, Coding Specialist 

KD Studio Actors Conservatory 

Acting, Film, Musical Theatre 

Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts 

Culinary Arts, Patisserie, Baking 

www.kdstudio.com 

www.dallasculinary.com 

Lincoln Tech 

www.lincolncollegeoftechnology.com 

Automotive/Diesel, Welding, Collision Repair, HVAC, Electrical Technology 

Ogle School of Hair Design 

Hair Styling & Care, Cosmetology, Facials, Nails 

www.ogleschool.com 

PCI Health Training Center 

www.pcihealth.edu 

Medical Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Medical Office Administration 

Platt College 

www.plattcolleges.edu 

Medical & Dental Asst, Vocational Nursing, Health Information Technology, Home Entertainment & Networking Tech, 

Network Systems Administration & Security, Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technician, Medical Office Administration 

Texas State Technical College* 

www.tstc.edu 

Agriculture, Construction, Audio/Video Arts, Business Administration and Management, Health Science, 

Hospitality/Tourism, Human Services, Information Technology, Public Safety, Manufacturing, Transportation

U.S. MILITARY ACADEMIES APPLICATION PROCESS 

SPRING: JUNIOR YEAR 

Write your congressman and 2 Senators 

Fill out preliminary information online for the academy of your choice 

Take ACT and/or SAT in the spring 

Begin nomination process in June 

Feb thru April – Apply for summer leadership conferences at academies (optional) 

SUMMER BETWEEN JUNIOR/SENIOR YEAR 

Request Presidential nomination, if eligible 

FALL/WINTER SENIOR YEAR 

Follow‐up Congressional/Senate nomination 

Meet with Liaison Officer for academy of your choice 

Senator Ted Cruz R 

Dallas Office: 

10440 N. Central Expressway, Ste. 1160 

Dallas, TX 75231 

214.361.3500 

Senator John Cornyn R 

Dallas Office: 

5001 Spring Valley Rd., Ste. 1125E 

Dallas, TX 75244 

972.239.1310 

Congressman Sam Johnson R District 3 

Local Office: 

2929 N. Central Expressway, Ste. 240 

Richardson, TX 75080 

972.470.0892 

Admissions Office 

U.S. Military Academy 

West Point, NY 10996 


U.S. Naval Academy 

Annapolis, MD 21402 


U.S. Air Force Academy 

U.S.A.F. Academy. CO 0840 

COAST GUARD ACADEMY & MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY 

These academies have an admissions procedure similar to highly competitive colleges. 

There is no nomination process involved. 


U.S. Coast Guard Academy 

New London, CT 06320 


Merchant Marine Academy 

Kings Point, NY 10024 

ROTC 

Contact an enlistment recruiter about ROTC and general enlistment information. 

Army – www.goarmy.com Air Force – www.afrotc.com Navy – www.navy.com 

US Coast Guard – www.uscg.mil/ US Marines – www.marines.com

WEBSITES 

ATHLETICS 

http://web1.ncaa.org/eligibilitycenter 

www.ncaaclearinghouse.net 

www.ncaa.org 

www.naia.org 

www.njcaa.org 

BLUE PACKET 

http://k‐12.pisd.edu/Schools/PSHS/Counseling/BluePacket 

CAREER COLLEGES & SCHOOLS 

www.ccst.org 

www.career.org 

COLLEGE & CAREER PLANNING 

www.bigfuture.org 

http://ur.pisd.edu/index.shtml 

www.texasjamp.org 

www.utexas.edu/world/univ/state 

www.collegeforalltexans.com 

COLEGE APPLICATIONS 

www.applytexas.org 

www.commonapp.org 

www.universalcollegeapp.com 

www.eduinconline.com 

www.questbridge.org 

PSHS COUNSELING FACEBOOK PAGE 

www.facebook.com/PSHSCounselingDept 

MILITARY ACADEMIES 

www.academyadmissions.com 

www.usna.edu/admissions 

http://admissions.usma.edu 

OCCUPATIONS 

www.bls.gov/oco 

www.texashotjobs.org 

ROTC 

www.goarmy.com 

www.afrotc.com 

www.navy.com 

www.uscg.mil/ 

www.usmc.mil/ 

TESTING 

www.tea.state.tx.us 

www.ets.org/toefl 

www.thea.nesinc.com 

www.collegeboard.org 

www.actstudent.org 

$$$$$$ 

www.fafsa.ed.gov 

www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov 

www.pin.ed.gov 

www.collegeforalltexans.com 

www.thecb.state.tx.us 

www.everychanceeverytexan.org/about/scholars 

“My College Dollars” (facebook app)

NOTES

PLANO SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR TO ... - K12 - Plano ISD

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