The College and Career Center provides resources to help students plan for college and career, including researching colleges, college applications, financial aid, scholarships, SAT/ACT testing and more. Check the Important Links section on the right side of this page for helpful information. Contact: Linda Norris, College and Career Advisor, norrisl@manateeschools.net

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

SAT/ACT tests. These college entrance exams are required by many 4-year colleges/universities, Florida Bright Futures Scholarships and other scholarships. Taking them second semester of Junior year is the recommended timeframe. Since most students take them 2 or 3 times, you are encouraged to register/take them now so that you are prepared to apply to colleges fall of senior year. Students must register themselves online - click here for dates, registration deadlines and links. Questions? Contact Mrs. Norris, College and Career Advisor.

FLORIDA BRIGHT FUTURES - all seniors should complete the Florida Financial Aid Application. This one application is used for all state of Florida grants/scholarships, including BRIGHT FUTURES!  It's easy, online and only takes a few minutes. Seniors should complete it now - even if they are still working on the requirements, like service hours or test scores. Learn more about all the state scholarships, including Bright Futures here.

FAFSA - the key to getting money to help pay for college - all seniors should complete the FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid - ASAP!! You might qualify for thousands of dollars to help pay for college. Learn more about the FAFSA here. Need help filling it out? Attend any of our free spring workshops (via Zoom) where experts will help you and your parents complete the application. See workshop dates/times/Zoom link here.

College and Career Planning Tools

Students can learn more about different types of colleges, take virtual tours and explore careers by visiting websites. There are 4-year colleges and universities, 2-year colleges and technical colleges for students to research. As early as 9th and 10th grade, it's important to understand what different colleges require, like having at least two years of a World Language, so that they make informed choices in high school. Juniors should start making a list of colleges they want to apply to and understand application requirements and deadlines.  These are some resources to help:

Explore MTC Video (Overview of Manatee Technical College)

Florida Shines - virtual tour videos

Big Future - College planning and career exploration site

Career Planning resources - sometimes having an idea of a career can help students determine what type of college is right for them.