Applying for college is an inevitable right of passage that every high school student must go through, but sometimes, it can be complicated. To make the process easier The Chronicle had Beckman seniors and counselors answer some of your biggest questions.


Junior Tiffany Rivas: When do I start the college application process?
 
"You should start submitting your applications during the fall of your senior year. As far as researching colleges, deciding what major to pursue, and figuring out what tests to take, you can get started as early as your freshman year through Naviance." – Counselor Ms. Ehret
 
Freshman Elizabeth Sawyer: Are there any face-to-face interviews involved when applying to colleges?
 
"Yes, some colleges require them, and some colleges make it optional. I would recommend it. If you have an opportunity to talk to an admission's person in person, I would definitely take advantage of it. Some students think that if something is optional, they shouldn't do it, but I think this is a case where you should go for it." – Counselor Ms. Ehret
 
Should I visit the college campuses of every college I apply to?
 
"I recommend it. It is very important for students to experience their prospective colleges firsthand to ensure that the college is right for them. You want to make sure that it is a good match." – Counselor Ms. Ehret
 
Freshman Nishal Uka: What is the ideal GPA that colleges look for?
 
"Each college has different requirements. The higher the GPA, and the more rigorous the classes, the better." –Counselor Ms. Ehret
 
Do colleges care more about grades or extracurriculars?
 
"Grades. However, if a student had a perfect GPA, perfect test scores, and no activities outside of school, they probably won't be admitted. There needs to be a balance." – Counselor Ms. Ehret

Freshman Shaunt Ozoozian: Does it look better to have an A in a CP class or a B in an Honors/AP class?
 
"Honestly, I think that you should aim for an A in any type of class."
 
Sophomore Krystal Dionio: Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
 
"Since I'm a really strong English student, I'm taking the ACT. If you're better at math, take the SAT. It would be a good idea to take both, and see how you do." – Junior Nicole Mendoza
 
What exams do you have to take to get into an international college?
 
"It depends on the school you plan to apply to. Typically, they require the SAT or the ACT -similar to the schools in California. If you are looking to apply to an international school, I would recommend going on Naviance or on the school's website, and looking up the specific requirements." –Counselor Ms. Ehret