Seniors, Beware: An Acceptance Does Not Give You a Vacation
THIS IS A WARNING!!
“Senioritis” sets in during the spring semester of high schools across the nation. Some of those seniors have gotten acceptances through Early Decision. Some were admitted to college after February 1. By April most know which colleges have accepted their applications. Phew—a sigh of relief!
Wait a minute! Those acceptances are CONDITIONAL—no kidding!
Something happens at colleges during June and July. Admissions Offices begin to check the high school transcripts of the seniors they have accepted. They are looking at seniors’ class grades and final exam grades. Because applications are due in November, senior grades are not considered for an acceptance, but that does not mean senior classes and senior performance don’t count. If grades have nose-dived, at many colleges acceptances are—not may be—REVOKED. Yes, even if you have made a deposit. Students often do not believe this happens, but as much as 2% of incoming classes are dumped for this reason – senior slump. Those on the deferral list will love you.
What bad timing, too. If a college acceptance is revoked, it is after you have already rejected other acceptances you received. At this time of year there are not many openings left in four-year colleges, especially.
Is There Anything You Can Do?
If your acceptance to a college is revoked:
Ø You can appeal. Colleges will consider and forgive certain circumstances - such as sickness or family issues.
Ø You might ask to take summer courses on the campus. If you do well, your - acceptance could be delayed for a year.
Ø You may be able to acquire a probationary acceptance.
To avoid getting a revocation of a college acceptance:
Ø You can maintain a B average in your senior classes.
Ø Do not get below a C in any major classes or in a class your college required for admission.
Ø If you are having trouble in a class during your senior year, go to the teacher immediately; don’t waste time and let things slide. Ask for help and/or extra work.
Ø Let your college know if you drop a class or change your schedule during you senior year.
Ø Stay serious.
Final Thoughts
These are competitive times. The better colleges want to uphold standards. There are simply fewer second chances, less understanding, and little coddling today. Public universities are bound to admission formulas. All schools want to be fair, but with the tons of applications they have of similar quality, being fair with those who were denied is as important as being fair to those they accepted.
Please do no put yourself in a position to be receiving these words in the mail: “Your academic record no longer meets the standard for admission.”
We suggest you also check out myFootpath.com for its article about senioritis; they give a great RX plan for this disease!