After graduation, 76% of our Class of 2024 students had plans to continue their education by attending college or post-secondary schools. Most of our 2024 graduates, or 86%, planned to attend college in Georgia. While your student may be a kindergartener and has years of learning and growing ahead of them, a ninth grader in high school, or even a senior who will graduate this spring, we want to be sure you are aware of the many resources provided by Gwinnett County Public Schools to support you and your child with tips you can use now as your student is planning for their post-high school pursuits.

1. Research Postsecondary Options for the best fit for your student.

• Types of Institutions: Understand the differences between community colleges, four-year universities, trade schools, and online programs. 
   
  1. Community Colleges: Offer two-year programs and can be a cost-effective way to complete general education requirements or vocational training.
  • Find information about Georgia Community Colleges
     
  2. Four-Year Universities: Provide bachelor's degrees and often have diverse program options, including majors and minors.
  • Compare Georgia institutions through the University System of Georgia.
     
  3. Trade Schools: Focus on specific skills and certifications in fields including plumbing, culinary arts, or graphic design.
  • Learn about Georgia’s Technical Colleges.
     
  4. Online Programs: Offer flexibility and can be ideal if you need to balance work and study.  (Reach out to Kimberly Geer for a recommended online resource here) 

A tip from CollegeReady: Don’t make the mistake of waiting until senior year to begin thinking about the future. Especially if you are considering pursuing post-secondary education!

2. Explore Financial Considerations to determine postsecondary costs. 
   There are many expenses involved with postsecondary studies. Researching the costs will help with the decision-making process.

• Tuition and Fees: Compare the costs of different programs and institutions.
   
• Scholarships, Grants and Loans: Research available financial aid options. Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships based on merit, need, or specific criteria.
  • Find scholarships through the Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation Fund.
  • Enter to win one of College Board’s BigFuture Scholarships.
  • Complete your FAFSA Application.
  • Prepare for college in Georgia by completing the Georgia Student Finance Application (GSFAPP).
  • Get resources and helpful information about student aid, scholarships, college planning, career exploration, and more at GAfutures.
     
• Work-Study Programs: Some institutions offer students opportunities to work part-time while studying.
   

3. Gain Experience

• Internships and Volunteering: Engage in internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work related to your areas of interest. This provides practical experience and helps build a professional network.
   
• Job Shadowing: Spend time observing professionals in your fields of interest to understand their daily responsibilities.
   

4. Visit Campuses and Talk to Current Students

• Campus Visits: Visit campuses to get a feel for the environment and facilities.
   
• Student Interviews: Speak with current students or alumni to gain insights into their experiences and the realities of the program. 
   

5. Consult with Advisors and Mentors

• Academic Advisors: They can provide guidance on course selections and program requirements.
   
• Career Counselors: Offer advice on career paths, job markets, and how to align educational choices with career goals.
   
• Mentors: Seek guidance from professionals in your fields of interest for real-world advice and networking opportunities.
   

6. Create a Plan and Set Goals.
   Talk with your student to better understand their interests and set goals together.

• Short-Term Goals: Develop a timeline for application deadlines, required exams (like SAT/ACT), and document preparation.
  • Register for the ACT.
  • Get free practice resources for the SAT.
  • Register for the SAT.