4-YEAR PLAN
Your high school journey will fly by faster than you can imagine. Embrace every moment, challenge yourself, and discover who you are.
On this page, we dive deep into all those elements that go into a college application. There are a lot of moving parts, but this information and your counselors will help you along the way.
And regularly visit your HonuHub dashboard where events and opportunities are posted as they happen throughout the year.
YOUR TIME STARTS NOW
Your journey starts at the end of Grade 8. As a Rising Freshman, you will have the opportunity to meet with your HTA counselor and advisors. They will discuss your future plans and help you plan out your courses to meet your goals. Be sure to attend so you can start outlining your journey. Students new to HTA will have this meeting during the summer. We revisit your plan at the end of each year, adjusting and exploring as you go.
HTA HIGH SCHOOL COURSE CATALOG
HEADING FOR A CALIFORNIA SCHOOL?
If a California college might be on your horizon, be aware of the state’s A-G requirements. These are a set of academic courses that you must complete to be eligible for admission to Cali public universities. The aim is to ensure that students have a solid foundation in core subjects.
The A-G requirements include:
• History/Social Studies: 2 years (including American history and civics)
• English: 4 years
• Mathematics: 3 years (including algebra I and geometry)
• Science: 3 years (including biology, chemistry, or physics)
• Foreign Language: 2 years of the same language
• Visual Arts: 1 year
• College Preparatory Elective: 1 year (can be fulfilled by any A-G subject)
These are minimum requirements, and some universities may have additional prerequisites or recommendations. Additionally, while the A-G requirements are specifically for California public universities, they are often used as a benchmark for college admissions across the United States.
THINKING ABOUT STUDYING ABROAD?
Other countries have different admission requirements, so do your research. UK universities, for example, require AP classes in place of A levels on your transcript.
COLLEGE SPORTS ON YOUR RADAR?
Freshmen, line up your goals if you’re interested in playing a sport in college at a Division I, II or III school.
NCAA eligibility requires all interested students to set up an account and meet the academic standards required to play in college. Failure to meet these requirement by the first semester of your senior year may lead to being redshirted during your first year.
View the registration checklist to see what profile type is right for you.
Read about the division requirements and plan out your four years so you meet division academic standards.
BE ORGANIZED
Create an Important Document File. Fill it with your report cards, honors, awards, community service activities, a list of potential references. Add in handouts and other information you receive from colleges. Use a calendar to track college and career events and deadlines. Check out our counselors’ tips for acing high school. And check your email.
TESTING ...
High school tests provide colleges with a standardized assessment of your academic abilities alongside your GPA and extracurricular involvement. Following a hiatus during the pandemic, colleges are increasingly returning to requiring test scores, so it’s good to have these under your belt.
Trying to make sense of the test alphabet soup? Scroll down for the tests you may come across — and what all those letters mean.
The SAT and ACT are the two tests most commonly requested by colleges; we recommend taking both, but this article may help you decide what is best for you. HTA provides the ACT to all juniors free of charge in the spring semester.
From a content perspective, you should be ready to take either of these tests in the spring of your junior year and/or after completing algebra 2 and geometry. Seniors, please note, if the colleges you are applying to require test scores, you should sit the tests by October for early decision applications, or by November for regular decision applications.
SAT: check testing dates and register here
ACT: check testing dates and register
HTA SCHOOL CODE: 120246
You will need this code when registering for the tests.
The SAT assesses your reading, writing, and math skills. From a content perspective, you should be ready to take this in the spring of your junior year. You sign up and pay for the SAT independently with the College Board. See your counselor if you need financial support for SAT fees.
HTA students take the ACT in the spring of their junior year. There is no charge when you sit the test at HTA. If you want to do a retake or repeat in your junior/senior years, you need to sign up and pay independently. Unlike the SAT, the ACT includes science.
PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test): This is a practice version of the SAT that also qualifies high scorers for National Merit Scholarships. While not directly required for college admissions, it can boost your application and scholarship potential. HTA provides this test to all HTA students in Grades 10 and 11 in October. The test is optional and is taken on a Monday. There is a small registration fee — if you take the test independently of HTA, it costs $70. Your scores will help you determine which areas you can focus on before you take the ACT or SAT. Watch your email and your HonuHub dashboard for sign-up information.
When you take AP classes (they are mostly online and self-paced), you can also sit the corresponding college-level exam. Earning high scores may grant you college credit or advanced placement in college courses. You sign up and pay for these tests independently. See your HTA counselor for information.
The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a free multiple-choice test that helps you identify which military occupational specialties would be best for you. HTA makes this available twice a year (fall and spring) for students in grades 10-12.
Watch your HonuHub dashboard for sign-up information to take the test on our Waipahu and Kaua‘i campuses or talk to your counselor.
WHAT IS SUPERSCORING?
Superscoring is a method some colleges use to evaluate standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT. If you take the test more than once, it allows colleges to take the highest score you achieved in each section across all test dates. This can be beneficial for students who have inconsistent test scores as it gives them a chance to showcase their best performance. Not all colleges superscore, so check the policies of those you’re applying to.
DID YOU KNOW?
Your test scores are good for five years.
STUDY RESOURCES
HTA offers several opportunities for you to boost your transcript, stretch your academic wings, and get a head start on college.
DUAL-CREDIT
Running Start & Early College
Our dual-credit program allows eligible HTA students to take a college course through a University of Hawai‘i campus. This allows you to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously, saving time and money.
Dual-credit courses allow you to explore your academic interests and get a taste of college life, plus they look great on your transcript for college admissions.
Dual-credit courses are available to eligible HTA students in Grades 11 and 12. Students in Grade 10 may be eligible to enroll with director and counselor approval.
Your counselor will provide all application details during the fall and spring sign-up periods. This will include dates, course costs, and the paperwork and steps needed to apply. Also watch your HonuHub dashboard for application reminders.
RUNNING START
Available through all HTA high school campuses. You attend your dual-credit classes on the UH campus with which you enroll.
EARLY COLLEGE
Available on our Waipahu campus only. A LCC professor comes to Waipahu to teach. These course offerings vary by semester.
Staying afloat in dual-credit classes
For our students taking dual-credit classes with the University of Hawai‘i, we wish you an enjoyable and enriching semester — and some notes for success:
Check your STAR account to be sure you are signed up for the right courses and have paid for tuition and textbooks.
Check your hawaii.edu email regularly.
Also check your Lamakū account — this is where you will find your coursework and class info. And read the syllabus; it’s good to know where you are going and what to expect.
Know where to find help. Make sure you know how to get in touch with your instructors and what their office hours are.
Remember, this is college: when assignments are due, they are due!
Don’t fall behind — HTA is not monitoring your progress. Do reach out to your instructors if you need help. Second stop for support is your HTA counselor. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
HTA RUNNING START SCHOLARSHIP
HTA is proud to help our students get a running start by helping to pay for these college classes. The scholarship is a one-time reimbursement of $200. Details are available during course sign-up.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CLASSES
While most of our students take Running Start/Early College, AP classes are another option. If you plan to attend college or university in another country, you may actually be required to have AP classes on your transcript.
Most of our AP classes are offered through the Department of Education’s Hawai‘i Online Courses — you should be aware that they are online and self-paced; there is minimal interaction with the teacher.
At the end of the course, you can pay and register to sit the AP exam; please note that the class will typically only be considered for college credit if you score a top 5.
Talk to your HTA counselor about your options and how to register if you decide AP is right for you.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
This is a service organization made up of inducted students from across all of our campuses. Anyone who meets the scholarship criteria will be invited to apply. The application starts at the end of January. Applicants are evaluated on leadership, service, and character. NHS students enjoy team-building and leadership opportunities during the school year and engage in service activities.
For more information contact Andrew Marchetto-Ryan at amarchettoryan@myhta.org.
HTA STUDENTS ARE EXTRA
Extracurricular activities can be a significant boost to your college applications. They demonstrate your interests, passions, and commitment beyond academics. Colleges value well-rounded students who actively participate in clubs, sports, or community service. Extracurriculars can also provide opportunities to develop leadership skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities … these will all stand you in good stead in life.
HTA’s blended model means our students have the unique opportunity to explore and really dig deep into their individual interests. We have students who are athletic standouts, chess bosses, tech wizards, SCUBA divers … our students really are amazing.
Take advantage of HTA’s Career-Based Learning program and community service opportunities. You can explore careers, gain skills, and earn credit at the same time.
Get into Club Rush: sign up at the start of the fall and spring semesters. Consider starting your own club — ask a teacher to be your club advisor; you will need at least six students to join you.
Interested in participating in science fair or history day? Talk to your counselor or teachers.
While HTA does not offer high school teams, you can participate with the public school in your geographic area. HTA’s Athletic Director emails the procedures at the start of each semester.
A COLLEGE
Finding the right college is a bit like planning the perfect hike — you want to research the trail, check the conditions, and make sure it matches your pace and goals before committing.
Take advantage of virtual tours and visit campuses in person whenever you can. Walking the grounds, sitting in on a class, or grabbing lunch on campus can tell you more about the vibe than any brochure. Talking with current students also gives you a real sense if a school matches your academic and social goals.
HTA hosts college reps throughout the year, both in-person and virtually, so you can learn directly from the source. These sessions cover what makes each school unique — their academic strengths and majors, student life, financial aid options, and campus demographics. Start attending these sessions during your junior year so you have a solid list of schools in mind by the time senior year application season rolls around. Watch your HonuHub dashboard for events.
We generally recommend making a list of six to 10 colleges, but this will vary with your individual goals and circumstances. If you are applying to highly selective schools, your list may be longer. If you know you definitely want to attend the University of Hawai‘i, your list may be shorter. One great strategy is to go for reach, match, and safety.
REACH
Reach schools are colleges where your chances of admission are lower, but you’re still interested in applying. These are often highly selective institutions with low acceptance rates. It’s okay to dream big!
MATCH
Match schools are colleges where your academic profile aligns well with the school’s average admitted student. Your chances of admission are moderate, making them solid options.
SAFETY
Safety schools are colleges where you’re highly likely to be accepted based on your academic qualifications. These schools provide a backup plan and reduce application stress.
To determine if a college is a reach, match, or safety, compare your academic profile to the college’s admissions data for a general guide. Look on their websites for their average GPA, standardized test scores, and acceptance rates of admitted students. Don’t forget that other factors such as extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation can also come into play.
(Among other things)
this site helps you compare your profile to colleges
HOW TO DECIDE?
SELF-REFLECT
Academic interests: Consider your passions and the majors or programs offered at different schools.
Campus culture: Think about the size, atmosphere, and location that would be a good fit for you.
Extracurricular activities: Evaluate the opportunities available at each college to pursue your interests outside the classroom.
RESEARCH
Visit campuses: If possible, visit the campuses to get a feel for the environment and talk to current students.
Online research: Explore college websites, read college guides, and check out online forums for student reviews. Many campuses also offer virtual tours.
Talk to counselors: Seek advice from your HTA counselors.
LOGISTICS
Location: Do you prefer to stay close to home or move to a different state or region?
Cost: Research tuition, fees, and living expenses to determine affordability.
Financial aid: Explore the financial aid options available at each college; be aware that some schools strive to be affordable for your family — ask your HTA counselor about colleges that apply 100 percent demonstrated need.
Acceptance rates: Consider the competitiveness of each school and your chances of admission.
PRIORITIZE
Rank the colleges based on your preferences and how well they align with your goals.
SAY WOO-EE
The Western Undergraduate Exchange — commonly called WUE — is a network of colleges and universities across the western United States that offers discounted tuition to eligible resident students from participating states. This means that Hawai‘i high school students who meet WUE eligibility requirements can pay a lower tuition rate, making it more affordable to attend college out of state.
FLY IN
Many colleges offer fly-in programs — all-expenses-paid campus visits that go beyond the typical tour. These programs often include overnight stays, class visits, and opportunities to connect with students and faculty. They’re typically designed for first-generation, underrepresented, or low-income students who may not otherwise be able to visit campus.
Fly-in programs are competitive and require an application, with deadlines usually in late summer/early fall. Check each college’s website for details.
Questions?
Contact your HTA campus counselor.
UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I
The University of Hawai‘i system includes three universities and seven community colleges and community-based learning centers across the islands. As a Hawai‘i resident, there are some unique advantages to attending a UH campus.
AFFORDABILITY
– UH campuses generally offer lower tuition rates for Hawai‘i residents compared to out-of-state public universities or private institutions.
– UH offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, to help you manage college costs.
ACCESSIBILITY
– Save time and money on travel expenses.
– You are in a familiar and comfortable setting.
QUALITY EDUCATION
– UH-Mānoa, the flagship campus, consistently ranks among the top public universities in the nation.
– Campuses offer a wide range of academic programs and degrees, from arts and sciences to engineering and business.
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
– UH campuses celebrate Hawaiian culture and offer opportunities to learn about and participate in local traditions.
– Diverse student body: You’ll have the chance to interact with students from various backgrounds and perspectives.
FREE APPLICATION
– UH campuses typically do not charge an application fee for Hawai‘i residents.
THE COMMUNITY COLLEGES
Community colleges are often more affordable than four-year universities, with smaller class sizes that allow for personalized attention. Additionally, community colleges offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate students’ busy lives. Many community colleges have transfer agreements with four-year universities, making it easier to continue your education and earn a bachelor’s degree. They also provide vocational and technical programs that can lead to immediate employment.
We encourage you to start applying early — there are many components to a college application and it’s good to get your foot in the door as soon as possible. We recommend using both Scoir and the Common App as they are the most widely accepted. Some institutions have their own proprietary application systems, so please check the specific requirements of each college you’re interested in.
SCOIR
Take advantage of your HTA Scoir account — it helps with your college applications, allowing participating colleges to see your resume; academic, personal, and career interests; as well as your self-reported GPA, awards or recognitions. They can also find you — and be impressed — and reach out.
ACCESS SCOIR THROUGH CLEVER IN YOUR HONUHUB DASHBOARD
THE COMMON APP
The other widely used college application platform is the Common App. Accepted by hundreds of colleges and universities, it includes your personal information, academic records, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. By completing one application, you can apply to multiple schools that participate in the Common App program.
The platform includes other resources including college research, financial aid information, and advice from other students. You can also check here to see if you are eligible for a fee waiver.
Create your Common App account starting Aug. 1
APPLICATION FEES
College application fees can vary between $65 to $120. If these fees are a hardship for your family, please reach out to your counselor as there are situations in which they can be waived.
Check out this annual list of the best colleges with zero application fee.
EARLY ACTION / EARLY DECISION
VS REGULAR DECISION
These are different plans — and timelines — for college applications.
REGULAR
DECISION
Deadlines typically in January. Non-binding; you can apply to as many schools as you want and have until May 1 to make your final decision.
ROLLING
DECISION
Colleges review applications as they arrive and accept students until the program is full. This is an ongoing process spanning from fall through summer.
STANDARD EARLY ACTION
Deadlines are typically October to December. Non-binding; you can apply to multiple schools, and colleges must hold your acceptance offer until May 1 while you compare options.
EARLY
DECISION
Deadlines are typically early October to early December. Binding; if accepted, you must enroll and immediately withdraw all other college applications.
WHY CHOSE EARLY ACTION/EARLY DECISION?
• Because you are confident about your college choices.
• Many colleges have higher acceptance rates for early applicants.
• Potentially more opportunities for financial aid and/or scholarships.
• Knowing your college plans earlier can alleviate some of the college application stress.
• You can start planning for your college experience sooner; including securing housing.
• Applying early can signal to the college that you are genuinely interested in attending.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
These letters offer admissions officers valuable insights into your character, academic abilities, and potential for success beyond what can be captured in test scores and grades. These letters should come from individuals who know you well, such as teachers, counselors, or extracurricular advisors. While not all colleges require letters of recommendation, they are often highly recommended as they provide a unique perspective on your qualifications.
Ask now!
It’s best to request letters from your recommenders at least one month before your earliest deadline. You can help them by sharing your Scoir brag sheet and/or resumé.
FERPA waiver
The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives students the right to view confidential letters of recommendation under certain circumstances. College applications will ask if you would like to waive this right. Waiving it lets colleges know that you do not intend to read your letters, which helps reassure them that the letters are truthful.
Application recommender information
When filling out applications online, you will need to input information for each of your recommenders, such as name, title, and email address. Ask your recommender if they are willing to write a letter for you before you submit their information. Also let them know what schools you are applying to.
Digital or hard copy?
An email will then be sent to your recommenders inviting them to submit their letter online. If the college or scholarship requires a mailed hard copy, be sure to provide your recommenders with stamped, addressed envelopes and any necessary forms.
Almost done …
Check in with your recommenders well before the due date and ask if they need any additional information.
And don’t forget to say thank you!
THE COLLEGE ESSAY
The college essay is your opportunity to showcase your personality, experiences, and goals beyond grades and test scores. While not universally required, it’s often a crucial component of college applications. A well-crafted essay can help you stand out from other applicants by providing insights into your character, values, and how you might contribute to the college community.
Our HTA College & Career counselors will be on-hand in the fall during a Momentum Lab Monday to help with your college essays and other elements of the college application process. Details will be posted in your HonuHub dashboard. Be sure to take advantage of this help.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED
Choose a topic that matters
Personal significance: Select a topic that has personal meaning or relevance to your life. Be authentic.
Relevance to the college: Consider how your topic connects to the school’s values or programs.
Develop a strong thesis
Central idea: Clearly state the main point or message you want to convey.
Supporting evidence: Outline the key examples or anecdotes that will illustrate your thesis.
Show, don’t tell
Vivid imagery: Use descriptive language to paint a picture in the reader’s mind.
Anecdotes: Share personal stories that illustrate your points.
Dialogue: Use conversations to bring your essay to life.
Structure your essay
Introduction: Grab the reader’s attention with a strong opening hook and clearly state your thesis.
Body paragraphs: Develop your main points, providing evidence and analysis.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression.
Proofread carefully
Grammar and spelling: Ensure your essay is free of errors.
Clarity and coherence: Make sure your ideas flow logically and are easy to understand.
Revise and edit: Don’t be afraid to make changes to improve your essay.
Get feedback: Ask teachers, counselors, or peers to review your essay.
Here’s a good online resource
SUBMITTING YOUR ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT
The college application process requires two different types of transcripts: the official transcript (for admission review) and the final transcript (for enrollment).
Requesting your official transcript for application review
During the college application process (via platforms like Scoir, Common App, or direct school portals), you will be prompted to submit your transcript.
• If you are using an application management system (like Scoir or Common App), you will list your HTA College & Career counselor. They will receive an email prompting them to upload your official transcript directly into the platform.
• If the college requires the transcript to be sent via email, you must contact your HTA College & Career counselor and request them to submit your official transcript to the college’s designated email address. Include the college name and the specific transcript email address in your request.
• In some cases, colleges will allow you to upload your unofficial transcript yourself.
The final transcript process after acceptance
The submission of your final transcript is a mandatory and separate step that confirms your enrollment and graduation status. Once you have received your acceptance letter and committed to a school, you must complete this final step to verify that you successfully completed all graduation requirements and note your official graduation date. Your enrollment is not official until the college receives and processes this document.
HTA will send you a final transcript request form at the end of May.
SHOULD YOU DO AN APPLICATION INTERVIEW?
Application interviews are a common part of the admissions process for many colleges and universities. They offer you the opportunity to showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and knowledge about the school in a way that can’t be captured in your written application.
The interview is mandatory for some colleges and optional for others. In the latter situation, choosing to do the interview definitely demonstrates your interest in the school. These interviews may be in-person, virtual, or via phone.
HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO PREPARE FOR AN INTERVIEW
Preparation is key
Research the college and its programs thoroughly. Be prepared to discuss your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and reasons for wanting to attend the school.
Practice common questions
Familiarize yourself with common interview questions, such as “Why do you want to attend this college?” and “Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.”
Dress appropriately
Dress professionally and neatly, even if the interview is virtual.
Be yourself
Authenticity is important. Let your personality shine through in your responses.
Ask questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the college, its programs, and student life to show your interest.
RESOURCES
INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS — FREE
Schoolhouse hosts free online workshops on everything from college essays, to applications and financial aid. This one-on-one support will help you understand the process and stay on track.
BIG FUTURE BY COLLEGE BOARD — FREE
Big Future is an online platform that helps students explore colleges, plan for admissions, and search for scholarships.
COMMON APP COLLEGE SPREADSHEET
This spreadsheet lists colleges nationwide that accept the Common App. It includes handy info such as application deadlines, fees, and test policies.
It’s also searchable — Use “Command f” on a Mac; “Control f” for Chromebooks and other laptops.
COLLEGE GUIDANCE NETWORK — PAID SERVICE
The College Guidance Network offers on-demand videos from top admissions experts, step-by-step planning tools and roadmap, and bi-weekly live Q&A office hours with a college admissions expert. There is a 14-day free trial, followed by a monthly or annual fee.
U.S. college costs vary widely based on the type of institution (public, private, or community college), location, and whether you live on or off campus. Expect to pay tens of thousands of dollars per year for tuition, fees, room, board, and living expenses. Explore the estimated cost of attendance sections on college websites. Students often rely on a combination of financial aid, scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. It’s important to explore all available options and create a realistic budget to manage college expenses effectively.
FAFSA
DEADLINES TO KNOW ABOUT
Federal deadline
This is the last possible date to submit the form for federal aid. It’s typically about a year after the form opens.
State deadlines
Many states have their own deadlines, which are often much earlier than the federal deadline. You must meet your state’s deadline to be considered for any state-specific grants.
College-specific deadlines
Each college you apply to may have its own deadline. These can vary and are often the earliest deadlines you need to worry about.
The FAFSA form typically opens on Oct. 1
THE CSS PROFILE
The College Scholarship Service Profile is a financial aid application used by many colleges, universities, and scholarship programs. It is administered by the College Board, the same organization that administers the SAT and PSAT.
Colleges and universities use this information to assess a student’s eligibility for various types of financial aid, including institutional scholarships, grants, work-study programs, or loans.
The CSS Profile collects more detailed financial information than the government FAFSA, including information about your family’s assets, savings, and investments. It uses a different methodology to determine your financial need, which may consider factors that the FAFSA does not.
There is a fee, but it may be waived for students from low-income families.
If you’re applying to colleges that require the CSS Profile, you’ll need to submit it in addition to the FAFSA. Start the application early, as it can take time to gather all the necessary information.
The CSS profile opens in October
Scholarship season is typically mid-October through March. Use our scholarship and financial aid toolkit to find local and national scholarships, including dates and application links.
Here’s a great local resource offering free scholarship and FAFSA workshops, college search help, resume and interview resources, and more.
SCHOLARSHIPS
It is worth it to seek out scholarships! There is a diverse range of scholarships to help Hawai‘i students pursue college education. These scholarships can be based on academic achievement, financial need, extracurricular involvement, or specific areas of study. Some scholarships are statewide, while others are offered by individual colleges or organizations. There are scholarships for students from all backgrounds, including those from low-income families, first-generation college students, and students with specific talents or interests. Research and apply for as many scholarships as possible to maximize your financial aid opportunities.
STRATEGY
Start local: you have a higher chance of success with scholarships specifically aimed at Hawai‘i students. After you have searched local and community scholarships, widen your field to state-level, then regional, then national opportunities. Scholarships are primarily aimed at high school seniors but you may find some opportunities for juniors.
Start early: you can search opportunities before the application windows open.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
Each scholarship has its own application requirements, but you can commonly expect to provide your transcripts (official or unofficial), and FAFSA or the CSS Profile.
There may be cases where you will also be asked to submit additional documents, such as letters of recommendation or a personal essay.
DID YOU KNOW?
Some scholarships come directly to you and some go to the college and become part of their financial aid offer.
