What's Next After Graduation

Counselors meet with students throughout their three years to help them plan for what they want to do after high school:

• Sophomore Year: Sophomores meet with their counselors in groups during the first quarter. 
• Junior Year: The ASVAB, which matches aptitudes with interests, is offered. Juniors meet with their respective counselors in groups during the first semester. 
• Senior Year: Counselors continue to encourage students to use the offerings in the Counseling Center with the idea of finalizing post-graduate plans. Seniors meet with their respective counselors in groups during the first quarter. Seniors may take the ASVAB in the fall.

Our Career Pathways course listings can help students understand the courses they should take throughout high school to help prepare them for life after graduation.

Xello can help students explore post-secondary and career interests like:

• Attending a college or university
• Attending a trades school or recieve on-the-job apprenticeships
• Enlisting in the military
• Entering the workforce full-time

No one pattern of preparation will invariably meet admission requirements at all colleges. A four year comprehensive and balanced program in the major academic subjects is strongly advised and will meet most college requirements and/or recommendations.

Regent Admission Index (RAI)
Iowa high school graduates aiming for automatic admission to Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Iowa need a Regent Admission Index (RAI) score of at least 245. This score is determined based on factors such as the ACT or SAT test score, high school GPA, and the number of completed high school core courses. Learn more on the Admissions to Iowa, ISU, UNI web page.

Private Schools
Most of these schools have flexible entrance requirements but are mainly looking for students who avail themselves of the opportunity to take as many academic and enrichment courses as their abilities will permit. 

Highly Competitive Colleges/Universities
Students considering highly competitive colleges should give special attention to their selection in mathematics, social studies, science (including two of these: biology, chemistry, physics), world language, and English, including a year of composition. In addition, some schools are requiring a fine arts credit and computer competency. Highly competitive colleges will expect a student to have taken a rigorous selection of courses. For further information, please confer with your counselor.