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Welcome to the new GC website!

The new district and school websites, powered by ParentSquare’s Smart Sites, feature improved navigation, a streamlined layout consistent across all sites, and a user-friendly design to better serve our entire community. They also seamlessly integrate with ParentSquare, the district’s communication platform.

Although the new website has a redesigned look, most of the website components and menus are the same!

2 days ago

Gates Chili High School

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  2. Counseling and Student Support Services
  3. College application process

College application process

College application process

Applying to college is an exciting milestone, and the Gates Chili High School Counseling Department is here to support you every step of the way! Below is a general timeline and checklist to help guide you through the college application process.

  • Take the SAT or ACT in the spring of your junior year, if required by your intended colleges or for scholarship consideration. Not all schools require standardized test scores—check the admissions requirements for each college you’re applying to. Learn more on the College Entrance Exam webpage.

  • Ask teachers for letters of recommendation in the spring of junior year so they have time to write a strong letter. Use Naviance to submit requests and provide helpful information about your academic and extracurricular achievements.

  • Start writing your college essay(s) during the summer before senior year. Your counselor or English teacher can help review and refine your drafts.

    • Complete your brag sheet in SchooLinks to help teachers write recommendations
    • Add colleges you’re applying to under "Colleges I’m Applying To"
    • Track application materials and submission deadlines

  • Submit your applications using one of the following platforms:

    Make sure you know the deadlines for each college you apply to.

  • To ensure your counselor can send transcripts and supporting documents:

    • Submit your Gold Form (with parent/guardian signature) once at the start of senior year
    • Submit a Green Form every time you apply to a college
      📌 These forms must be turned in at least 10 school days before your college's deadline.

  • The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required to apply for federal and some state and college-based financial aid. Visit the Federal Aid website to complete your application.