The College & Career Center is open to all students interested in preparing for life after high school. Whether you have plans to attend college, trade school, military, go straight into the workforce, or aren't quite sure, this space is for you! To schedule an appointment, please complete the Google Form.
Sign up to receive reminder texts about events in the CCC including college rep visits, workshops, and more!
Text 81010 with code: @sshsccc
Common Application
Opens August 1 and closes depending on your individual colleges - please keep track of deadlines!
Used for over 1,300 schools to replace individual applications
Sections include: Profile, family, education, testing, activities, and writing - personal essay (required) & supplemental essays (depends on college), grades & courses
Most common applications require letters of recommendations from teachers and a counselor, although some allow outside recommendations, as well (i.e. community members, employers, etc.)
Application Fees vary by school
Must be matched with Naviance for teacher letters of recommendation and transcript
UC Application
Open August 1 and closes December 2
Requires major selection, self-reported grades and test scores (NOT including ACT/SAT), activities and awards, scholarship options, and personal insight questions (PIQs)
Does NOT require transcripts or letters of recommendation
$80 application fee per campus - fee waivers available up to 4 campuses based on information in application "About Me" section
Cal State Apply
Opens October 1 and closes December 2
Sections include: personal information, academic history, supporting information, and program materials (questions or materials required for specific programs)
Does NOT require transcripts or letters of recommendation
$70 application fee per campus - fee waivers available based on information provided in application
CSU Campus Match - find the campus that has what YOU want
Scholarship Resources
Local & National Scholarships: posted to Scholarship Bulletin updated weekly
Out of State Tuition Assistance: WUE
Current Local Scholarships
- The Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) provides numerous scholarship opportunities available only to Ventura County seniors. Deadline: January 15, 2025
- Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program offers college scholarships of up to $40,000 for high school seniors nationwide who showcase leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship. Deadline: January 3, 2025
Upcoming Local Scholarships
- The Universal Scholarship provides numerous local scholarships available to SVUSD seniors - it opens February 2025 & closes April 2025
- 2023-2024 Copy for reference - available scholarships subject to change from year to year due to funding
- Fun Fact: Join PTSA by junior year to be eligible for many of the scholarships included
Career Education
- The Ventura County Community College District offers various comprehensive career education programs at Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura campuses. These programs include but are not limited to Fire Science, Radiology, Nursing, EMT, Architecture, and more! Explore industry sectors here.
- Looking to attend a trade/vocational school after graduation? Check here for resources and information from the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County.
- Don't forget to check out the Simi Institute for Careers and Education (SICE) right here in Simi Valley!
College 101
- College Information Overview
- How to Apply to College
- Testing Information
- 9th Grade Checklist
- 10th Grade Checklist
- 11th Grade Checklist
- 12th Grade Checklist
- Parent Workshops
- Sample Questions for College Reps
- Guide to International Colleges
- College Tour Hub
- Talk to your counselor about taking college classes as a high school student through Dual Enrollment.
Financial Aid
- CalKids - Check if you are eligible for money
- Financial Aid Applications Available December 1st
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- California Dream Act Application (CADAA)
- Financial Aid Checklist
- Financial Aid Student/Family Resource
- Federal Student Aid Estimator
- FAFSA Parent Wizard
- What happens after you complete the FAFSA? Watch here!
- What You Need to Know about Financial Aid
Naviance Exploration
Whether you are college-bound or interested in a career right out of high school, the best way to explore options is to complete your Naviance Tasks:
Work Experience & Summer Opportunities
Work permits must be renewed at the start of each school year or at the the time a student obtains a new job. Current Work Permits are contingent upon grades and attendance from Spring 2024. For current updates on employment opportunities, follow @sshs_counseling on Instagram.