what is college readiness?
College readiness refers to the set of skills, knowledge, and behaviors a high school student should have upon graduation and entering their freshman year of college. It’s all about the ability to find success while studying at an institute of higher learning.
different degree options
An associate of arts or AA Degree is a two-year undergraduate degree program requiring the completion of 60 credit hours.
The associate in science (AS) degree is best suited for students that want to enter a career field after two years but want the option to transfer to a four-year college in a related field.
Valencia College’s Accelerated Skills Training programs focus on intensive, hands-on training designed to help you enter a new career field or advance your current skillset.
The bachelor's degree is an upper-level degree that offers students an opportunity to continue their education beyond the associate's level.
PROGRAMS THAT SUPPORT POSTSECONDARY READINESS
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Aims to attract, motivate, and prepare underrepresented elementary, middle, and high school students from the local area to pursue and complete a college education.
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Aims to increase post-secondary education access for high school students in Orange County Public Schools by providing a unique set of resources including mentors, scholarships, student advocacy, leadership development and opportunities for civic engagement.
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Aims to assist students in making a successful transition from high school to college and will help build leadership skills through community service and extra-curricular activities to help all students become successful in achieving their educational and career goals.
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A two-part program geared towards Jones High School students. The Pre-College Program provides students interested in attending UCF with support services to assist in application processes and connections to the campus community. The Summer Bridge Program provides accepted UCF students with a downtown residential experience, free tuition and books, peer mentoring, and service learning opportunities during their first summer term entering freshman year.
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Supporting students from Parramore and Holden Heights neighborhoods. Aimed to enhance children’s physical health and wellness. Support academic success among elementary, middle and high school children. Increase the number of youth entering – and completing – post-secondary education and keeping youth on a positive track toward social and economic success.
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An educational, non-profit organization designed to meet the complex needs of at-risk youth by providing character classes and life skills training through the public school system with the goal of empowering youth to become successful, responsible adults. ELEVATE Orlando's program incorporates K-12 education, college and career readiness, and entrepreneur support/training.
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Founded by the Gordon Family Giving Foundation and (NBA Player Aaron Gordon) Code Orlando is a STEM/Technology immersive summer camp that provides students (8th-12th grade) from underrepresented populations the opportunity to learn how technology impacts our daily lives. Camp participants have an opportunity to visit industries and organizations around central Florida that will expose them to how technology is integrated into our society.
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CREATE (center for research and education in arts, technology, and entertainment) is housed in the College of Arts & Humanities. CREATE works with students of all ages, instilling transferable skills with engaging integrated content. Our Pre-College Animation Intensive Summer Program provides a rigorous, two-week, full-day course in college-level instruction to high school students.
Orange Technical College
Since 1933, OTC has continued to grow and evolve, always focused on improving students' lives and positively impacting workforce needs here in Central Florida. Throughout our five technical college campuses, you can learn the industry skills needed to start an in-demand CAREER, attain your high school diploma, become an apprentice, learn English and even expand your current skills to make you more marketable to employers.
Valencia College
At Valencia College, you’ll get a quality education at a price you can afford. We offer the same education as a state university, only at about half the cost. And, with smaller campuses and classes, you’ll get more support along the way.
University of Central Florida
UCF gives you access to extraordinary academics, caring faculty and endless opportunities. Whether you are a freshman or a transfer student, seeking graduate studies or looking for the flexibility of online classes, UCF is dedicated to supporting personal growth while upholding academic excellence.
These are local, postsecondary options, but you can start your journey anywhere!
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These are local, postsecondary options, but you can start your journey anywhere! 〰️
what exactly is financial aid and how does it work?
grants
The federal government provides grants for students attending college or career school. Most types of grants, unlike loans, are sources of financial aid that generally do not have to be repaid.
scholarships
Scholarships are gifts. They do not need to be repaid. There are thousands of them, offered by schools, employers, individuals, private companies, nonprofits, communities, religious groups, and professional and social organizations.
Loans
A loan is money you borrow and must pay back with interest. If you apply for financial aid, you may be offered loans as part of your school’s financial aid offer.It is important to understand your repayment options so you can successfully repay your loan.
work study
The Federal Work-Study Program allows you to earn money to pay for school by working part-time. You’ll earn at least the current federal minimum wage. However, you may earn more depending on the type of work you do and the skills required for the position.
