University Advising
The University Preparation Programme at Cedar is designed to support students through all facets of university planning, application and readiness. It encompasses a weekly class for grades 9-12 as well as office hours for students to meet with the College Counselor for individualised advising regarding the academic path that they want to pursue post-Cedar. The programme teaches students how to strengthen their candidacy for university degree programmes and provides resources to increase students’ competitiveness for admission.
The course objectives include:
- Learning what universities are looking for from applicants and what universities value
- Learning what factors are a part of university admissions decisions
- Skills, strengths and learning style assessments
- Career exploration
- Personal statement writing
- Standardised test preparation
- Navigating financial aid and student visa requirements
There is also a focus on International Baccalaureate recognition policies at universities around the world as they relate to scholarship opportunities and course credit for students who matriculate through the IB diploma programme.
Illustrated above are some of the Universities and Colleges which have recently made offers to Cedar’s Graduates.
Course projects include:
- Developing university selection factors and criteria
- Fact-find about university selection via university websites and written literature
- Actively engage in the college search and match process, using country-specific guides and application portals, as well as online resources including Maclean’s, College Board, Council of International Schools, Carnegie and Peterson’s.
- Understanding admissions requirements for universities and degree programmes.
The College Advisor works with families and students to fine-tune each student’s university search and prepare a university application list that fits within a structured framework of 4-6 universities that are viable options for families.
There is also a university tour offered every spring for students to gain first hand knowledge about student and campus life, take campus tours, sit in classes and meet admissions officials and current students.
As students complete their applications, time is also spent discussing factors for university readiness and building skills that are crucial for university and career success. Some skills the class confronts are:
- Self-advocacy
- Mindfulness and empathy
- Financial literacy
- Resume writing
- Effective communication
- 21st century learning skills
Cedar International School is a member of the International Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC) whose mission is ‘To facilitate global interaction among counselors and institutions in support of secondary students transitioning to higher education while promoting professional standards that fosters ethical and social responsibility.’
You may download the Cedar International School Profile here.