College Knowledge Month
College preparation and application activities in October
What is College Knowledge Month?
The goal of College Knowledge Month's is to provide every graduating high school senior with the preparation, opportunity, and support needed to apply to college. This month-long effort each October allows students to do more than just submit a college application. Within this time frame, students can participate in the college exploration and planning process at their own pace -- and schools can align this initiative with the many college exploration activities that are already taking place during the fall. Many postsecondary institutions waive application fees during College Knowledge Month.
Students and schools share their College Knowledge Month stories on social media by using the hashtags: #MNGoesToCollege #IAppliedMN
Visit the College Applications page for annual summaries about College Knowledge Month events.
Who can participate?
All Minnesota schools can participate in College Knowledge Month. Schools interested in participating must devote time and space during the school day for college exploration activities for their students. Schools serving 12th grade students must include time and support for seniors to complete college applications during the month. Sites can participate at any point during the month of October. College access programs that work within districts or charter schools can also participate! This includes College Possible, TRiO programs, Get Ready, AVID, etc.
Postsecondary admissions volunteers often assist schools with these events by presenting on various topics or working with seniors on college applications.
What support is provided to sites?
Visit the Site Support page to find out all the ways in which Minnesota Goes to College supports site coordinators and host sites with their events.
College Knowledge Month is also supported by the American College Application Campaign (ACAC), which is the national effort to increase the number of first-generation college students and students from low-income families pursuing a college degree or other higher education credential.
What are some college planning resources for students and families?
Make sure to also visit our FAFSA Events page for financial aid resources.
Worksheets and handouts:
High School Planning Checklists - One page checklists for grades 9-12 to prepare for college.
How to Make your College List - A guide to researching colleges and making your college list. Use the Make your List Template to fill in your college preferences and find the best fit for you.
How to Write an Application Essay - Includes helpful tips and sample prompts for college and scholarship application essays.
College Planning Workbook - This complete workbook was created in Google Sheets so it is easy for you to gather and organize all the information you will need to submit your college and scholarship applications. Available in Spanish.
FSA ID Worksheet - Here is a helpful worksheet to help remember FSA ID information. Students and families will need to set up an FSA ID to complete the FAFSA.
Minnesota campus information:
College Fairs - when and where Minnesota and national college fairs are held.
Minnesota State Colleges and University System - Find out how to visit any of Minnesota State's 33 campuses, explore majors and the application process. Connect with someone at the Call Center who is ready to answer questions about any Minnesota State campus. Skype, live chat, send an email or give them a call to get answers.
Minnesota Private Colleges - Get information on application deadlines, admissions requirements, and campus visits.
Free publications:
Choosing a College - This booklet describes the methods a student can use to find their best fit college in Minnesota. Also available in Spanish, Somali, Hmong.