![A group of students sit on the lawn on Lone Mountain.](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_768x432/public/2023-08/group-students-lm_lawn.jpg.jpeg?itok=S-kQeUkc)
College Prep Guides by USF
Whether you're just starting to think about college or you're knee-deep in applications, we've got you. Remember, the college application process is about discovering what’s right for you (and that might be different than what your friends or family think).
Check out our seven essential college prep guides below. They’re applicable to any college you’ll be applying to, not just USF. And remember, if you have any questions, your USF admission counselor is here to help. You've got this!
Get all Seven Guides
![Three students walk side by side in hallway and discuss](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_637x359/public/2022-07/03.19.19%20OMC10224%20Campaign%20Website%20Refresh%207.jpg.jpeg?itok=7sYN8zTJ)
Building Your College List
It’s time to get introspective and start thinking about your future home. Use this guide to figure out what matters to you, from campus size to location. We'll tell you how to build a balanced list of reach, target, and likely schools.
![Group of USF staff smiling and posing](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_637x359/public/2024-07/2022.08.16_12197_Staff%20and%20Counselors_VNB18965%20Full%20Horizontal%20Sweep.jpg.jpeg?itok=Yt-Bb5YW)
Your College Application Support Team
Feeling overwhelmed about college applications? Remember, you've got a whole team in your corner. We’ll share exactly who you can turn to for help, plus the right questions to ask them.
![Graduate leaps in the air with joy at commencement](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_637x359/public/migrated/images/campus_life/05.17.19-commencement-2019-5.jpg.jpeg?itok=n5uW7VM9)
Scholarships 101
Let’s help you get free money for college. We'll walk you through the basics of scholarships, whether they’re from the colleges themselves or outside organizations. Learn where to find them, how to apply, and how to avoid scams.
Available September 18
![USF Students](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_637x359/public/2022-07/GEN_LIFE_2014_students-on-LM-front-entrance-stairs_Babuljak-03230.jpg.jpeg?itok=QGHqCBUr)
Financial Aid 101
Get an overview of the different types of aid that are available to you, and how you can apply. Don’t leave money on the table by assuming you’re ineligible!
Available October 2
![Lone Mountain](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_637x359/public/2024-08/24717-SEM-Campus-Photography-DJI_0352.jpg.jpeg?itok=a1M-elY3)
What Colleges Look For
There are many parts of a college application. Get our guide to see what colleges are looking for in each part.
Available October 16
![Father Fitzgerald posing with students](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_637x359/public/2024-07/24.3.21-DEV-DOTD-_UL_7971.jpg.jpeg?itok=LV758-Ec)
Sophomore Year Guide
In your sophomore year, you have to balance enjoying high school with naturally building a strong foundation for your college apps. See what you should focus on this year.
Available October 23
![Two USF students walking on campus together](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_637x359/public/2024-07/_UL_4105.jpg.jpeg?itok=Is0AkIp3)
Junior Year Guide
We'll help you navigate this crucial year, from keeping those grades strong to starting your college search without letting it take over your life. See what to focus on in your junior year.
Available October 23
Take the Next Step
Go straight to the USF application or sign up to visit us in San Francisco.
Office of Undergraduate Admission
2800 Turk Blvd.
San Francisco, CA 94118
Monday - Friday:
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Fax (415) 422-2217