The ACT is a standardized test used for college admissions. The test includes English, math, reading, science, and an optional writing section. Most high school students take the ACT, SAT, or both during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year.

The ACT offers fee waivers to eligible students. 

Visit College Board to learn more about the college application process.

CCAP is a public/private partnership that pays the cost of tuition for two years at Virginia Western Community College if a qualified student does not have sufficient financial aid to pay tuition costs. 

Visit CCAP's website to learn more, attend an information session, and apply.

Students who graduate from one of Virginia’s 23 community colleges with an associate degree and a minimum grade point average may obtain GUARANTEED admission to more than 30 of Virginia's colleges and universities!

The Hollins Opportunity for Promise through Education (HOPE) at Hollins University provides full tuition to students who attend Hollins full-time for four years.

Students admitted to Hollins who currently reside within 40 miles of Hollins' Roanoke campus are invited to apply. Students whose families have a household adjusted gross income of $50,000 a year or less will receive priority.

Hosted by the State Council of Higher Education in Virginia, Level Up provides step-by-step resources and checklists related to applying to college, applying to financial aid, and other important information.

The SAT is a globally recognized college admission test that lets you show colleges what you know and how well you can apply that knowledge. The SAT measures your level of reading, writing and math comprehension. Most high school students take the ACT, SAT, or both during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year. 

The SAT offers fee waivers to eligible students.

Level Up provides resources for students with disabilities who are applying to college.

Navigating school and planning for the future can be challenging, especially if you’re experiencing instability at home. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act exists to make sure you have equal opportunities and access to support. Visit the Level Up website for resources for students attending college.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an application that allows students to receive federal grants and loans to pay for college.

Grants: Financial aid that generally doesn’t have to be repaid.

Work-Study: A federal work program through which undergraduates and graduate students at participating schools earn money to help pay for school.

Loans: Borrowed money for college or career school; your loans must be repaid with interest.

In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for state and school aid. Some private aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.

Search for more than 23,000 scholarships through College Board.

Students who are nonimmigrants, undocumented, have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status or are otherwise ineligible to file the FAFSA and would like to be considered for state financial aid should submit the Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application. The VASA application provides access only to state financial aid.

The Virginia Registered Apprenticeship (RA) is a training system that produces highly skilled workers to meet the demands of employers competing in a global economy, through a combination of on-the-job training and theoretical classroom instruction. It is a "win-win" approach to workforce development for more than 13,000 apprentices (employees) throughout the Commonwealth.

Roanoke County Public Schools, Roanoke City Public Schools and Salem City Public Schools partner with local businesses to provide RA opportunities for juniors and seniors.

Build Your Future Virginia’s mission is to educate Virginia residents about high paying construction careers, training opportunities and mapping career paths to employment in these high demand occupations.

Vocational-technical and career colleges provide specialized training in specific industries or careers. These colleges offer a range of programs of study, such as culinary arts, firefighting, dental hygiene and medical records technology. Typically, these programs lead to certificates or associate degrees, equipping students with practical skills for their chosen fields.

The Virginia Community College System's FastForward program is a fantastic opportunity for students seeking affordable and efficient career training. Designed to quickly equip individuals with in-demand skills, FastForward offers short-term courses in fields like healthcare, information technology and skilled trades. With reduced tuition for eligible students, FastForward makes gaining valuable job-ready skills accessible, helping you take confident steps toward a fulfilling career. 

Every branch of the military sets its own standards for enlisting. Visit usa.gov to learn about the specific requirements for each, including the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

Enlisting in the military is a significant decision that offers unique opportunities for personal growth, career development and service to your country. If you’re considering joining the military, it’s important to understand the enlistment process and the potential benefits military service can bring.