X-GUIDE | Using your summer for an effective college search

Summer is the perfect time to kick back and relax, but it’s also an important time to set yourself up for a successful college search (and
less stress during your senior year!). We’re here to help. We’ve put together a list of the top 7 things you can do this summer as a
rising senior:

1 Discuss with your family

Summer is a great time to have a conversation with your family around expectations for college options. Be open and honest about
your must-haves and deal-breakers in a college experience, so you can all be on the same page going into your senior year.

2 Revisit your list of colleges

After some initial exploration, revisit your list of colleges. Has anything changed? Be sure to consider factors like location, majors and
programs, campus life, cost and more. Each of these play a role in the type of college experience you will have.

3 Visit different types of campuses

Every school is different, and that includes their campuses. If you can, use your summer to visit multiple schools and get a feel for
what you like and don’t like. Are you looking for a college town or urban setting? Do you feel more comfortable on a small or large
campus? Keep these questions in mind as you visit schools.

4 Understand application requirements

Every school has its own application requirements, and they may also vary depending on the program you are applying to. Use your
summer to research your top schools’ requirements and deadlines so you can hit the ground running once applications open.

5 Think more about testing

Many schools (including Xavier) are test-optional, and students are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score to be considered for
admission. We want to review an application that you feel best represents your unique strengths.

6 Start your college essay

This is your chance to paint a picture of who you are and why you are a good fit for the colleges you are considering. We recommend
getting a head start on your essays during the summer, and you can modify each one to fit your specific schools as you get closer to
applying.

7 Think about who you will ask for letters of recommendation

Most schools require letters of recommendation as part of your application. When you are thinking of who to ask, consider those
who know you well and can speak to what makes you distinct and special. A few people you could ask include teachers, coaches,
counselors or advisors, and others you know through your community.
 POINTS OF PRIDE

98% OF STUDENTS CINCINNATI:

6
are employed, attending grad school or
working in service or volunteer positions FORTUNE 500
within six months of graduation. COMPANIES
Class of 2021

4
NATIONALLY
RECOGNIZED
80,000 HOURS HOSPITALS

#1
of community service completed each year
BEST CITY
for college grads
86%OF APPLICANTS
are accepted into medical school
SmartAsset

compared to the 40% national average. THE GIFTS

Five year average, 2018-2022 OF OUR
IGNATIAN

12:1
HERITAGE
JESUIT MISSION
CATHOLIC
STUDENT : FACULTY RATIO
UNIVERSITY REFLECTION
DISCERNMENT
NATIONALLY
RANKED 6 th
oldest Catholic
university in
SOLIDARITY
AND KINSHIP
XAVIER DEBUTS IN ‘NATIONAL’ CATEGORY
the U.S.
SERVICE
U.S. NEWS AND WORLD REPORT BEST COLLEGES, 2023

Xavier University has over 90 majors and 60+ minors. Our students love the hands-on
learning experience, mentorship, and study abroad programs that we offer. Learn more
about what Xavier has to offer. Start your journey xavier.edu/academics/undergraduate.

Office of Admission | 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45207-5131 | xuadmit@xavier.edu | 513-745-3301