College Counseling
Our High School students are assisted in the college applications process starting in their first year. From standardized testing to financial aid, we offer information and services to students seeking higher education.
Freshmen
In ninth grade, college counseling focuses on preparation for standardized testing, exploring extracurriculars, and focusing on developing study skills to achieve academic success. Students will use SCOIR to take various interest assessments so they can better plan for future careers. Freshmen are also encouraged to begin attending college visits at Aquinas. Students are encouraged to meet with the college counselor to discuss course scheduling for sophomore year and discuss future plans.
Sophomores
The emphasis on standardized testing continues, with students taking the PSAT and Pre-Act. After taking these assessments, sophomores meet with the college counselor to discuss results. Students are encouraged to continue attending college visits and begin a preliminary list of schools of interest. Grades continue to be of the utmost importance, and students are strongly encouraged to continue with extracurriculars. Students will meet with the college counselor to plan junior year schedules and discuss email etiquette. The college counselor will also host seminars on professionalism and email etiquette.
Juniors
Junior year is the “work year” in relation to college applications. While admissions counselors see all three years (9, 10, and 11) on the transcript, junior year grades are considered the most significant. Students meet regularly with the college counselor to discuss grades, extracurriculars, and colleges of interest. By winter, students will have a preliminary college list (anywhere from 10-20 schools). Juniors spend three days of “boot camp” with the college counselor to learn about the application process in depth.
Seniors
Seniors work closely with the college counselor to write essays, request letters of recommendation, and complete applications. As the year progresses and students receive decisions from colleges, they will continue to meet with the college counselor to discuss resume building, interview etiquette, and financial aid.
Of the 72 Aquinas Academy students who took 142 AP Exams in 2024, 90% had a passing score of 3 or higher.
The national public school average for the Class of 2023 was 62.5%.
17% of Aquinas alumni earned recognition as National Merit Scholars, Finalists, or Commended students.
Less than 2% of high school graduates in the nation earn this recognition.
37% of Aquinas alumni have earned an AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Honors, or AP Scholar with Distinction award.
The national average for 2022 graduates was 10.3%.