College Information

PDF DocumentApplication Process - Everything you need to know

FAFSA
The first day to complete is October 1.  Don't wait too long or money will run out.

When should I apply to college?

Completing your applications by Halloween (October 31) of your senior year ensures meeting all early action and early decision deadlines, however many schools have rolling admission and will accept applications into the spring.

How do I apply to college?

  1. Complete an online application at the university's Undergraduate Admission page.

  2. Request my transcript Click on the Parchment link to create an account and request your transcripts to be sent electronically. 

  3. Submit any required forms such as letters of recommendation, personal statements, counselor forms to your counselor for uploading to your Parchment account.

Need help completing your applications?

Counselors are available anytime to meet with students in their offices upon request.  In addition, students can report to the Counseling Office during all lunch periods or early release time to get assistance with college applications and financial aid.

ISAC (Illinois State Assistance Commission) and the guidance department have partnered to provide seniors with college application and FAFSA completion.  Please sign-up in the guidance office to meet with our ISAC representative at TFS.

Looking for a Great College?

Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC)
IACAC provides various publications including "12 Reasons to Stay in Illinois" and "State Universities in Illinois - at a Glance." provides general information for all 12 state public universities.

College Week Live
This site offers online college fairs to get more information on several colleges and universities.

College Board
This is one of the most comprehensive college-search sites based on specific criterion of student interests.

Naviance
Discover and prepare for your path after high school. Take charge of learning goals and track progress.

HBCU Connect
The complete guide to historically Black Colleges & Universities and the HBCU Experience.

Virtual Tours

Virtual college tours: https://www.youvisit.com/collegesearch/

HBCU college tours: http://www.steppingintherightdirection.com/

Strive Scan College Tours Registration (9.14.20 -10.22.20): https://www.iacac.org/virtual-college-exploration/students/