College Counseling

NINTH GRADE YEAR

TRANSITION & EXPLORATION

At TFS, we help students build strong study habits, time management, and organizational skills while emphasizing the importance of grades from the very beginning. Students are guided to select a balanced yet challenging course load to prepare for college.

Equally important is self-discovery—exploring interests, strengths, and values—while encouraging involvement in extracurricular activities like clubs, sports, arts, and community service, without pressure to commit long-term. We also focus on building meaningful relationships with teachers, peers, and the wider community to foster mentorship, support, and a sense of belonging.

Finally, we introduce students to college awareness, discussing the purpose and variety of higher education options, and beginning light conversations about long-term goals in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

TENTH GRADE YEAR

growth & direction

Building on the foundations from 9th grade, students evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement, adjusting study strategies and increasing rigor in coursework through honors or AP classes where appropriate. They review grades to understand how they impact GPA and college admissions.

Extracurricular involvement deepens as students focus on one or two activities they enjoy, take on leadership roles, and explore summer enrichment opportunities such as camps, internships, volunteering, or academic programs. Career and interest exploration continues through personality and career inventories, helping students connect potential college majors to their interests.

College awareness expands with introductions to standardized testing (PSAT/NMSQT, SAT/ACT), attendance at college fairs or information sessions with families, and consideration of factors such as size, location, programs, and campus culture. Students also begin planning for the long term by creating a tentative four-year academic plan and maintaining records of extracurriculars, awards, and volunteer work.

ELEVENTH GRADE YEAR

Thoughtful guidance when it matters most

At Tallulah Falls School, the college admission process is a collaborative partnership between students, families, and the school’s college counseling program. Each spring, juniors take part in intentional preparation for their transition into senior year and the next steps of their academic journey.

As part of this process, every rising senior participates in meetings with the Director of College Counseling. These sessions address both scheduling for the final year of high school and key components of postsecondary planning.

During the meetings, students review their graduation requirements, current GPA (weighted, unweighted, and HOPE GPA, if applicable), remaining dual enrollment hours under the Georgia Student Finance Commission’s 30-hour cap, and teacher recommendations for academic courses and electives. They also receive an unofficial transcript and, if eligible, a detailed HOPE GPA calculations report.

In addition, students are introduced to important elements of the college admission process, including application timelines, the Common Application, dual enrollment opportunities, letters of recommendation, Naviance, SAT/ACT testing, and transcript requests. Campus visits are also emphasized as a meaningful part of the search process. Students are encouraged to work directly with admission departments to schedule visits, and every admissions representative visiting the TFS campus reinforces this message: students who feel comfortable on a college campus are more likely to thrive academically once enrolled.

This spring initiative ensures that rising seniors enter their final year with a clear understanding of their academic standing, a roadmap for success, and the confidence to take ownership of their college admission journey. Tallulah Falls School remains committed to equipping students and families with the knowledge and support needed to navigate the process successfully.

TWELFTH GRADE YEAR

Walking alongside you through one of life’s biggest moments

The first Friday of each school year marks a Tallulah Falls School tradition: Senior Splash and Swim. This annual event marks the beginning of senior year while also highlighting key milestones in the college admission process. During the program, seniors review critical items, including using Naviance, creating and matching their Common Application accounts with Naviance, understanding the components of the personal essay, and carefully reviewing their transcripts to ensure they accurately reflect the full breadth of their coursework leading into senior year.

This kickoff event is just one example of how TFS provides comprehensive support for students as they prepare for life beyond high school. The college counseling office oversees the entire admission process for Upper School students, providing structured guidance while also tailoring support to individual needs.

Throughout the year, students meet individually and in groups to learn how to navigate the admission process. This includes guidance on the Common Application, SAT, ACT, TOEFL, and Duolingo assessments, as well as instruction on Naviance. The Director of College Counseling is available to answer specific questions about college applications and provide seniors with information on identifying scholarship opportunities and completing the FAFSA.

Additionally, the college counseling office creates, prepares, and submits essential application materials on behalf of students, including transcripts, personalized letters of recommendation, and other required Common Application reports.

From the first splash of senior year to the final submission of college applications, Tallulah Falls School ensures each student has the tools, resources, and encouragement to successfully take on the next step in their academic journey.