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	This is the time of year students receive offers of financial aid (based on need) in addition to the merit aid (based on academic qualifications) that is offered by many colleges. For an excellent summary of the process, read this article in the Boston Globe. For information on financial aid myths and misconceptions, click here.
	Looking for some guidance on how to make that final decision regarding which college to attend? Click here for a helpful article.
	Remember to factor in the hidden fees which start to add up for students in college. An example of this is the impact of new facilities on college costs in Washington State, as fees are passed along to students.
	Do you want to learn more about WUE, the Western Undergraduate Exchange? Through WUE, students in western states may enroll in many two-year and four-year college programs at a reduced tuition level: 150 percent of the institution's regular tuition for residents. WUE tuition is considerably less than nonresident tuition.
	A good time to take SAT subject tests (previously known as the SAT IIs) is June 3rd. In addition, you may consider taking a subject test at the end of the academic year in which you have taken the course, (for example, freshman year for those taking biology that year). Subject tests are one hour each, and a maximum of three can be taken on a test date. Take a look at which tests are given on each test date as some are only offered a few times a year. If you are not sure which tests to take, click here for the specific test and download some sample questions. Many colleges, including those in the University of California system, will be requiring SAT subject tests. Advance planning can really help ease the pressure if these tests are required. The registration deadline for the May 6th SAT is April 3rd. Upcoming SAT test dates: April 1st (reasoning test only, no subject tests), May 6th, and June 3rd. The registration deadline for the June 10th ACT is May 5th. Upcoming ACT test dates: April 8th, and June 10.
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Benchmark eNews, April 2006, Volume 3, Issue 3.

We hope you enjoyed reading this issue of Benchmark eNews. Look for your next issue next month. Benchmark eNews is a free, monthly email publication. Event dates are subject to change. Visit your school counselor or call us for more information.

At Benchmark, our goal is to demystify the college application process and help you stay focused on a meaningful and effective plan. By filtering out the hype and implementing a program that is individualized and appropriate, you can relax and enjoy what should be an exciting and fulfilling time. We are committed to helping you find a college environment that will offer the greatest opportunities to experience personal and academic challenge, support and success.

The College Fair in March brought many colleges to the area. We were able to meet with several Seattle representatives to get updates on their colleges and the admission process at each school. These visits are valuable and continue throughout the year when they are in town for interviews, fairs and high school visits. Highlights from some of the schools that have visited over the last year are described below.

Lehigh University (right) in Pennsylvania is a liberal arts university that also offers a wide range of engineering options. Ninety-five percent of students live on the campus, which is one hour north of Philadelphia. Lehigh has three undergraduate schools: engineering, business, and arts and sciences. The "Nike Project" at Lehigh has given business students the opportunity to develop many products. The Integrated Business and Engineering Honors Program is a unique opportunity to study both disciplines in this combined major. Merit aid is offered to the top 10% of the applicant pool at this selective university. School spirit and a sense of community are strong, and the Greek system is a big part of the social life at Lehigh.

Landmark College (pictured above) in rural Vermont is one of the few colleges for students with learning disabilities and AD/HD. The members of the faculty and administration understand learning disabilities and work with students to develop individualized learning strategies. The advisor system is strong; all students are required to attend weekly meetings.

Many students are considering international schools as an alternative to competitive US colleges. The experience can be rewarding and beneficial to those seeking a more global education. Read about this growing trend and consider researching these options at such websites as The British Council. We met with representatives from several Scottish universities and heard about the curriculum, which is less structured than that in Britain, and includes a four (rather than three) year degree. The pool at Scotland's Stirling University is pictured here. Applications to all UK universities are through a single form, which is forwarded automatically to each school on a student's list.

More details...

The University of Washington Engineering Department will be hosting its annual open house on April 28th and 29th. This is a great opportunity to talk with UW faculty and students about engineering academics and careers (and also check out UW labs and research)
Don't miss the upcoming Pathways Parenting Lecture Series including speakers on a wide range of important topics

Convenient location in University Village!

2623 NE University Village Street, Suite 5
Seattle, WA 98105
Phone 206.838.8700
Fax 206.838.5801
Email info@bmarkassoc.com
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