What Do I Put For Institution Type in Naviance? (And Other Naviance Mysteries Solved!)
So, you’re staring at your Naviance account, trying to figure out how to apply to college and feeling more lost than a penguin in the Sahara Desert. You see the “Institution Type” field and your brain goes blank. You’re not alone, my friend. Naviance can be as confusing as trying to understand the plot of a Christopher Nolan movie. But fear not, because this blog post is here to shed some light on this baffling “Institution Type” and other Naviance mysteries that have you scratching your head.
The Institution Type Mystery: Solved!
Let’s face it, the “Institution Type” field in Naviance is about as helpful as a chocolate teapot. It’s basically a drop-down menu with a bunch of cryptic options like “4-year,” “2-year,” “University,” and “College.” You’re probably thinking, “Great, that’s really helpful!” (Note the sarcasm.) Let me break it down for you, in a way that even a toddler could understand:
- 4-year: This is for universities and colleges that offer bachelor’s degrees. Think Harvard, MIT, UCLA, and your local state university.
- 2-year: This is for community colleges, junior colleges, and technical schools that provide associate degrees or certificates.
- University: This is a catch-all for universities, which are typically larger institutions offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- College: This is for smaller institutions that usually focus on undergraduate education.
Remember: Some schools might have multiple options listed, so be sure to choose the one that best matches the institution you’re applying to. Don’t worry if you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and double-check with the school’s website or your guidance counselor.
Beyond the Institution Type: Other Naviance Headaches
Now that we’ve conquered the “Institution Type” monster, let’s tackle some other Naviance head-scratchers:
1. The “How Are You Submitting?” Question:
This one can be a bit tricky, but it’s just asking you how you’re actually sending your application to the college. Here’s a breakdown:
- Common Application: If the school accepts applications through the Common Application, choose this option.
- Coalition Application: If the school accepts applications through the Coalition Application, choose this option.
- School-Specific Website: If the school has its own application portal, select this.
- Other: If none of the above apply, and the school has a different application method, select “Other” and provide details.
2. The “Add Applications” Button:
This button is your best friend when it comes to adding colleges to your list. Don’t be afraid to click it! Just remember to double-check with the school if they require an initial transcript. Many schools, like UCs, CSUs, and CCCs, don’t need them, but it’s always best to be safe than sorry.
3. The “Result” Dropdown for UC Schools:
This dropdown menu is where you tell Naviance your acceptance status for UC schools. If you’ve been accepted, make sure to select “Accepted.” This is important because your guidance counselor needs this information to send out your final transcript.
4. The “Direct to the Institution” Option:
This option is a bit more straightforward. It basically means you’re applying to the college directly, not through a third-party application platform like the Common App.
5. The “Electronic Transcript Release Form”:
This is the magic document that allows your school to send your official transcripts to colleges. You can find it in the “Document Resources” section of your Naviance account. Make sure to fill it out accurately and submit it to your guidance counselor to get your transcripts on their way!
Naviance: Your Guide to College Admissions (Maybe)
Naviance can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but don’t let it stress you out. Remember, it’s just a tool to help you navigate the college application process. Take your time, read the instructions carefully, and if you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your guidance counselor for help. They’re there to support you every step of the way.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the Naviance jungle, don’t fret! The JobLoving community is here to help. Connect with us, and we’ll guide you through the application process with a smile (or maybe a sympathetic sigh, depending on how tangled those application forms are). Remember, you’re not alone in this journey!