Learn more about postsecondary readiness, dual enrollment, college, workforce development, financial aid, scholarships, the military, SAT/ACT, SYOP, 9th-grade academies, and more!
The Office of Postsecondary Readiness is here to assist students and families in planning their futures after high school. We want to make sure you have all the information, resources, and opportunities needed to map your pathway to success. Whether you’re aiming for college, technical education, or a career straight out of school, we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Let’s work together, to ensure you’re well-prepared for whatever lies ahead!
Students must meet the criteria for one of five Pathways to Graduation outlined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Click here to learn more about each pathway and all requirements to graduate.
Select a program to learn more.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses were created to provide students with a pathway to earn college credits while in high school. The rigorous college-level courses help students develop critical thinking skills, scholarly writing, and time management. Students enrolled in AP courses have the ability to earn college credits if they score a 3 or higher on the AP exam.
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
The coursework pulls together specialized content to develop challenging programs of international education and rigorous assessment. These programs encourage students to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.
Explore the multitude of college access programs in Philadelphia offering comprehensive services to students. From college search to financial aid assistance, SAT prep, and advanced coursework, these programs pave the way for students’ successful transition to higher education. Discover our highlighted programs below.
Heights Philadelphia -Steppingstone Scholars work with families and school partners to create more sustainable access to academic and workforce opportunities for Black, Brown, and first-generation students.
Partner Schools: Click here to see if your school is a partner!
Philadelphia Education Fund (PEF) – The College Access Program at PEF can help you get READY, get SET, and GO to college!
Partner Schools: Frankford, Furness, Bartram, Kensington CAPA, Olney, Robeson, and Roxborough High Schools
Harcum College Upward Bound Program – This program is designed to help program participants overcome the educational, cultural, and social barriers of society, and works to build and enhance the skills and motivation needed to enter and complete post-secondary education
Partner Schools: John Bartram High School, William Sayre High School, and Samuel Fels High School
Temple University Upward Bound Program – This program prepares students for admission to institutions for higher learning and success in the collegiate environment through intense academic enrichment, a summer college immersion experience, enhanced cognitive and critical thinking, and extensive interpersonal development through positive social interactions.
Partner Schools: (9th and 10th-grade students) Benjamin Franklin, Dobbins Career and Technical Education, Simon Gratz Mastery Charter, Strawberry Mansion, and The U School
TRIO Upward Bound – For students from low-income households or from homes where neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree. The program provides academic support, emotional encouragement, and assistance with the college application and financial aid process as a means of overcoming social barriers to higher education. You must either be the first person in your family to go to college and/or must qualify as low-income by the U.S. Department of Education’s guidelines.
Partner Schools:9 (9th and 10th-grade students) Benjamin Franklin, Building 21, Furness, or South Philadelphia High School
University of Pennsylvania High School Upward Bound Program – A college preparatory program designed to motivate and prepare students in the program for the successful pursuit of a four-year college education.
Partner Schools: Sayre, Overbrook, West Philadelphia, and Parkway West
Students entering 9th grade can choose to attend their neighborhood high school, or apply to any other of our high schools. Learn more about the programs offered at various schools to help you choose the right fit!
Some of our schools offer a special transition program for incoming 9th graders.
The purpose of 9th Grade Academy is to develop a comprehensive instructional support program that helps students successfully transition from middle to high school, and prepares them for success through high school and beyond. Incoming 9th grade students are offered additional events and opportunities to bond with fellow students, get comfortable in school buildings and classroom environments, and learn what to expect from their high school experience.
If you’re interested in this program, please consider applying to one of the schools listed below.
An evidence-based, school-based program that supports and eases students’ successful transitions into middle and high school by tapping into the power of older students to create a nurturing environment for incoming students.
Learn more HERE.
PSATs are practice versions of the standardized SAT test. All District students take the PSAT, and some will continue on to take and use the SAT for college applications. With your child’s PSAT results, they can:
To learn more, visit our standardized test information HERE
Familiarize yourself with the various ways your coursework, hands-on CTE experience, or other educational pursuits can help you on your journey to graduation, CLICK HERE.
Use the Parent and Family Portal to:
Prepare for 10thIf your school offers CTE, now is the time to apply for that program. Be sure you understand all the application requirements and deadlines! Learn more HERE.
The Pennsylvania Child Labor Law requires children ages 14 through 17 to obtain working papers (also called a work permit) before they can start working. Information on how to obtain Working Papers is here.
Prepare for 11thPGC-High School includes a year-long, credit-bearing leadership course for high school juniors and seniors that meet daily and is taught by school faculty. Through their leadership course, these juniors and seniors become trained peer leaders who meet once per week with freshmen in outreach sessions designed to strengthen relationships among students across grades. See the list of participating schools HERE and learn more about how to get involved!
Dual enrollment is when a student takes a college course while enrolled in both high school and an Institution of Higher Education. Learn more HERE.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form that can be prepared annually by current and prospective college students in the United States to determine their eligibility for student financial aid.
The SAT is an entrance exam used by many colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. The SAT Student Guide can be found here. Not all colleges and universities require SAT scores so read your application packets carefully!
The ACT is an entrance exam used by many colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. It’s similar yet different from the SAT and some students find they’re more comfortable with one test over the other. You should look into both and choose the one that fits your strengths best to help ensure you get the best score possible.
The ACT has four sections: English, Reading, Math and Science, as well as an optional 40-minute writing test. Some schools may require the writing test, so be sure to ask before you take it. Learn more about what’s on the ACT.
Please contact your School Counselor for assistance with registration for the SAT and ACT exams.
The Career Coach helps you decide what kinds of occupations and jobs you might want to explore based on your interests. This could help you focus your future area of education or work. Learn more HERE.
Prepare for 12thThe Senior Year Only Program (SYOP) is an innovative approach to high school offerings that seeks to prepare students for both college and career by connecting learning in the classroom with real-world applications in the workplace. Learn more HERE.
Click Here to find upcoming College Fairs & events, financial aid workshops, and more!
Dual enrollment is when a student takes a college course while enrolled in both high school and an Institution of Higher Education. Dual enrollment provides students with an opportunity to complete college-level coursework and earn college credits which saves students time and money.
The School District of Philadelphia will cover the costs of books and tuition for eligible high school juniors and seniors at participating colleges and universities. Each college/university has its own admission requirements so please review them before submitting your application.
If you have any questions regarding the Dual Enrollment program, please email dualenrollment@philasd.org or speak with your High School Counselor.
DUAL CREDIT – ON COLLEGE CAMPUS
Students earn both high school and college credits for the same course on a college campus.
DUAL CREDIT – COLLEGE IN THE HIGH SCHOOL
Students earn both high school and college credit for the same course, taught by a college professor at the high school (typically after-school).
CONCURRENT MODEL
Students earn both high school and college credits and take college-credit-bearing courses taught by college-approved high school teachers.
* Additional criteria may apply depending on the college/university.
** Students must complete the application required by the college/university.
City of Philadelphia Mandate:
All students participating in dual enrollment courses at colleges and universities in the city will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 unless they have a religious or medical exemption.
Imagine completing high school with a diploma AND 24 transferable college credits, or multiple industry certifications to jump-start your college and career goals! This is what the School District of Philadelphia’s Senior Year Only Program (SYOP) is all about!
The Senior Year Only Program seeks to prepare high school seniors for both college AND career by connecting classroom learning with real-world applications in the workplace. Students enrolled in SYOP either take classes on a college campus or spend time at the Fox Chase Farm earning industry certifications in urban agriculture. The Senior Year Only Program is a full school year commitment. Lunch and transportation are provided.
Select a program to learn more.
Who is eligible to apply for S.Y.O.P.?
Students need a minimum of 17.5 quality credits by the end of their Junior year to qualify for S.Y.O.P. The credit breakdown is below:3 English, 3 Math, 3 Science, 3 Social Studies, 2 World Language, 2 Electives, 1 Physical Education and .5 Health.
What if I will not have 17.5 credits by fall 2023?
Students who do not have 17.5 credits by the start of their senior year will not be able to participate in the program.
Can I apply to more than one program?
Yes. Students can apply for two programs by ranking preference. Students will only be accepted into one.
What is the minimum GPA for S.Y.O.P.?
The Temple Education Scholars program requires a 3.0 GPA. Other S.Y.O.P. programming does not require a minimum GPA.
When are S.Y.O.P. applications due?
All applications are due March 31, 2023. Late applications will not be accepted.
What are the requirements to apply for S.Y.O.P.?
A Completed Google application including your high school transcript.
When will I know if I am admitted into S.Y.O.P.?
Selected applicants will be notified by June 2023.
Is there a cost for S.Y.O.P.?
S.Y.O.P. is free of charge for students! Students will receive transportation, lunch, and necessary books/materials for all programs.
Where will S.Y.O.P. take place?
There is a possibility that programs will be virtual. Should in-person learning resume, locations will be the following:
What certificates/license/college credits will I receive?
How many days a week will S.Y.O.P. take place?
There is a possibility that programs will be virtual.
I have applied for a S.Y.O.P. program. What are my next steps?
Applications will be reviewed and students will receive official notification of next steps via email. Next steps vary depending on your program.
What are the start and end dates of each program?
S.Y.O.P. is a full school year commitment.
Are current CTE students eligible for S.Y.O.P.?
All students are encouraged to apply.
How do I obtain a S.Y.O.P. application?
The application can be accessed here.
How do I obtain more information about S.Y.O.P.?
Visit the website and register for one of the upcoming information sessions (TBD).
Am I still eligible to play sports while attending S.Y.O.P.?
Yes! Students in S.Y.O.P can participate in sports at their school.
The Advanced Senior Year (ASY) Program is designed for qualifying high school seniors to complete their senior year of high school at the Community College of Philadelphia. By the end of senior year, students enrolled in ASY will have the ability to earn their high school diploma as well as up to 27 college credits towards an associate degree with a Liberal Arts focus. This opportunity will give students a jump-start on a college career and provide exposure to more rigorous coursework in preparation for academic success.
How to complete the application
The Animal Science and Food Systems Relationships – Senior Only Program (ASFSR-SYOP) is a free program designed for qualifying high school seniors with an interest in Urban Agriculture and Landscape Design with no prior exposure to CTE programs.
This program prepares students to apply knowledge and skills in agriculture’s food systems, nutrition and health. Students are exposed to the complex intersections and relationships among food, policy, labor, social justice, economics, the environment, culture, and population health. Students will have competency in food systems, nutrition, public health, social and economic equity, and sustainability, as well as strong liberal arts preparation in intellectual and practical skills like inquiry, analysis, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving, all of which enables them to address issues such as domestic and global food and nutrition security.
Instruction will cover the basic skills in a variety of areas associated with agriculture such as animal science and food systems relationships. Instruction includes but is not limited to computer science and technology; plant, animal, and soil sciences; and small and large equipment operating.
The program will be housed at Fox Chase Farm with experiential visits at various agricultural sites around the City of Philadelphia and surrounding counties. Students enrolled in ASFSR -SYOP will be at Fox Chase Farm (or other industry related site) for one or two full days each week and report to their home school for the three or four remaining days each week.
Students enrolled in ASFSR -SYOP will meet all of the requirements for graduation of the School District of Philadelphia inclusive of the senior project. All costs related to projects, resources (texts, etc.), certification fees and transportation would be covered by The School District of Philadelphia.
The UAW-SYOP Program is seeking applications from current 11th-grade students enrolled in a School District of Philadelphia schools. Current juniors must meet the criteria below to qualify for the program:
Students must submit the following information in order to be considered for the program:
Students will be notified of the next steps via email (please ensure that you provide an email address that you can access) inclusive of an interview
Temple Education Scholars (TES) is a year-long dual enrollment program designed for college-bound high school seniors to take up to 5 education courses at Temple University in a supportive environment. This program prepares students for future employment as educators within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. While not all TES participants may ultimately pursue admission to Temple, a major in education, and/or a career as an educator, all will certainly benefit from the course offerings, the relationships with peers, TES program staff, and Temple professors, and the experience of successfully completing up to five college courses.
Complete and submit the Google SYOP application (be sure to indicate TES as one of your program preferences).
Qualifying students will be invited to participate in an interview
Students will be notified of acceptance by June 2023
The Urban Ag Works Senior Only Program (UAW-SYOP) is a free program designed for qualifying high school seniors with an interest in Urban Agriculture with no prior exposure to CTE programs.
This program prepares individuals to apply knowledge and skills in the agricultural field. Instruction will cover the basic skills in a variety of areas associated with agriculture such as agricultural business and production, forestry, agricultural mechanization, horticulture services, agriculture sciences, and/or conservation and renewable natural resources. Instruction includes but is not limited to computer science; plant, animal, and soil sciences; principles of ecology and resource management; forestry; hydrology; principles of electronics; blueprint reading; and engine maintenance and repair.
The program will be housed at Fox Chase Farm with experiential visits at various agricultural sites around the City of Philadelphia and surrounding counties. Students enrolled in UAW-SYOP will be at Fox Chase Farm (or other industry related site) for the two full days each week and report to their home school for the three remaining days each week.
Students enrolled in UAW-SYOP will meet all of the requirements for graduation of the School District of Philadelphia inclusive of the senior project. All costs related to projects, resources (texts, etc.), certification fees and transportation will be covered by The School District of Philadelphia.
The UAW-SYOP Program is seeking applications from current 11th-grade students enrolled in a School District of Philadelphia schools. Current juniors must meet the criteria below to qualify for the program:
Students must submit the following information in order to be considered for the program:
Students will be notified of the next steps via email (please ensure that you provide an email address that you can access) inclusive of an interview
The Urban Agriculture and Landscape Design Senior Only Program (UALD-SYOP) is a free program designed for qualifying high school seniors with an interest in Urban Agriculture and Landscape Design with no prior exposure to CTE programs. This program prepares individuals to apply knowledge and skills in the agricultural field.
Instruction will cover the basic skills in a variety of areas associated with agriculture such as horticulture services, agricultural mechanization, agriculture sciences, and/or conservation and renewable natural resources. Instruction includes but is not limited to, computer science and technology; plant, animal, and soil sciences; design management; blueprint reading; and small and large equipment operating.
The program will be housed at Fox Chase Farm with experiential visits to various agricultural sites around the City of Philadelphia and surrounding counties. Students enrolled in UALD-SYOP will be at Fox Chase Farm (or other industry-related sites) for one or two full days each week and report to their home school for the three or four remaining days each week.
Students enrolled in UALD-SYOP will meet all of the requirements for graduation of the School District of Philadelphia inclusive of the senior project. All costs related to projects, resources (texts, etc.), certification fees, and transportation will be provided by The School District of Philadelphia.
The UALD-SYOP Program is seeking applications from current 11th-grade students enrolled in a School District of Philadelphia schools. Current juniors must meet the criteria below to qualify for the program:
Students must submit the following information in order to be considered for the program:
Students will be notified of the next steps via email (please ensure that you provide an email address that you can access) inclusive of an interview
Searching for money to fund your postsecondary path? Use the resources below to search for scholarships, and find financial aid.
Financial aid is available for those who qualify and can be used to help you pay for college or career school.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a form that can be prepared annually by current and prospective college students in the United States to determine their eligibility for student financial aid.
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) is a national provider of student financial aid services, through state grant, loan guaranty, loan servicing, financial aid processing, outreach, and other student aid programs.
FinAid! offers information on financing your education.
Selective Service registration is required by law as the first part of a fair and equitable system that, if authorized by the President and Congress, would rapidly provide personnel to the Department of Defense while at the same time providing for an Alternative Service Program for conscientious objectors. By registering, a young man remains eligible for jobs, Federal student aid, State-based student aid in 31 states, Federally-funded job training, and U.S. citizenship for immigrant men.
Click here to search for a scholarship to help fund your postsecondary educational plans.
Student Scholarships – One of the largest collections of scholarships on the web.
Naviance – Login to your SDP Student Account and click on the Naviance Box. On the homepage, you will see the link for Scholarship Search. There you will find a scholarship bank of hundreds of scholarships that are updated on a regular basis.
BigFuture – Great site to find additional scholarships to help pay for college.
United Negro College Fund UNCF – Great site to find additional scholarships to help pay for college specifically HBCUs.
The Gates Scholarship – A highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for 300 exceptional, Pell-eligible, minority, high school seniors.
Fast Web – Great site to find additional scholarships to help pay for college.
Scholarships for Computer Science Majors – Guide for college financing options for CS majors
Scholarships for Undocumented Students – Provides scholarship information in English and Spanish for students of Latino/Hispanic heritage.
College Greenlight – Connects first-generation and underrepresented students to caring colleges, generous scholarships, and life-changing counselors and mentors.
Raise.Me – A social enterprise focused on expanding access to higher education, especially among low income and first-generation students.
My Scholly – Scholly is a scholarship matching platform made by students for students! It’s simple, accurate, and full of scholarship management tools. There is a small fee for the app and online portal.
Octavius Catto Scholarship – Free College and the Support You Need to Succeed!
Combining last-dollar funding with special wrap-around support services, the scholarship will address obstacles like tuition and fees as well as burdens that hit many Philadelphians—especially those living in poverty—particularly hard, including costs associated with food, transportation and books.
Eligible full-time students will receive last-dollar funding, enhanced coaching and advising, and support for food, transportation and books.
Catto Scholars will receive both tuition support as well as many academic resources and services, such as:
The GEAR UP READY Project (Reimagining Educational Access for Deserving Youth) provides students critical access to traditional and non-traditional postsecondary pathways. Our aim is to motivate and build students with robust preparation in learning about college and future careers, building 21st-century workforce skills, and providing various supports as they determine viable pathways to postsecondary education. Programming includes field trips to various colleges, access to scholarship information, and more.
Objectives:
Coming soon!
Let’s Get Ready
Let’s Get Ready provides low-income high school students with free SAT preparation, admissions counseling and other support services needed to gain admission to and graduate from college. Services are provided by volunteer college students who also serve as role models and mentors.
Philadelphia Futures
Philadelphia Futures is a nonprofit organization that provides Philadelphia’s low-income, first-generation-to-college students with the tools, resources and opportunities necessary for admission to and success in college. Philadelphia Futures also provides high schools with the Step Up To College Guide which is the premier college guidance resource for high school students and their families.
Together, as one US Military, members from these branches are responsible for the safety and protection of U.S. citizens both here in America and overseas. There are over 800 different types of jobs in every industry imaginable from STEAM, Communications, Healthcare, Trades, Mechanics, Transportation, Public Affairs, to so many more. It’s also important to note that about 85 percent of the jobs in the military do not involve direct combat. To learn more about careers in the military, click here.
The 7 Military branches consist of the:
In many cases, young adults may want to not only get a college degree, but also get military training. This is where you may want to explore a Military College or Academy.
Military Colleges are separated into three categories: service academies, senior military colleges, and military junior colleges. Military Colleges can offer you an opportunity to get a college education and a military job after.
Visit each Military Academy for specific application information
Contact your School Counselor or JROTC teacher instructor for assistance.
A Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship will cover most of your college expenses in return for your participation in military training while in college and service after you graduate. Whether you are a student interested in a career in the military or looking for a well-structured career path after college, an ROTC scholarship may be an option to consider.
NROTC Marine Scholarship (Full Tuition Scholarship) The Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) is a multi-year program that runs concurrently with a student’s normal college or university educational course of study. In addition to a normal academic workload leading to a Bachelor’s degree, NROTC students attend classes in Naval Science and participate in unit drill and physical training, amongst other activities. Students are also taught the leadership principles and high ideals of a military officer. During the summer break between school years, NROTC students participate in a variety of training courses. These periods of instruction help students understand different career options, as well as familiarize them with military life. Upon graduation, students are commissioned as second lieutenants in the Marine Corps.
Want to learn more about this scholarship opportunity? Contact your local Marine Corp Recruiter.
Army ROTC Scholarships – Whether you’re a college-bound high school student or already attending a college or university, Army ROTC has scholarships available. Scholarships are awarded based on a student’s merit and grades, not financial need.
Army ROTC scholarships consist of:
Click here for more information.
Want to learn more about this scholarship opportunity? Contact your local Army Recruiter.
Email: collegeandcareer@philasd.org
We can answer postsecondary questions regarding, but not limited to, college, workforce development programs, internships, CTE, working papers, financial aid, scholarships, postsecondary events, SAT/ACT, SYOP, dual-enrollment, 9th-grade academies, and postsecondary events and initiatives.
Please be as specific as possible when writing your questions so they can be sent to the appropriate manager/director to assist you.
* Expect a response within 24-72 hours depending on the day/time the email is received. Thank you. *