Student Services - Frequently Asked Questions

We use a tool called MajorClarity that lets students in grades 7–12 explore different careers and map out an academic path. It helps them see how their interests connect to real jobs and education options, whether that’s college, trade school, the military, or jumping into the workforce.

Our Pathway to Graduation guide explains what courses and credits are required, outlines important deadlines, and shows recognition opportunities. It’s designed to keep students on track from the start of high school through senior year.

Students planning to attend college can find details about scholarships, financial aid, AP classes, dual enrollment, and university admissions on our Prepare for College page. Counselors are also available to answer questions and help with applications.

That’s okay. Many students choose other paths, like entering the workforce, learning a trade, or joining the military. Our Career Readiness resources provide tools and connections to help students succeed no matter which path they choose.

You can view a summary of the school's community, academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, demographics and achievements through the school's profile. For more information about your school's specific profile view here check out the link below.

View school's specific profile →

When students begin high school at BCLA, they select a diploma track—Standard, Honors, or STEM. Each track outlines the courses, GPA, and testing requirements needed for graduation. Students may switch tracks later by meeting with their Student Services Advisor.

BCLA supports students no matter what path they choose after high school—college, trade school, the military, or entering the workforce. Counselors provide guidance, resources, and connections to help students take the next step with confidence.

In 11th grade, students take the ACT and may also take the SAT if they choose. These assessments help with college admissions and scholarship opportunities.

Students should begin exploring scholarships as early as 10th grade and continue through 11th and 12th grades. Financial aid applications, including FAFSA, typically open during the spring semester of senior year.

Most applications are completed in 11th and 12th grade. Students will also need to request transcripts and meet deadlines for their preferred schools.

Mandatory graduation practices and other requirements are directed by the campus. Seniors order their cap and gown in the first semester of 12th grade. Contact your student services advisor for more information.

Yes. BCLA requires a minimum of 24 credits for graduation. These include:

• 4 English credits
• 4 Math credits
• 3 Science credits
• 4 History/Social Science credits
• 1 Physical Education credit
• 2 CTE, Fine Arts or Language credit
• 1 Leadership & Entrepreneurship credit
• 1 Computer Science
• 4 Elective credits

View Graduation Requirements for more details →

• Valedictorian: Highest weighted GPA in the graduating class (with eligibility requirements).
• Salutatorian: Second-highest weighted GPA in the graduating class (with eligibility requirements).
• Cum Laude: Top 25% of graduates with at least a 3.5 GPA.
• Magna Cum Laude: Top 10% of graduates with at least a 3.8 GPA.
• Summa Cum Laude: Top 5% of graduates with at least a 4.0 GPA.

All school fees must be paid in full, and student records must be finalized before diplomas are issued.

It’s wise to get a head start. Many families begin talking through plans the summer before senior year—while juniors can be researching colleges, visiting campuses, prepping for tests, and lining up recommendations. A simple spreadsheet with deadlines and requirements for each school can work wonders.

It’s smart to create a mix. Aim for some ambitious picks, some solid matches based on grades and interests, and at least one or two schools where admission feels more certain. This approach gives students options and eases stress.

If there's one school that perfectly fits—and you’re sure you’d enroll if accepted—early decision can offer a boost in admission odds. Just be mindful: it’s a binding commitment. Early action offers faster decisions, but you aren’t locked in.

Rolling admission means you submit your application within a long window and usually hear back within weeks—not a fixed deadline. It’s less pressure, but applying early can help with admission, housing, and financial aid.

Absolutely. Essays give a voice to your application—they let admissions officers hear what drives you, in a way transcripts and scores can’t capture. Because many colleges weigh them heavily, especially with test-optional policies, they’re a powerful space to share who you are.

It’s more than just grades. Colleges want to see curiosity, involvement, authenticity, and how well a student fits their community vibe. Essays, recommendations, activities, and personal qualities all play a part in that holistic review.

Many colleges and universities are still test-optional, while others have gone back to requiring SAT or ACT scores. No matter what your future school decides, strong test scores can really help—especially when it comes to scholarships and merit-based awards. So, take the tests seriously and do your best. Remember, colleges usually look at your highest score, so every effort counts!

Not as much as you’d think.  What matters more are your skills, drive, and attitude.

Review the NCDPI Dual Credit Allowances for Career & College Promise Document for more information on direct graduation replacements. Consult with BCLA Student Services before making your decision.

There are a few main options. Scholarships and grants are the big ones because you don’t usually have to pay them back. Work-study is another, which means earning money through a part-time job while in school. Then there are loans, which do need to be repaid with interest, so it’s important to borrow carefully.

Scholarships are offered by a wide range of groups—schools, local businesses, community organizations, and even national companies. Some are large and competitive, others are smaller and more specific. A student might get one for strong grades, athletics, art, leadership, or even something quirky like writing an essay on a unique topic. They add up, so applying to many is worth the time.

There are online databases like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and College Board’s Big Future. Those are good starting points. But don’t ignore local opportunities. Employers, clubs, and community foundations often offer scholarships that are less publicized but easier to win.

Yes. Never pay a fee to apply—that’s a red flag. Start early, keep a running list of deadlines, and apply to more than you think you need. If something looks questionable, check with your counselor before you spend time on it.

FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s basically the form that opens the door to most types of financial help, including grants, loans, and work-study. Many colleges also use it to award their own aid, so even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, you should still fill it out.

As soon as it opens for your student’s graduating year. Funds can run out, and earlier applications tend to get more options.

Yes. Loans are borrowed money plus interest. They can help bridge the gap if scholarships and grants aren’t enough, but it’s smart to borrow only what you really need.

Your school counselor is the best place to start. They can explain the process, suggest scholarship resources, and walk you through FAFSA if it feels overwhelming.

MajorClarity is a planning tool for students in grades 7–12. It helps them explore careers, connect their interests to real opportunities, and create an academic plan for the future—whether that path leads to college, trade school, the military, or the workforce.

For students exploring military service, the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is offered at no cost through the ASVAB Career Exploration Program. The test measures strengths and helps students connect their skills with both military and civilian career paths. Taking the ASVAB does not mean a commitment to enlistment, but it does give valuable insight into potential opportunities. Students can also meet with recruiters from every branch to learn more about service options.

Students can visit:

• careersinthemilitary.com
• todaysmilitary.com
• Branch-specific sites such as airforce.com, goarmy.com, navy.com, marines.com, and uscg.mil.

The Common App allows students to apply to multiple colleges with a single online form. Over 450 schools use it, making the process more efficient.

Students who want to compete in college athletics should review requirements early. Staying on track with the right courses and GPA is essential, and advisors can provide guidance on eligibility

Standardized tests such as the PSAT, SAT, and ACT are important for college admissions and scholarships. Students should also begin exploring scholarships and FAFSA early to stay ahead of deadlines.