Academics

College Counseling

A Premier, Four-Year, Comprehensive College Search & Selection Process

The Saint Ignatius College Prep College Counseling Office has created a premier, four-year, comprehensive college search and selection process rooted in student discernment and self-discovery. With resources and mentorship, we empower our young people to make confident decisions regarding their post-secondary plans.

Our supportive environment equips students with the tools to self-evaluate, complete deep research, and craft meaningful applications reflective of who they are. Our process fosters a healthy transition into young adulthood, and truly becoming a "Man or Woman for Others."

A Message from College Counseling Director Kurt Schmidt...

There are many resources to locate potential scholarships. The earlier a student begins this quest, the more likely they will find award-based financial help. The College Counseling Office maintains a database of local scholarships. Another important place to look is the employer of parents, grandparents or relatives. Some companies have scholarship opportunities for family members.
 
Check out our list of links to scholarship aggregators. You will need to create an account and complete a profile to receive customized listings of scholarships that fit your criteria.

Standardized Tests

  • Practice ACT: This test, administered to all freshmen, sophomores and juniors in the spring, provides direction for educational and career planning and has the additional benefit of providing practice for the ACT assessment.
  • PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test): This test is taken in the fall of junior year as a qualifying test for national recognition and preparation for the SAT that will be taken in the spring of junior year. Sophomores also take the test in the fall as practice. 
  • ACT (American College Testing Program) & SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test): Because most colleges require scores on either the ACT or the SAT, all students are encouraged to take both tests in the spring of their junior year.
  • National Center for Fair & Open Testing (FairTest): This center works to end the misuses and flaws of standardized testing and to ensure that evaluation of students, teachers and schools is fair, open, valid and educationally beneficial. You can search on this site for test optional colleges and universities.
  • AP (Advanced Placement Tests): These tests are for students who have taken Advanced Placement or certain honors level courses in high school. APs are given in May in specific areas. Depending on a particular college's AP policy, a student may gain advanced standing in college. Other tests are available upon request or at the counselor's discretion. Professional consultation and referrals are used when necessary.

Where our 2023 Grads Landed

College Counseling Deadlines and Events

Meet the Team

List of 3 members.

  • Photo of Kurt Schmidt

    Mr. Kurt Schmidt 

    Director of College Counseling
    (312) 421-5900
  • Photo of Margaret Miranda

    Ms. Margaret Miranda 

    College Counselor
  • Photo of Rene Gomez

    Mr. Rene Gomez 

    College Counselor

List of 3 members.

  • Photo of Dana Jenkins

    Mr. Dana Jenkins 

    College Counselor
    312-432-8353
  • Photo of Kathleen Granholm

    Ms. Kathleen Granholm 

    College Counselor
    312-432-8450
  • Photo of Janet Harrison

    Mrs. Janet Harrison 

    Administrative Assistant

Saint Ignatius College Prep

Saint Ignatius College Prep, a Jesuit Catholic school in the heart of Chicago, is a diverse community dedicated to educating young men and women for lives of faith, love, service and leadership.