Kathleen High School students have a particularly exciting opportunity at their fingertips – if we do say so, ourselves. Kathleen High is the first school in Polk County to join forces with USF as a part of their “Guaranteed Admissions Pathway Program”.

Nine schools across Tampa Bay were chosen with an expansion this year to Polk County as well as three other counties across the state. Polk County Public Schools states that: “Schools were chosen based on Title 1 status, percentage of minority and economically disadvantaged students, and previous college and career counselor engagement with USF’s Office of Admissions.”

USF has offered programs such as this to many schools over the past year and sets a standard for high schoolers in order to qualify for the program. According to Polk County Public Schools, the criteria are as follows: “a 3.7 recalculated GPA with a 1100 SAT or 22 ACT.” The criteria are somewhat fluid, though as lower test scores will be considered as long as the GPA is high and vice versa.

Those who meet the criteria and get accepted into the program will have access to over 200 Majors and Concentrations, and the choice between one of USF’s three campuses. Enrollment via this program will include Summer or Fall admission and eligibility for the History of Achievement Scholarship – a $2,000 academic award.

Those interested in applying may do so until Nov. 1. Questions regarding the program may be directed to USF via email or phone.