Student Preparation
BE PREPARED!
PREPARATION
1. Use the Malcolm Bernard HBCU Search Tool
The HBCU SEARCH tool on our website helps you find the right school before and during the fair:
- Search by State or Popular Majors
- Filter by Minimum GPA, SAT/ACT and Scholarship Requirements
- See who is offering On-Site Admissions and Application Fee Waivers
- Fair Participation - what fairs will an HBCU attend
2. Prepare Your Questions
Be ready with questions to ask the college reps that match your goals. Here are some sample questions:- What are your academic majors?
- I am a senior and have my SAT/ACT scores, transcript, grade point average and completed application. Can you waive my application fee?
- What scholarships are available?
- What is an average financial aid package at your school?
- What academic support services do you offer such as free tutoring?
- What student activities (sports, clubs, band, organizations, radio/TV, newspaper, etc.) do you offer?
- How many students are currently enrolled? What is the demographic makeup? How many live on campus?
- Do you assign faculty advisors?
- How safe is your campus?
- What partnerships do you have with employers for student internships and job opportunities?
- How can I arrange a campus tour?
REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
1. Pick an HBCU Fair
Identify the day and location to attend a fair. Get excited and start planning how to make the most of your time while there. The fair is offered to students FREE of charge.
2. Register Online:
ALL students - high school juniors, seniors and transfer students, even those attending with a school or community group, must register individually. It's quick and easy—use your cell phone or any electronic device to register on our Student Registration page. Click on the General Registration button for the fair that you will attend. Register early to explore your options and be ready for the fair.3. Save Your Confirmation:
Once you register, you'll receive a confirmation email with a barcode to gain entry to the fair. Take a screenshot of your barcode to have it ready when you arrive for quick and easy access to the fair and for scanning by HBCU representatives.4. Matchmaking Tool
When you register for the fair, you'll be able to select preferences like college size, geographic region, majors, and more. This is an enhanced tool that will also allow the colleges to see who you are and share information with you about their programs before attending the fair.Before the fair, you'll also receive email(s) listing HBCUs that match your interests—use this to help prioritize which schools to visit at the fair.
ON-SITE ADMISSION & FEE WAIVER
Seniors—this is your chance for on-site admissions and to potentially secure scholarships:1. Complete Your Application:
Before attending the fair, complete your application, including any essays and other required documents. You can find application requirements on each school's website through the links available in the HBCU SEARCH Tool.2. Bring Your Application Documents:
- Official, sealed transcripts from your school counselor
- Your completed college application
- SAT/ACT test scores
3. Application Completion at the Fair:
If you haven't completed your applications beforehand, don't worry—some schools will have paper applications available for you to complete during the fair. It will be contingent upon time available so we do encourage all students to come prepared with application requirements.By preparing ahead, using our HBCU SEARCH Tool, and coming equipped with your materials, you’ll make the most out of your experience at the Malcolm Bernard HBCU College Fair!
WHAT TO BRING
Seniors:
- Bring 10-12 copies of your transcripts, as most admissions reps will review unofficial copies.
- Letters of recommendation.
- A document highlighting a list of extracurricular activities and volunteerism.
Juniors & Transfer Students:
- Bring copies of your transcripts so that reps can help answer your questions about college readiness and eligibility.
