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SDUHSD College & Career Night

Welcome!

Welcome!

We are pleased to offer College and Career Resources to all grade levels. In addition to the college and career events hosted at each high school, SDUHSD hosts an annual College & Career Night each spring.
This event provides direct access to college representatives and information about careers to all students in the San Dieguito Union High School District. 
 
The 2026 SDUHSD College and Career Night is an opportunity for students and parents to learn in-depth information about specific post-secondary options.  The information is most relevant to 11th-grade students, but all SDUHSD high school students are welcome.   The event will include a college and career fair, and post-secondary planning information sessions, including specific sessions for students receiving special education services.  This event is offered in partnership with the Western Association of College Admissions Counselors (WACAC) and the Carlsbad Unified School District (CUSD).
 
 
The 13th Annual SDUHSD College and Career Night will be held on
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 4:00 pm -7:00 pm.
 
College and Career Fair 4:30 pm -6:30 pm
Information Sessions* 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
*Advanced Registration Required
 
2026 C+C night
 
 
EVENT LOCATION:
MiraCosta College San Elijo Campus
3333 Manchester Ave Cardiff, CA 92007
 
(Students and families are free to attend)
 
A post-secondary transition resource fair for families and students in a specialized program* will be available.
Whether a student is working towards a certificate of completion, on the alternative pathway to a diploma, or currently in our COAST program, this section will feature transition information from which ALL students may benefit. Providing information on adult support, employment, and educational options available to students.
Vendors include the San Diego Regional Center, DOR, inclusive post-secondary education options, tailored day services, social recreation, and so much more!
 
Attending Programs

Attending Programs

Information Sessions

Information Sessions

2026 College and Career Night Infographic

*Sessions are designed for families and students in a specialized education program.

1

4:00 PM - 4:50 PM

Exploring Specialized Programs for Students with Disabilities

University of Denver

This session is specifically designed for families supporting students currently utilizing IEP and 504 plans. We will discuss how to translate these K-12 supports into the college environment, where the legal landscape shifts from IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

UC/CSU Admissions

San Diego State, UC San Diego

This session clarifies the distinct application pathways for California's public university systems, highlighting the holistic "Comprehensive Review" used by the University of California and the new 2026 Direct Admission opportunities for California State University campuses. Students and parents will walk away with a clear understanding of A-G requirements, GPA thresholds, and strategies for selecting the best-fit system for their academic and career goals.

Early College Credit Opportunities

MiraCosta College

This session explores how students can earn transferable college credits while still in high school through dual enrollment and credit by exam. Learn how these opportunities can shorten time to degree completion and reduce the overall cost of higher education.

Career Pathway Opportunities

CUSD, SDUHSD, MiraCosta TCI, Cornish, Seattle Univ.

This session explores how Career Technical Education (CTE) sequences provide students with hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications. Presenters will highlight high-growth career sectors and local professional programs that lead to high-demand careers.

* Specialized Education Program

Inclusive Post Secondary Education: A Comprehensive Model for Higher Education Inclusion and Independent Living

Pathway UCLA, CA Center for Inclusive College, TAFT TIL

This session introduces the IPSE model, which is designed to open university and college doors to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learn about inclusive programs like TAFT TIL and UCLA Pathway that provide life-skills and academic opportunities on a college campus.

2

5:00 PM - 5:50 PM

Maximizing Transfer Opportunities Through MiraCosta College

MiraCosta Transfer Counselors

This session introduces the various pathways to a guaranteed admission at California's public universities. Discover the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT), Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG), and the NEW CSU Transfer Success Pathway and UC Dual Admission guaranteed programs.

SDUHSD/ CUSD Senior Panel

Local Senior Students

Gain firsthand insights from a panel of current seniors who have successfully navigated the college application journey. These students will share their personal experiences on managing deadlines, writing essays, and finding their best-fit schools.

The Evolving Role of Standardized Testing in Admissions

Univ. of Tennessee, Washington State Univ.

Clarifying the role of the SAT and ACT in the current college admission landscape. Presenters will discuss the differences between test-optional, test-blind, and test-required policies and how to decide if testing should be a part of your student's application strategy.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

University of San Diego Financial Aid

This session covers the essential steps for completing the 2026-27 FAFSA and CA Dream Act Application. Families will learn how to identify merit-based aid, secure grants, and navigate the scholarship application process to make college more affordable.

From Selection to Admission: Finding Quality Undergraduate Business Programs and Building a Competitive Application

Seton Hall University

A deep dive into the diverse world of undergraduate business education. Presenters will discuss different degree types, concentrations, and the importance of AACSB accreditation when selecting the best-fit program for your career goals.

* Specialized Education Program

Charting the Course: A Unified Guide to Self-Determination, Career Readiness, and Support for Inclusive Higher Education

College Living Experience, NeuroNav

Bridging the gap between academic inclusion for students with disabilities and long-term economic independence. This session focuses on career readiness, self-determination, and independent living skills for students navigating inclusive education pathways.

3

6:00 PM - 6:50 PM

Summer of Success

This session provides a roadmap for using the summer months to jumpstart the college application process. Families will learn how to finalize college lists, brainstorm impactful application essays, and organize timelines to reduce stress during the senior year.

UC/CSU Admissions (Repeat)

This session breaks down the application pathways for California's public university systems, highlighting the holistic "Comprehensive Review" used by the University of California and the new 2026 Direct Admission opportunities for California State University campuses. Gain the clarity you need to choose the best system for your academic and career goals.

Academic and Career Pathways at MiraCosta College

MiraCosta College- Student Accessibility Services and Academic and Career Pathways

This session introduces MiraCosta's Academic and Career Pathways (ACPs), which group related majors to provide students with a clear roadmap for degrees, certificates, and transfer. Families will also learn how Student Accessibility Services (SAS) ensures equitable access through personalized academic accommodations, counseling, and specialized support designed for students with diverse learning needs.

Military Options After High School: Finding the Path that Fits You

Marines, Navy, Air Force Academy, ROTC

This session provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse entry points into military service, comparing the direct enlistment path with leadership-focused opportunities like ROTC scholarships and the highly selective Federal Service Academies. Students and parents will learn about the unique benefits of each branch—including the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force—and how these pathways can fund a college education while launching a high-impact career.

* Specialized Education Program

Special Needs Planning 101: Everything You Need to Know

Special Needs Planning Institute

The Beginners Guide to Special Needs Planning. A comprehensive beginner's guide to everything you need to know about special needs planning.

This event is sponsored by the San Dieguito Union High School District, serving the students of Canyon Crest Academy, La Costa Canyon, San Dieguito Academy, Sunset, and Torrey Pines High School.
 
SDUHSD Counselors organize and co-present the event and are proud to work collaboratively to support the goals of all students.