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SCHOLARSHIPS/FINANCIAL AID
- What are the types of financial aid?
- Students can be awarded local, state, and federal grants and scholarships. The two types of scholarships are merit-based and need-based.
- When can a student start searching for scholarships?
- Students should check with counselors for scholarships. There are several writing/essay opportunities for underclassmen. Students can begin searching scholarships at www.fastweb.com
- Where should a student/parent look for scholarship assistance?
- The counselors at the high school will provide a listing of local, state, and federal scholarship opportunities. It is recommended for students and parents to check with local service clubs, churches, and places of employment.
Questions Specific to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- What is the official website for the FAFSA?
- Should a student/parent pay for assistance with the FAFSA form?
- Individuals should never pay for assistance with the form. Financial aid offices will assist students/parents. The College Access Program offers workshops in the spring. Individuals can also attend College Goal Sunday on February 14 at 2:00 at various locations across the state.
- When can a student/parent complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid?
- A student cannot submit the FAFSA until January 1 of the senior year.
- Does the student/parent need to have tax forms completed prior to completing the form?
- If taxes are not completed, an individual can estimate on the FAFSA and update the form once taxes are completed.
- Is there a deadline for completing the FAFSA Form?
- Students/Parents need to pay attention to the deadline for the college for FAFSA completion. Check the college website for this deadline or contact the financial aid office.
- Who needs to have a Personal Identification Number (PIN)?
- The student and at least one parent need to register for a PIN. This can be done prior to January 1.
ACT/SAT
- When should a student take the ACT?
- It is recommended for a student to take the ACT in the spring of the junior year.
- Does a student need to take the writing portion of the ACT?
- It is recommended the student take the writing portion at least one time. A student needs to know if the college requires the writing portion of the test for admission. Visit the website (www.actstudent.org), click on writing test option.
CAREERS/MAJORS
- Does a student need to decide a major before applying to college?
- College is a time to explore. In most cases, a student can go until the sophomore year before choosing a major. Each college is different so ask an admissions counselor while on a campus visit if undecided.
COLLEGE APPLICATIONS
- How many colleges should a student apply to and when should the student apply?
- Students should apply to at least two colleges in case they are not accepted into the first choice. It is also important not to apply to too many colleges as it can make the final decision more difficult. Even though a college looks “perfect” from the college catalogue or the website, make sure to visit.
- When should a student visit a college campus?
- Students should utilize all types of opportunities to visit a college campus such as sporting/cultural events, visiting with a sibling/parent, summer programs, and class trips. Schools typically allow students to take college visits in the junior and senior year. Definitely do not wait to do it all in the senior year as schedules, activities, classes, and weather can impact the visit.
- Should a student apply to a college based solely on the cost of the college?
- The simple answer is no. Even though the college might have the higher initial cost, the financial aid awarded may lower the cost below those of other colleges.
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