College Scholarship and Funding

Money Sources

• Grants-Gifts-Do not need to be repaid
• Work Study- job on campus
• Student Loans-low interest loans that must be repaid
• These are Federal financed programs.  You will want to start by filling out a FAFSA between January and February of your senior year.  Parents need to complete their tax return before you can complete the FAFSA.  Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov Funding is determined on a need and "First come, first serve" basis.

Types of Scholarships

• Academic-Determined by an index score
• Departmental-Expertise in a certain college discipline
• Leadership- Involvement in extracurricular activities at the high school and/or college level
• Community Service- Requires documented record of service hours
• Sports (NCAA requirements)- Must register with the NCAA Clearinghouse www.ncaa.org

Private Funding Sources

• Check the internet for scholarships
• Check for scholarships for dependants of employees
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs
• Monthly payment plans from colleges

Scholarship Information

• 90% of all scholarship money comes from universities and colleges.  They should be first priority.
• Do a Choices scholarship search
• Check on the internet and register with FASTWEB
• Write a resume which includes all community service, leadership experience, and extra-curricular activities
• Get three letters of recommendation
• Always be neat and accurate