Money shouldn’t be the barrier to your future.
SO WHAT IS A SCHOLARSHIP YOU MAY BE ASKING?
A scholarship is FREE money for college that you do not have to pay back.
They can come from colleges, local community groups, private organizations, or national programs.
There are multiple types of scholarships available to students, here are a few:
Merit Based:
Awarded for academics, leadership, athletics, or special talents
Needs Based
Awarded based on financial need.
Community/Local Scholarships
Often provided by local businesses, civics groups, or foundations
Special Interest Scholarship
For specific majors, career goals, cultural heritage or personal experiences.
HOW TO FIND THEM
1. Our Scholarship & Fafsa page has MANY resources for you to explore.
2.Your college’s financial-aid office (many have automatic merit awards when you apply).
3. Online Searches
TIPS FOR APPLYING
Start searching early in senior year—some deadlines are in the fall.
Keep a list of deadlines and submit applications on time.
Write a strong personal statement—it can often be reused with small tweaks.
Apply for many scholarships, even small ones—they add up!
FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID (FAFSA)
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a form completed by current and prospective college students
in the United States to determine their eligibility for student financial aid.
Key Details:
Opens each year on October 1
(changes coming soon for simplified FAFSA—keep an eye on updates).
Available at: https://studentaid.gov
You’ll need:
1. Your and your parent/guardian’s Social Security numbers
2. Your and your parent/guardian’s tax returns/W-2s (usually from two years prior)
3. An FSA ID for both you and your parent/guardian (create at https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/)
Why It’s Important:
Many scholarships and state aid programs require a completed FAFSA.
Some colleges use FAFSA to award their own institutional grants.
Filing early can increase your chances of getting aid before funds run out.
Pro Tips* File FAFSA as soon as it opens to maximize opportunities.
*Double-check deadlines: Federal, state, and individual colleges often have different priority dates.
*Don’t assume you won’t qualify–most families receive some aid.
*Be cautious of scams: FAFSA is always free to complete.
*Ask your counselor for help if you get stuck.
You can find more information on our WEBSITE
MOST COLLEGE’S REQUIRE THE FAFSA TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THEIR SCHOLARSHIPS, SO IT IS HELPFUL TO GET IT COMPLETED.
THIS APPLICATION WILL TELL YOU IF YOU QUALIFY FOR THE FOLLOWING:
Federal Grants (like the Pell Grant)
What it is: Free money from the federal government to help pay for college
Key point: You do not have to pay it back.
Who gets it: Awarded based on financial need (determined by FAFSA).
Work-Study Programs
What it is: A federal program that gives students part-time jobs on or near campus to help pay for college costs.
Key point: You earn money while you’re in school—usually limited to a set number of hours each week.
Who gets it: Awarded based on financial need and availability at your college.
Low-Interest Federal Student Loans
What it is: Money borrowed from the federal government to pay for tuition, books, and other expenses.
Key point: Must be repaid after graduation, but usually with lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans.
Types: Includes Direct Subsidized Loans (no interest while in school) and Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
State and School-Based Aid Programs
What it is: Grants, scholarships, and other assistance provided by your state or the college you attend.
Key point: Often awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, or other criteria (like major or residency).
Examples: State tuition assistance, merit scholarships from your college, or special program grants.
