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Crofton High School
Future Planning Guide
2015-‐16
Future
Ahead
]
Post High Options
þ Career Planning
þ College Selection
Scholarships
Financial Aid
þ
þ
þ
2
Table of Contents
Future Planning-‐Get Headed in the Right Direction -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 3
§ Military & Apprenticeship -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 3
§ Job Market & 2-‐Year College/Tech School -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 4
§ Military Academy & 4-‐Year College or University -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 5
Chart Your Course by Career Planning -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 6
College Planning Calendar -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 7
Senior Guidance Checklist -‐ -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 9
What is at Risk? Today’s Decision Affect Tomorrow! -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 10
How to Choose a College -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 11
Types of Institutions -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 13
Admission Requirements-‐UNL Example -‐ -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 14
Applying to College -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 15
How to Make the Most of a College Visit -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 16
How Do I Make the Most of My Application Essay? -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 17
How to Make a Great Impression-‐-‐The Activities Resume -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 18
Sample CHS Request for Transcript -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 21
NCAA & NAIA Student-‐Athlete Info -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 22
College Entrance Tests -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 23
College Testing Schedule -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 23-‐24
General Scholarship Information -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 25
Sources of Scholarship/Financial Aid Information -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 26
Financial Aid Information -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 27
Types of State and Federal Aid -‐ -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 28
Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation Scholarship -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 31
Recommended Websites -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 32
Glossary of College Terms -‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐-‐ 33
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This book is provided with gratitude to Millard Public Schools and Dubuque Senior High School.
Get Headed in the Right Direction
Do you want to go into the MILITARY?
Talk with friends and family members and research each branch of the military on the Internet. Once you’ve narrowed your preferences, your counselor can help you contact recruiters in the fall of your senior year at the very latest. Recruiter phone numbers are also located in the blue pages of the phone book under government listings.
Review your ASVAB scores to determine your skill level in various areas. Work with your counselor. S/he can help you with this process.
Do you want to do an APPRENTICESHIP? Look up individual programs (electrical, carpentry, etc.) in the yellow pages of the phone book under Apprenticeship Programs and /or Labor Organizations. Call the appropriate program and make an appointment to investigate what they have to offer. Job shadowing in the career field is an excellent way to determine if it is a good ‘fit’ for your skills and personality. Your counselor can help you with arranging job shadow opportunities and getting release time from school to job shadow. Just know that if you have an attendance issue, it isn’t likely that the school will let you out for these opportunities! Just like it is critically important that you show up for work daily and on time, the same is true of your school attendance.
2 Yr. College or Tech.
Appren
ticeship or Jo
b Market
Military Academy Military
4 Yr. College or Un.
4
Do you want to go into the JOB MARKET? Investigate different careers available without post-‐secondary education. Make an appointment with the counselor to review your interest inventory. Visit web sites such as:
§ http://www.omaha.com (Omaha World Herald classifieds-‐click on “jobs”)
§ http://www.dol.nebraska.gov (Nebraska Workforce Development)
§ http://www.rileyguide.com/careers/index.shtml (Riley Guide Career Index -‐ provides career information)
§ http://www.jobbank.com (America’s Job Bank -‐ lists state job service job listings.)
§ http://www.careerlink.com (Nebraska Career-‐Link)
§ http://www.bls.gov/oco (Occupational Outlook Handbook)
§ http://www.onetonline.org (Career exploration and job analysis)
§ http://www.acinet.org (America’s Career Information Network) Do you want to attend a 2-‐YEAR OR TECH SCHOOL? A 2-‐Year or Technical College can bring an excellent return on your investment! Tuition is typically significantly less and you get into the work force sooner, which means a paycheck sooner, and less money spent on tuition, room and board. Because of the savings you will enjoy, it may be even more important to log onto www.educationquest.org to fill out a preliminary FAFSA form and discuss finances with your parents/ guardians.
Investigate career and college options online and in the Guidance Office. Make appointments and visit several college campuses that offer your program of study. Attend the Knox County College Fair and potentially a regional College Fair. (Remember to register for a barcode at www.educationquest.org to make college fairs go more smoothly.)
Meet with college representatives at the high school whenever possible. Several programs have waiting lists so you want to get applied early so you can start on your timeline and not wait. Also, take advantage of college events featuring your programs of interest.
The ACT isn’t necessary for admission to most 2-‐year schools but if you have taken at least Algebra 2 and feel well prepared, you may want to take it anyway. A good ACT score gives you options and may also be helpful with scholarship applications.
Letters of recommendation likely won’t be needed for college admission but you will still need them for most scholarships. Talk to your counselor. Help her get to know you so she can write informed letters of recommendation. ‘Earn’ the caliber of letter you want to receive!
Give teachers 2-‐3 weeks to write letters of recommendation. Give him/her your résumé to assist with the process. Write a thank you for letters. This goes above and beyond what they are contracted to do. Be considerate and appreciative!
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Do you want to attend a MILITARY ACADEMY? Admission to US military academies is highly competitive. Begin your file with Nebraska senators and representative by contacting their offices.
Submit cards to selected service academies to begin your file with them. Visit an academy site if possible. Summer camps are offered for students between their junior and senior year.
Check online for applications: ▪ http://www.usma.edu/ (United States Military Academy – West Point)
▪ http://www.usafa.af.mil (United States Air Force Academy)
▪ http://www.usna.edu (United States Naval Academy)
Attend an All Academy Day to learn more about the application process and visit with academy representatives. Take the ACT and/or SAT and send scores to your senators and representative.
Turn in all applications by deadlines. Selection committees will evaluate all applicants via an application and likely a personal interview.
Do you want to attend a 4 -‐ YEAR COLLEGE or UNIVERSITY? Investigate career and college options online and in the Guidance Office. Visit several college campuses and take notes on your visits. Attend the Knox County College Fair and potentially a regional College Fair. (Remember to register for a barcode at www.educationquest.org to make college fairs go more smoothly.)
Meet with college representatives at the high school whenever possible. Talk to your counselor. Help her get to know you so she can write informed letters of recommendation. ‘Earn’ the caliber of letter you want to receive!
Give teachers 2-‐3 weeks to write letters of recommendation. Give him/her your résumé to assist with the process. Write a thank you for letters. This goes above and beyond what they are contracted to do. Be considerate and appreciative!
Register for ACT and/or SAT. Plan to take the test at least once your junior year, for sure in October of your senior year (September would be good too!) and no later than December of your senior year.
Visit the nearest EducationQuest Foundation at Rockbrook Village (108th and Center in Omaha or in Kearney or Lincoln) for financial aid information. Log onto www.educationquest.org. Fill out a preliminary FAFSA form and discuss finances with your parents/ guardians.
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Chart Your Course by Career Planning Before you decide on a post-‐secondary path, you should investigate potential career options. Things to especially consider are your interest in a specific career, your aptitude for that career and the job market for that career in the future. For instance, the U.S. Department of Labor predicts that only 20% of the careers in the first quarter of the 21st century will require a four year college degree and that 65% of potential careers will require post secondary education of two years or less. You can prepare for this job marketplace in a variety of ways:
✦ Network with parents and adult friends to learn more about the current job market.
✦ Take interest inventories. Ask your counselor about options. ✦ Participate in career area technology and/or career days. ✦ Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). ✦ Choose high school courses to investigate a variety of career possibilities. ✦ When possible seek employment in jobs that are potential careers. ✦ Participate in volunteer experiences related to a possible career choice. ✦ Explore careers online.
Career Info. Web Sites
✦ Nebraska Career Connections www.nebraskacareerconnections.org
✦ H3 = High wage, High skill & High demand jobs. H3.ne.gov
✦ A great site to explore interests and career fields MyNextMove.org
✦ Nebraska Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics www.dol.nebraska.gov
✦ America’s Job Bank/Talent Bank www.ajb.dni.us
✦ Nebraska Career Link www.careerlink.com
✦ Hot Jobs www.hotjobs.com
✦ America’s Career Information http://stats.bls.gov
✦ Network America’s Learning Exchange www.alx.org
✦ O’NET http://online.onetcenter.org ✦ America’s Service Locator www.servicelocator.org
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College Planning Calendar Checklist
Junior Year: Fall (August, September & October) ____ Register to take your October or Dec. ACT if your are 4-‐year college bound (or
two-‐year college-‐bound with strong preparation and/or are a good test taker) ____ Sign up for & actively participate in the John Baylor Test Prep program at
school. ____ Talk to your counselor about possibly taking the PSAT in October. ____ Meet with college representatives as they visit your school. ____ Determine whether your courses meet college admission requirements. ____ Take advantage of all opportunities to gain information about colleges and
attend area college planning meetings with your parents/guardians. ____ Discuss college plans with parents, including financial needs, estimated costs,
etc. ____ Visit college websites and request information if you are interested. ____ Create/Update your college Activities Résumé.
Winter (November, December & January) ____ Sign up for & actively participate in the John Baylor Program for ACT prep. ____ Schedule individual parent conferences with your counselor to discuss future goals. ____ Utilize resources in the Guidance Office. ____ Register for and take the ACT and/or SAT I and SAT II.
Spring (February, March & April) ____ Investigate summer experiences, including summer school, and college
sponsored workshops. ____ Begin scholarship search. ____ Select appropriate senior year courses to meet college requirements. ____ Visit colleges you might want to attend. ____ Take the ACT/SAT. ____ Register for demanding courses during your senior year.
Summer (May, June & July)
____ Visit colleges of your choice.
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Senior Year:
Fall (August, September & October) * Be sure your bright yellow Crofton Comm. Schools Request for Transcript form has been
signed by both you and a parent/guardian and turned in to the Guidance Office. * Schedule a conference with your counselor to confirm your senior class schedule
meets graduation requirements and to discuss career goals. * Encourage parents/guardians to attend the annual (as of 2014) Parents of
College-‐Bound Jrs./Srs. Meeting and Crofton’s Financial Aid Night. * Determine how you’ll pay for college and what you can realistically afford. * Sign up for and actively participate in the John Baylor Test Prep program. * Register for and prepare to take appropriate college entrance tests, ACT and/or SAT. * Review scholarship options and applications that have fall due dates. Enlist the help
of your parents to help identify scholarship eligibility and review applications. * Attend the Knox County College Fair and possibly area college fairs. * Update your college Activities Résumé. * Visit colleges you might want to attend. * Meet with college representatives as they visit your high school. * Obtain college applications in the Guidance Office or via the Internet. * Allow teachers and/or your counselor 2-‐3 weeks prior to the deadline date to
write your college and scholarship recommendations. Let them know if specific criteria need addressed.
Winter (November, December & January) * Watch for Early Admission Application deadlines. * Obtain financial aid information from your counselor and/or the EducationQuest
Foundation (Offices in Omaha, Lincoln & Kearney or online.) * Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) financial need
analysis form as soon after January 1st as possible. * Obtain scholarship applications. * Attend an area financial aid planning and information night with your parents.
Spring (February, March & April) * Continue to visit campuses if you’re still undecided about a college. * Continue to apply for scholarships. Report to the Guidance Office ALL scholar-‐
ships you have been offered, even those you will not accept. * Reply promptly to colleges. Be sure to meet acceptance deadlines. * Decide on the college to attend and let other schools know that you will not be attending.
Summer (May & June) * Formally request that your final transcript be sent to all colleges or organizations
requiring proof of your graduation. * Remember to write thank you notes to those who helped you along the way.
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Senior Guidance Checklist Ø Senior Review Conference-‐Schedule a 20-‐minute conference with the counselor
to review future plans and assure you are on track to graduate.
Ø Credit Check-‐ It is your responsibility to make sure you are on track to receive your diploma. Below are the Crofton Graduation Requirements:
§ 40 Credits of English to include English 9, 10, 11 & 12 § 30 Credits of Social Science (Am. History, World History & Am Gov.) § 30 Credits of Mathematics to include Algebra I § 30 Credits of Science to include Intro. Physical Science & Biology § 10 Credits of Physical Education § 140 Credits of Electives § 280 Total Credits
Ø Class Rank & GPA check
Ø Transcript Request-‐In order for the school to send out an official transcript, you must complete and return to the Guidance Office a transcript request form (yellow sheet) signed by you and a parent/guardian if you are under 18. When you graduate, you must request final transcript(s) be sent as needed.
Ø Visit the Guidance Office regularly and often, as it is also your post-‐high planning center.
Ø Visit with military and/or college representatives who visit school.
Ø Sign up for ACT and/or SAT testing and have a test interpretation and strategy session with the counselor.
Ø Sign up for and work diligently on a John Baylor Program for ACT test prep.
Ø Visit colleges and be prepared to compare them.
Ø Seek and apply for scholarships and compare financial aid packages.
Ø Determine which financial aid to accept and notify your preferred college of your acceptance prior to their deadline. Notify all other colleges of your decision to go elsewhere.
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What is at Risk?
Today’s Decisions Affect Tomorrow! There is a lot at stake in the years ahead based upon the decisions you make today. A number of professional colleges (Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing, etc.) across the country are instituting admissions standards that take a hard look at individuals with prior alcohol or other drug citations/arrests. ‘Good moral character and reputation’ are often a part of admission standards or qualifications for career certification.
The timing, severity and number of offenses are factors that may play a role in admissions. Many professional colleges and employers also conduct background checks on newly admitted students, students entering clinical rotations or potential employees. Prior alcohol/drug-‐related arrests or citations can be grounds for denying admission, dismissing students from a program or placing restrictions on future progress. Not reporting a prior arrest/citation can be grounds for review or disciplinary action.
Your degree may not be worth as much as you think if you have been convicted of/cited for an alcohol or drug-‐related crime.
Military branches may explore similar consequences!
Drug and alcohol convictions include:
§ Carrying or manufacturing a false ID § Misrepresenting your age to purchase alcohol § Possession of alcohol under the legal age of 21 § Driving under the influence of intoxicants or
controlled substances § Disorderly conduct § Purchasing and/or providing alcohol for minors § Possession and/or use of controlled substances
(i.e. drugs) or drug paraphernalia § Public intoxication
Today, many employers do a
complete background check before making a
final job offer. This
means that if you have an
alcohol or drug-‐related
misdemeanor or felony, you may
be denied a job despite your other accomplishments.
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How to Choose a College... Step 1 -‐ Determine What is Important to You You need to consider what you want out of your college experience and in what type of environment you will feel comfortable. The following offers some suggestions for items that you may want to consider when choosing a college. Put a star by the factors below that are most important to you.
Ø Size of the College and the Classes: Would you like to know everyone on campus or would you prefer to see new faces? Would you be more comfortable in a small class or a class of 300? How do you learn better, in a lecture-‐style class setting or a smaller discussion-‐style setting?
Ø Campus Life: What types of social events are popular on campus? Do the students stay on campus on the weekends? Are there fraternities/sororities? If so, what percent of students join them? Are the athletic events popular and well attended? Are there clubs/organizations on campus that interest you? These are a great way to meet people and strengthen your résumé.
Ø Diversity: Do the students come from Nebraska only or from other states and even other countries? Do they all look like you or is there a mix of ethnic backgrounds? Is there an opportunity to participate in a college or international study exchange and get a taste of even more diversity?
Ø Living Accommodations: Do most of the students live on or off campus? Is there adequate housing available? What are the residence halls like? You might be especially interested in room size, whether they have air conditioning and what the bathroom arrangements are like.
Ø Location: Would you prefer to live in a suburban, urban, or rural setting? In what geographical location do you wish to live? What type of climate do you prefer? How far away from home do you want to go? Remember that you don’t have to go far to establish yourself separate from your high school identity and sometimes it is nice to not have to catch a plane to come home.
Ø Type of Institution: Check out the ‘Types of Institution’ information on page 13 of this booklet. What is the school’s academic calendar? Is it semesters, trimesters, or quarters? Do they have a January-‐Term (aka J-‐Term?)
Ø Academic Programs: If you have a decided major, does the college offer it? Is the department well respected in the discipline? If you are undecided, does the college offer a wide variety of major options?
Ø Academic Standards: What are the GPA requirements? What are the average ACT/SAT scores? Do not be discouraged if the average test scores are above your own scores. Remem-‐ber that is the average, which means there are students both above and below the average.
Ø Cost and Financial Availability: Is the school affordable to you? What is the financial aid package? Do not automatically eliminate a school from your list because of cost. Sometimes the more expensive schools are able to offer a financial aid package that may make it as affordable as a less expensive school.
Ø Length of Time it Will Take to Earn a Degree: Ask about the average number of years students take to earn their degree at the institution. Time costs money!
Ø Facilities that are Available: Do they have computer labs, athletic facilities that are available to non-‐athlete students, library, campus dining halls and other student services to meet your needs?
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Ø Placement Rate and Graduation Rate: What percentage of students graduate? What percentage finds a job in their field? How long did it take to find a job? Do grads get into graduate school? What career placement services do they offer? Are they helpful?
Ø Campus Safety: Is campus security available? What types of security programs are available like safe-‐ride, emergency phones and will campus security assist if your car battery dies?
Step 2 Make a List of Potential Colleges
Based upon the criteria that are most important to you, make a list of the colleges that best fit your requirements.
Ø Do a search online (www.collegeboard.com) -‐ websites such as this one can help you select colleges that match your criteria.
Ø Search the Internet, books, and magazines to find out more about colleges.
Ø Request more information about colleges by visiting their website or by sending in information requests.
Ø Talk to friends, family, and school personnel for information and advice. Speak to alumni from your high school and find out their impressions.
Step 3 -‐ Narrow Your Choices
Determine which of the colleges on your list best fit your criteria and interests.
Ø Read through information and search the colleges’ websites.
Ø Schedule a campus visit at the colleges you have chosen. If a visit is not possible, check out the website for virtual tours you can take. Otherwise, call the Admissions Office and ask a lot of questions.
Step 4 -‐ Apply to Schools that Interest You
You should have narrowed down your list of potential colleges and have an idea of where you would like to attend. Submit an application for each school. Most schools offer online applications as well. Ask if there is any way to have the application fee waived.
Choose several schools that interest you. Include one or two schools that are ‘reaches’ or present an admissions challenge. You should also include a couple of schools that your qualifications match closely. Finally, remember to include one or two schools for which you exceed the qualifications as ‘safety’ schools. Make sure that you would be happy at any of the institutions to which you apply.
After applying you will need to begin focusing on how you will finance your choice. You should continue to search for scholarship and begin to research your financial aid options.
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Types of Institutions
Community Colleges ✤ May offer an associate’s (2 year) degree, certificate or diploma ✤ Specialized occupational preparation ✤ May also be used as preparation for a 4-‐year college and university ✤ Class size is generally small and students are able to receive individual attention ✤ Less expensive Technical Institutes ✤ May offer an associate’s (2 year) degree, certificate or diploma ✤ Preparation for a specific career with specialization in one skill area (medical
technology, business, cosmetology, wind energy, utility line or computer programing as examples)
✤ Core classes are career specific and few general education classes are required
Liberal Arts Colleges ✤ Offer undergraduate students a bachelor’s (4 year) or associate’s (2 year) degree ✤ Broad base of courses available (social sciences, humanities, sciences, business, etc.) ✤ Courses of study begin with general education requirements; students choose at least
one area of in-‐depth study to be their major ✤ Generally smaller than universities with smaller class sizes ✤ Focus is on graduating on-‐time
Universities ✤ Offer several levels of degrees (bachelor’s, master’s & doctoral) ✤ Includes liberal arts colleges as well as professional colleges and graduate programs ✤ Divided into several departments, or “colleges” such as the College of Business or the
College of Education ✤ Wide variety of academic programs available ✤ Generally, universities are larger than liberal arts colleges (although there are smaller
universities) with larger classes ✤ Classes often taught in lecture format and may be taught by graduate assistants
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University of Nebraska-‐Lincoln Minimum Admissions Core Course Requirements
There are 16 units of required academic courses required for admission. A unit is described as a Carnegie unit—one year of high school study or a semester or quarter of college coursework.
Mathematics 4 Algebra, algebra II and geometry are required for students seeking
admission, and one additional unit that builds on a knowledge of algebra.
Social Sciences 3 One unit drawn from American and/or world history; one additional unit drawn from history, American government and/or geography; and a third unit drawn from any social science discipline.
Natural 3 At least two units selected from biology, chemistry, Sciences physics, and earth sciences. One of the above units must include
laboratory instruction.
Foreign Language
2 Both units must be in the same language. Students who are unable to take two years of foreign language in high school may still qualify for admission. * Click for more information on foreign language requirements in various UNL degree programs.
See which Nebraska High School classes count toward these core course requirements, or find information on removing core course deficiencies.
Performance Requirements In addition to meeting the above core course requirements, traditional freshmen students seeking admission to the University should:
✦ be ranked in the upper one-‐half of their high school class, OR ✦ have received an ACT composite score of 20 or higher*, OR ✦ have received a SAT total score (Critical Reading and Math only) of 950 or higher*.
*Freshman applicants under 23 years of age are required to submit an ACT or SAT score. The UNL ACT code is 2482. UNL’s SAT code is 6877.
Category Units Requirements
English 4 All units must include intensive reading and writing experiences.
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Applying to College
1. Get an Application: Some applications are available in the Guidance Office but most will be easily accessible online. More and more colleges prefer online applications. Some will even waive application fees in return for online applications. REMINDER: Your official transcript often cannot be sent online. You need to ask the counselor and sign a request form to have a transcript mailed to all colleges to which you are applying.
2. Check the Admissions Requirements: Check to make sure you meet the admissions requirements in terms of number of high school credits and courses, qualifying class rank/percentage, GPA, ACT/SAT score requirements and application deadlines.
3. Fill out all Applications CAREFULLY: Your application is your opportunity to make an impression on the admissions committee. BE PROUD OF WHAT YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED. Make sure your application is NEAT and ERROR FREE. TYPE your application whenever possible and if not, use BLACK OR BLUE INK. It is often helpful to print off a hardcopy to write in your answers before preparing your final application.
Remember that this is the first impression you are making as a student/individual. You only have one opportunity to make a first impression! Double check your application and have someone else look over it.
Make sure you include all that the college is asking for when you send it, including the application fee. Most colleges charge anywhere from $25 to $100.
4. Submit a Signed (by you and a parent/guardian) Transcript Release: You must complete this form (neon yellow sheet) for an official copy of your transcript to be sent.
5. Compare/Rank Your Top Colleges (See next page.)
6. WAIT: Now all you have to do is wait to hear from the college(s) to which you have applied. If you have not heard from them within six weeks, call the Admissions Office to verify the status of your application. If you have problems, check with the counselor.
TIP: MAKE COPIES OF ALL MATERIALS YOU SUBMIT! MAKE A NOTE OF THE DATE YOU SENT OR SUBMITTED ON EACH APPLICATION.
Develop a file or a database for each college so your records will be organized and accessible. You should hear back within a few weeks. The response you receive from a college may range from unqualified admittance to rejection of your application. There are also several types of ‘qualified admittance’. Be sure and complete all follow-‐through steps before their deadlines!
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How to Make the Most of a College Visit (or Conversation with a College Rep)
Good questions to ask: ✦ What types of financial aid are available? Most colleges will offer scholarships, loans,
grants, and work-‐study jobs. ✦ What are my housing options? (Determine what you prefer: living at home, residence
hall, apartment, sorority/fraternity...) ✦ What student activities are most students involved in? If you have specific interests, ask
about student government, sports (intramural and collegiate), music, theatre, art, publications, Greek life (fraternities & sororities) and etc. Remember that it is possibly even more important to build your college resume than it was building your high school resume!
✦ How safe is the area? Colleges are required to submit crime statistics. You can check this out yourself at http://ope.ed.gov/security/Index.aspx.
✦ How effective is the school’s job placement, career planning and counseling services? ✦ What are the average class sizes? Ask this for the entire freshman class but also for large
lecture courses and smaller classes as well.
✦ How is parking? Is it free or paid permit only? If you don’t bring a car, is other transportation available?
Good things to do:
✦ Schedule college visits at least two weeks in advance or more at a selective school as they may wish to schedule an admissions interview.
✦ Prepare a list of specific questions to ask during your visit. Don’t waste time asking questions you can get the information for online.
✦ Take your parents or guardians along. They will think to ask things you may forget.
✦ BE ON TIME! If you will be late or have to postpone, call the college. ✦ Complete a campus tour. Take special note of academic buildings that you will be
spending most of your time in, residence halls, cafeteria and the ‘feel’ of the campus. Wander around after your visit for a more informal experience.
✦ Sit in on a class if at all possible and ask to eat in the dining hall. ✦ Ask to meet with the staff and students who can tell you more about your potential
major(s). Thank everyone you meet for his or her time! ✦ If you know someone else on campus personally, be sure to talk with him or her.
✦ Ask a LOT of questions! If you do so politely and appreciate the time you are given to get your answers, you come across as interested.
✦ Take notes following your visit. Be sure to record the answers to your most important questions, the way you felt while on campus and etc.
✦ Ask yourself, “Will this school be able to meet my needs academically, socially, economically and intellectually?” and “What can I contribute to this institution?”
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How Do I Make the Most of My Application Essay?
First of all, not all colleges will have admission application essays but most scholarships will so make the most of these opportunities if you get them! This is exactly why Mrs. Koester has posted information on how to write college essays! The time invested in these essays can help insure your admission or increase the amount of scholarship you receive.
Think about the purposes the essay serves. Obviously, one purpose is to provide a sample of the quality of your writing. Since colleges place a premium on strong writing skills, they will look for a mastery of mechanics as well as fluency and originality. If these are your strengths, take this opportunity to shine! If they aren’t your strongest suits, be sure to get advice from others throughout the process. A two-‐ or three-‐page essay gives a college selection committee a taste of the maturity of your thinking and writing and of your readiness for a competitive liberal arts program.
A second reason for the essay is for you to share something of yourself that may not be reflected in the rest of your application-‐-‐something that has shaped your perspective or challenged your beliefs. Or it may show how you see yourself and your place in a community. These qualities are important for admission committees to know when they are deciding on applicants. The essay allows the committee to look beyond the numbers and statistics and gives them a glimpse of your creativity and substance.
There is no formula for a ‘perfect’ essay, but it’s one of the most carefully considered, influential and revealing pieces of your application. Choose your topic thoughtfully. Try out a few topics and see which one feels the most natural to you, and closest to your own ‘voice.’ Don’t pick a topic that is too broad and impersonal. Structure your material well and be concise; make a point to get to the point. Write and rewrite!
Make sure that you have others look over the essay for constructive criticism and revisions. The essay is the one piece of the application that you have full control over-‐-‐use it to your advantage!
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How to Make a Great Impression-‐-‐The College Resume
The college resume is a snapshot of your high school career. Include everything that you have been involved in and be specific (Did you hold a leadership position, help create a program/project, earn a letter, etc.?) Your resume will be given to people whom you ask to write letters of recommendation for you and for many scholarship applications. It is best you do not assume that these people already know all of your achievements and activities. Describe to them what makes you a unique person and how you have contributed to and been shaped by your high school experience. This is not the time to be modest but remember that there is a big difference between confident and being cocky! Include the length of time and dates of your participation in all activities.
For a resume head-‐start, complete as much of the information below as you know and/or feel confident including. Thanks to Ashley Fiedler for sharing her example on the next two pages!
Name _____________________________ GPA _______ Class Rank _______
ACT Scores: ____ Composite ____ English ____ Math ____ Science ____ Reading
SAT Scores (If Applicable): _____ Critical Reading _____ Math _____ Writing
School Activities (specify leadership & awards):
➡ Clubs –
➡ Performing Arts –
➡ Athletics -‐Other Awards & Honors:
Community Activities/Volunteering:
Work Experience:
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Sample College Resume (Thanks, Quinn, for sharing! Additional examples are available on the school website.)
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21
Crofton Community Schools Request for Transcript
Your transcript is your high school record and cannot be released without permission of your parent/guardian or yourself if/once you are 18. By signing this form, you are granting permission to Crofton Community Schools (CCS) to release your/your child’s transcript to the schools or organizations listed below. This form will serve as a tracking log and thus it is understood that signatures give permission to send to any and all listed below or on the back of this form. IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO GIVE BLANKET PERMISSION, DO NOT SIGN THIS FORM. RATHER HAVE INDIVIDUAL TRANSCRIPT REQUEST FORMS COMPLETED WITH EACH REQUEST. Transcripts will be sent only upon written (electronic request included) request.
Students under the age of 18 are required by law to have a parent/guardian signature.
OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS MUST BE SENT DIRECTLY FROM CCS TO COLLEGES AND ORGANIZATIONS
PLEASE PRINT
Student Name _____________________________ Graduation Year _____________
I HEREBY GRANT FULL PERMISSION TO CCS TO RELEASE MY/MY CHILD’S TRANSCRIPT TO ANY AND ALL INSTITUTIONS AND ORGANIZATIONS LISTED BELOW OR ON THE REVERSE OF THIS FORM.
________________________________ _____________________________ _________ Parent/Guardian Signature Student Signature Date
Request Transcript To Type Request Date Distributed Date
___________________________ Official/ Unoff. ___________ Mailed/ Picked Up ______ ___________________________ Official/ Unoff. ___________ Mailed/ Picked Up ______
___________________________ Official/ Unoff. ___________ Mailed/ Picked Up ______ ___________________________ Official/ Unoff. ___________ Mailed/ Picked Up ______
___________________________ Official/ Unoff. ___________ Mailed/ Picked Up ______
___________________________ Official/ Unoff. ___________ Mailed/ Picked Up ______ ___________________________ Official/ Unoff. ___________ Mailed/ Picked Up ______
SAMPLE
ORIGINAL AVAILABLE IN
THE GUIDANCE OFFICE AN
D
PRINTED O
N NEON YELLO
W
PAPER.
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COLLEGE-‐BOUND ATHLETES: IT IS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE AWARE THAT YOUR COURSE SELECTION, GPA IN CORE COURSES AND YOUR ACT SCORE WILL ALL PLAY A FACTOR IN WHETHER OR NOT YOU WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN COLLEGIATE SPORTS. IT IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE TO BE AN ATHLETE ONLY BUT YOU MUST BE A SCHOLAR ATHLETE!
➡ Attention NCAA Division I and II Student-‐Athletes:
Student-‐athletes who wish to participate in NCAA Division Division II or I sports in college MUST BE CERTIFIED by the NCAA Initial-‐Eligibility Center. Log on to http://www.ncaa.org/student-‐athletes/future to learn more about the NCAA requirements for athletes. If you wish to proceed, click on “Student-‐Athlete Registration” during your junior year or early in the first semester of your senior year.
Click here to link to the Crofton school website for more NCAA information.
Don’t delay this process—if you are uncertain about participation in Division I or II it is best to complete this process anyway. Failure to be certified may affect visitations to colleges regarding athletics and college coaches may be reluctant to make commitments to athletes who have not completed the NCAA Initial-‐Eligibility certification. You may register online through the Eligibility Center. Be sure to request transcripts from your counselor. Failure to do so may make you ineligible for NCAA activities.
The NCAA registration fee is $75. Click here to link to a registration checklist.
Also, make sure to list the Eligibility Center (9999) as a report choice on your ACT registration in order to have your ACT scores sent to the NCAA Eligibility Center.
➡ Attention NAIA Division I and II Student-‐Athletes:
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is the governing body for athletic programs at nearly 300 colleges and universities throughout the US and Canada. Nearly 60,000 student-‐athletes participate at NAIA institutions.
Every student who plays in NAIA for the first time must have their eligibility determined through the NAIA Eligibility Center. PlayNAIA.org is the official clearinghouse for NAIA eligibility. This site is also a place where you can potentially connect with coaches and NAIA schools and perhaps connect to thousands of dollars of NAIA athletic scholarships. Click on the NAIA Eligibility Center link for US high school students to begin your registration process and to learn more about eligibility requirements. The fee has been raised to $75 as of August 1, 2015.
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College Entrance Tests
Almost all colleges require tests for admission. Others may use the results for placement in courses or programs. Registration packets for all tests are available in the counseling office.
Types of Tests and Which Test to Take
ACT (American College Test) is used by the vast majority of colleges in the Midwest. It is the primary test used to determine Regents Scholarship winners in the University of Nebraska system (UNL, UNO, and UNK).
SAT is used more extensively by East Coast, West Coast, some southern colleges, and the military academies. Some selective admission colleges may request the SAT II’s that are specific tests in a certain curriculum area. If you are not sure about the appropriate test, ask your counselor or refer to the specific college catalog or a general college handbook.
Important Notes:
1. Research has shown that scores increase in a high percentage of cases when a student retakes the test a second or even a third time. Colleges and scholarship will use your highest set of scores. You have nothing to lose by retaking the test! It is rare but becoming more common for some institutions to ‘Super-‐Score’ and take the best individual subscores from different test dates to combine for your ‘best’ overall composite score.
2. BHS has now started making the entire John Baylor Test Prep. Program available during the school day for seniors. Make the most of this and juniors can participate too!
3. Register early to make it possible to schedule testing as close to your home high school as possible. Check for schools that are SAT test centers.
4. Seniors -‐ If you have not tested for the first time, register for the September date. Consider October and December as retake dates. Senior testing after December is too late for most purposes.
4. Juniors -‐ You are strongly encouraged to take the PSAT in October, and the ACT and/or SAT in the spring or summer before your senior year.
2015-‐2016 ACT Testing Schedule
ACT Test Date Registration Deadline Late Fee Required
September 12, 2015 August 7, 2015 August 8-21, 2015
October 24, 2015 Sept. 18, 2015 Sept. 19-Oct. 2, 2015
December 12, 2015 November 6, 2015 November 7-20, 2015
February 6, 2016 January 8, 2016 January 9-15, 2016
April 9, 2016 March 4, 2016 March 5-18, 2016
June 11, 2016 May 6, 2016 May 7-20, 2016
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2015-‐2016 SAT Testing Schedule
Test Date Tests Offered Regular Reg. Deadline
Late Registration Deadline
Oct. 3, 2015 SAT and Subject Tests Sept. 3, 2015 Sept. 8, 2015
Nov. 7, 2015 SAT and Subject Tests Oct. 9, 2015 Oct. 23, 2015
Dec. 5, 2015 SAT and Subject Tests Nov. 5, 2015 Nov. 20, 2015
Jan. 23, 2016 SAT and Subject Tests Dec. 28, 2015 Jan. 8, 2016
March 5, 2016 SAT Only Feb. 5, 2016 Feb. 19, 2016
May 7, 2016 SAT and Subject Tests April 8, 2016 April 22, 2016
June 4, 2016 SAT and Subject Tests May 5, 2016 May 20, 2016
Online Registration:
Students can register and pay test fees with a credit card by going on-‐line to:
ACT www.actstudent.org
SAT www.collegeboard.com
Use the following code numbers for Crofton High School regardless of where you take the test: 280590 for the ACT & for the SAT.
For test security purposes, you need to upload your photo.
Hints for Testing: • Participate in a test preparation course. The Guidance Department, with hosting
assistance by Ms. Kramer, coordinates the John Baylor Program for ACT testing. SAT prep is also available from John Baylor. See Mrs. K. if you are interested in SAT prep.
• Study the test preparation book provided in the application packet and online. • Use other resources available through the school to sharpen your skills. • Get a good night’s sleep two days before and the night before the test. • Eat a balanced
breakfast. Don’t eat junk! You want something that will last the duration of testing. Don’t rely on caffeine either. It won’t last but being well rested will!
• Arrive early. Don’t forget photo ID and admission ticket. Also, bring your approved calculator, a jacket in case the room is chilly, sharpened pencils, change for a drink and/or snack during break and tissues in case your nose begins to run.
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General Scholarship Information
Other than you or your family paying for your college education, the cost of a college education may be met in three primary ways: federal grants, loans and scholarships. Since financial aid packages are uncertain and are not announced until May of the senior year, it is best to focus attention upon scholarships throughout the senior year and not rely upon financial aid. How to Avoid Scholarship Fraud:
• If you must pay money to get money, it is likely a scam.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. • Spend the time, not your money earning scholarships.
• Never invest more than a postage stamp to get information about scholarships.
• Nobody can guarantee that you will win a scholarship. They can, however, guarantee that you receive money that would likely include the federal program funds you are entitled to and would receive without using their service. That is how they can make a ‘money back’ guarantee! It’s a HOUX so don’t fall victim to it.
• If you’re suspicious of an offer, it’s usually with good reason.
Students and families who suspect that a scholarship program might be a fraud should contact their school’s guidance counselor and/or the following resources:
• FTC Consumer Response Center: www.ftc.gov or call (202)FTC-‐HELP
• National Fraud Information Center: www.fraud.org or call 800.876.7060
• Better Business Bureau: www.bbb.org or call 703.276.0100 • State Attorney General Office: www.ago.ne.gov or call 800.727.6432
Scholarship Types Academic or merit-‐based scholarships are rewards for having certain abilities or talents. Examples include high grades and class rank, test scores at certain levels, or a demonstrated talent in art, music, athletics, drama, or other areas.
Need-‐based scholarships frequently have criteria relative to abilities or talents above; however, the selection may be primarily based upon the financial need of the student.
Four Major Sources of Scholarships • Colleges and Universities (Best source) • Civic, place of worship, parent-‐teacher, and other community groups
• Corporations, labor unions and professional organizations • Military
Note: Never assume that college scholarship applications are automatic. Check with your counselor, or the college scholarship and financial office for application information.
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Sources of Scholarship Financial Aid Info.
Websites: A wealth of information regarding scholarships and financial aid is available via Internet. Good sources of information include:
www.finaid.org www.fastweb.com www.embark.com
The EducationQuest Planning Center provides a FREE local scholarship search available through the EducationQuest Foundation. The closest EducationQuest Planning Center to Bloomfield is in Rockbrook Village, 11031 Elm St., Omaha, NE 68144, 391-‐4033 or checkout www.educationquest.org. Locations are also available in Kearney and Lincoln.
Parental Role in the Scholarship Process Parents can help in the scholarship process by:
1) going online to follow the school’s daily announcements and working with your child to identify potential scholarships announced by the guidance office or available elsewhere.
2) encouraging your student to pick up application forms from the Guidance Office if available there. Mrs. Koester retyped the local scholarships so they are available on the school website so that students can type them out and not have to handwrite or use a typewriter.
3) urging the student to complete and return applications.
4) helping meet scholarship due dates.
Obtaining Scholarship Applications
Any scholarships available through the Guidance Office will be linked to on the school’s website via the Scholarship List with Links & Details that is updated regularly. Be sure to check back at least monthly!
Many scholarship applications are not distributed to the Guidance Office, especially those unique to individual colleges and those sponsored by national organizations. You’ll need to write or call for these scholarship applications.
Other Scholarship Resources ✦ Check with student’s, parent’s and grandparent’s employers for possible scholarship
offerings. ✦ Search websites for local and national scholarships. ✦ Check with your youth organizations and religious organizations for possible scholarship
opportunities.
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Get Connected with Financial Aid
How Do I Know If I Qualify? Or if I should Apply? Determining financial aid eligibility is not easy. The financial aid application forms are fairly comprehensive and take considerable time to process.
A free “College Funding Estimator”, available from EducationQuest at http:// apps.educationquest.org/estimator/20122013/estimator.htm, will help determine whether you might qualify for federal financial aid. The EducationQuest Foundation will process your worksheet and provide the results to you. They are very knowledgeable about all aspects of financial aid, and will assist you in filling out an official financial aid form if you wish. They will also host Financial Aid Nights in the area. Plan to attend one! Also see Internet options to determine financial aid eligibility. Remember, WHEN IN DOUBT-‐ APPLY!!
How To Apply for Financial Aid The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA pronounced ‘faf-‐sa’) will put you into consideration for FEDERAL financial aid and college aid. Occasionally certain colleges will request a supplemental form in addition to the FAFSA. If so, the college will supply the form.
It is in your best interests to submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1st. This cannot be done earlier because you will need your and your parents’/guardians’ tax information. IF YOUR FAMILY TAXES ARE DONE BY A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, SCHEDULE THIS APPOINTMENT AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE EVERY YEAR PRIOR TO YOUR COLLEGE ATTENDANCE!
If your parents do not file tax information until late March, you should file estimated tax information. Do NOT wait until March or April to process a financial aid application. Late applications are the #1 reason for receiving a reduced financial aid package or, quite frequently, receiving NO aid at all.
Every year you attend college, you may file a paper FAFSA copy but electronic filing is preferable. Access the FAFSA at http://www.educationquest.org or http://www.fafsa.ed.gov . Do not mail it or submit it to the processing center before January 1st. When you file the FAFSA, you have the option of indicating which colleges are to receive the analysis. Send the analysis to all colleges you are considering because it is difficult to add colleges later. Be sure to sign the application!
COLLEGES WILL NOT BEGIN ANY FINANCIAL AID CONSIDERATIONS FOR A STUDENT UNLESS THEY HAVE AN APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION ON FILE!
Approximately eight to ten weeks, or sooner if submitted electronically, after you send in your FAFSA application, you will receive the Student Aid Report (SAR.) Save this form (all pages and saved as a .pdf you can attach and send if needed) because you will need to submit it to the college of your choice to accept your aid award.
College financial aid directors have some discretion and options for the financial aid awarded by their institution. If you have any unusual or unique financial situations, or if you wish to appeal the financial aid decision, contact the financial aid department of the college.
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Types of State and Federal Financial Aid Grants (funds that do not need to be paid back)
The Federal Pell Grant (often just referred to as a ‘Pell’ or ‘Pell Grant’) is the grant that provides assistance to the college students with the greatest financial need. Renewal is based upon continued eligibility as determined by a federal eligibility formula and maintenance of satisfactory academic performance. It is necessary to apply each year for the Pell Grant with the FAFSA.
The federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (referred to with the initials SEOG) is awarded to students with high financial need. Renewal standards are similar to the Pell Grant. Each college determines the amount of the grant based on students’ need and availability of money. These funds are limited. Complete your FAFSA early!
College Work Study
Work Study is a federal program and may be a part of your financial aid package. The hourly pay will be at least minimum wage for five to twenty hours per week. In most cases, the college arranges the jobs although you may have some choice in the job you select. Typically these jobs will work around your college schedule and are highly desirable because this income will NOT count against you as income on the next year’s FAFSA since it is an aid program for which you were eligible.
Low Interest Loans
The Federal Perkins Loan is a low interest loan, approximately 5%, that varies with each college. You need to repay this loan; however, no interest accrues on the loan while you are in college. Your repayment period does not begin until nine months after you graduate, leave college, or drop below half time. You may borrow $3,000 yearly and a total of $15,000 as an undergraduate.
A second loan program, the Federal Stafford Loan, has two segments—(1) “subsidized” which means that the federal government pays the interest (2) “unsubsidized” which means that you will be immediately responsible for the interest payments. Both are relatively low interest loans; Interest rates change annually. The Federal Stafford Loan may require a separate application. If you qualify for the Stafford Loan you will be notified via your financial aid package from the college. Refer questions to your intended college regarding application procedures.
Parents who do not have a bad credit history can borrow a PLUS Loan to pay the education expenses of a child who is a dependent student enrolled at least half time in an eligible program at an eligible school. Repayment begins immediately.
Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997
Under the “HOPE” Scholarship” tax credit, students will receive a 100% tax credit for the first $1,000 of tuition and required fees and a 50% credit on the second $1,000. This credit is available for tuition and required fees less grants, scholarships, and other tax-‐free educational assistance.
American Opportunity Tax Credit is a credit for qualified education expenses paid for an eligible student for the first four years of higher education. You can get a maximum annual credit of $2,500 per eligible student. If the credit brings the amount of tax you owe to zero, you can have 40 percent of any remaining amount of the credit (up to $1,000) refunded to you.
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The Lifetime Learning Tax Credit is a tax credit is for any person who takes college classes. It provides a tax credit of 20% of tuition expenses, with a maximum of $2,000 in tax credits on the first $10,000 of college tuition expenses. The Lifetime Learning Credit can be claimed on your tax return if you, your spouse, or your dependents are enrolled at an eligible educational institution and you were responsible for paying college expenses. Unlike the American Opportunity credit, you need not be in the first four years of undergraduate classes. Even if you took only one class, you may take advantage of the Lifetime Learning Credit.
Parents and grandparents can create education IRAs and make penalty-‐free withdrawals from other IRAs for their own higher education expenses or those of their spouse, child, or even grandchild. In addition, for each child under age 18, families may deposit $500 per year into an Education IRA in the child’s name. Earnings in the Education IRA will accumulate tax-‐free and no taxes will be due upon withdrawal if the money is used to pay for postsecondary tuition.
Nebraska College Savings Plan
The Nebraska College Savings Plan offers many advantages: federal and state tax benefits, multiple investment options and the flexibility to attend public or private schools nationwide. Additionally, effective January 1, 2002 earnings on all qualified education withdrawals are exempt from federal taxes. There are also no age, income or residency restrictions. Call 1-‐888-‐993-‐3746 or visit the website at www.PlanForCollegeNow.com.
Other Aid Programs
Parents and students are encouraged to investigate other resources for financial assistance.
This may require contact with other federal, state, and other agencies, such as Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs Office, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Vocational Rehabilitation, and others.
ROTC Scholarships
The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) of the Army, Air Force and Navy (including the Marine option) offer an excellent scholarship program to the college-‐bound student willing to make a commitment to several years of active duty with the military after college. The ROTC scholarship provides an opportunity to attend a civilian college or university while studying officer training as part of the total undergraduate program. The scholarships may be for two to four years. After the first year, the student may choose to discontinue the scholarship without any obligations or pay backs of any kind.
The scholarship pays full tuition fees and textbooks, plus a $150 monthly allowance.
Early application for an ROTC scholarship is critical, either at the end of the junior year or by early October of the senior year. The application process is detailed and takes somewhat more time than most scholarships.
Active Military Service
Active service personnel can contribute to their own college fund and receive a considerable amount in benefits to help defray college costs.
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Tuition Assistance Plans
Students who do not want to commit to a full time active military involvement may want to consider the Army Reserve (or other Reserve components), Nebraska (or other state) Air Guard Programs. The Army “Star” program is especially attractive for students interested in the health medical related areas. The Nebraska Air Guard provides significant tuition assistance at any state supported college, university, vocational or trade school in Nebraska. Your commitment is only one weekend of training per month plus 15 additional days usually in the summer. See your counselor for more information.
Uniquely Available Foundation-‐Based Scholarship for Nebraska Students Bound to Nebraska Public Colleges ONLY—Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation Scholarship
To be considered for a scholarship from The Susan T. Buffett Foundation, a student must:
1. Be a resident of the state of Nebraska
2. Graduate from a high school in Nebraska or earn a Nebraska GED
3. Achieve at least a 2.5 cumulative unweighted GPA in high school a. 2.5 on a 4 point scale b. 80 on a 100 point scale
4. Be a first-‐time freshman when entering college a. Students obtaining dual enrollment credits in high school are still eligible to apply
5. Plan to attend any of the following Nebraska public institutions:
a. Nebraska Community Colleges-‐ Central, Metropolitan, Mid-‐Plains, Northeast, Southeast, or Western Nebraska;
b. Nebraska State College System-‐ Chadron State, Peru State, Wayne State; or
c. University of Nebraska-‐ NCTA, UNK, UNL, UNMC, or UNO
6. Be in need of financial assistance in order to attend school
a. Note: Students do not need to be Pell Grant eligible to qualify
b. Students with an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) below $15,000 are encouraged to apply
To calculate your EFC, use the College Funding Estimator
Mrs. Koester has put together some tips and information regarding the Buffett Scholarship
application process. Access it at the school website.
Buffett Scholarship Student Selection § All eligible applications are reviewed and scored § Awards are determined on the following criteria:
Ø Financial need Ø Academic merit Ø Personal essay Ø Strength of recommendations
Every applicant who completes an application will receive a decision notification via email by May 1st
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Recommended Web Sites
http://petersons.com/ugchannel/ www.actstudent.org www.collegeboard.com/splash www.mycollegeoptions.com www.utexas.edu/world/univ/ www.educationquest.org www.mappingyourfuture.org www.pricetonreview.com
The Interest Finder www.myfuture.com
Offers career search tools and military information and much more. The Work Interest Quiz can help you find some answers.
The College Planning Center www.collegeplanningcenter.org
Offers a variety of college planning strategies and services.
ACT Online www.act.org
Provides a variety of different search engines to college bound students and their parents.
College Board Online www.collegeboard.org
Connects you to varied materials, including ExPan, which offers in-‐depth information about colleges, careers and financial aid for more than 3,000 two-‐ and four-‐year colleges.
US News Report www.usnews.com/usnews/edu/eduhome.htm
This is the US News & World Report’s annual ranking of academic institutions. It also offers a ‘Compare College’ section, which lets parents and students fill out a comparison worksheet to
help narrow down their choices.
Search Colleges www.collegeview.com
You can take virtual tours of colleges, check into financial aid, and apply online.
www.wiredscholar.com
This is one of the most complete web sites in assisting students in making a college choice.
www.AnyCollege.Net The best college search engine on the Internet.
Internet’s Largest Free Scholarships Search www.fastweb.com
This website contains over 275,000 scholarships, fellowships, grants and loans. You may choose to complete a profile that will then search only for those awards that apply to you. There are currently over 1,000,000 students who participate in this program and the number continues to grow. You are
provided with daily updates and email notices that keep you informed of new awards as they become available.
www.finaid.com This site covers loans, scholarships and military aid. It walks you through the types of aid as well as explains the ins and outs of applying.
www.questbridge.org This site is a National College Match program that matches outstanding high school seniors with schools that offer full four-‐year scholarships to some of the nation’s leading
colleges. Students should visit the website and apply before Sept. 30th.
EducationQuest site is HIGHLY recommended!
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Glossary of College-‐Related Terms Advanced Standing:
Associate Degree:
Audit:
Baccalaureate Degree:
College Work Study:
Credit Hour:
Doctorate:
Early Decision:
Early Action: Financial Aid Director: Full-‐Time Student: Liberal Arts: Major: Master’s Degree: Minor: Registrar: Rolling Admission:
Undergraduate:
Credit or advanced placement for freshmen that have done previous high-‐level high school or college work or scored high on advanced placement tests.
Degree granted for completion of a course of study, usually two to three years at a community college or junior college.
Attending a course and learning without getting credit or a grade for it. Often you have to pay tuition fees.
Bachelor’s degree awarded for completion of an undergraduate curriculum, usually four years in length.
A federal financial aid program providing on and off campus employment.
The system of assigning a given number of credits to a college course. A three-‐credit course usually represents three hours per week spent in the college classroom.
Highest academic degree awarded by a college or university of advanced graduate study.
A student applies to first-‐choice college early in their senior year and agrees to withdraw all other applications to enroll at that college if accepted.
Used primarily in highly selective colleges. Same time table as early decision, but allows accepted candidates until May 1 to accept or decline offer of admission.
The person in charge of determining monetary assistance for college expenses. This person usually has some discretion to adjust a financial aid package or make other decisions relative to a student’s financial aid.
A student who enrolls in at least 12 credit hours per semester.
Courses in humanities, social sciences, and the abstract sciences as opposed to technical or professional subjects.
Subject in which a student takes the greatest concentration of courses.
Degree conferred for completion of a program of postgraduate work, usually lasting for one or two years.
Subject in which a student takes the second greatest concentration of courses.
University official who keeps records of enrollment and academic standings.
Policy adopted by colleges under which students can be accepted throughout the school year rather than only in the spring.
A student who is attending college who has not yet earned a degree.
