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HOW TO SEND YOUR CHILD (or Grandkids) TOCOLLEGE WITHOUT GOING BROKE

First EditionCopyright 2007 All Rights Reserved

First Printing 2007

Published by IYD, [email protected]

888-913-8786

No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means–graphic, electronic or mechanical, recording or photocopying, orinformation storage or retrieval system–without written permission fromthe publisher.

It is recommended that the reader rely on his or her own judgment andexperience as he or she utilizes any of the ideas, techniques, or suggestionscontained in this book.

This book is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information inregard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding thatthe publisher and author are not engaged in rendering legal or accountingservices or advice. If legal, accounting or other expert assistance is required,the services of a competent professional should be sought.


HOW TO SEND YOUR CHILD (or Grandkid) TOCOLLEGE WITHOUT GOING BROKE

Table of Contents……………………………………………………….…………….3

What Colleges Don’t Tell You!....................................................................................4

Career Search Navigator……………………………………………….…………….7

ACT/SAT Test Prep Navigator……………………………………………………..17

College Selection Navigator…………………………………………………………24

College Visitation Navigator…………………………………………………….…..28

Admissions Navigator………………………………………………………….…….36

Scholarship Search Navigator……………………………………………….………45

The EFC Navigator…………………………………………………………….…….51

Financial Aid Form Navigator……………………………………………….……..56

The Appeals Navigator……………………………………………………….……..64

Appendix A …College Calendar…………………………………………….……..77

Appendix B…College Terminology………………………………………….…….82


What Colleges Don’t Tell You!

College Terminology You May Never Hear

These are words and phrases that college officials use when they talk to each other, or toofficials from other colleges. They try their best not to use these terms around the family,but you need to be aware of this college terminology.

Admit-Deny

This describes the process of setting priorities on students who have been accepted to acollege. Assume a college is attempting to admit 500 freshmen. Each year, about one-third of the freshmen students a college accepts, eventually enroll. So each year it mustaccept 1,500 applicants to get 500 freshmen. After it notifies the 1,500 that they’ve been accepted, it uses financial aid packages to try to entice the 500 it wants most.

The most attractive students get the most generous money offers. The bottom one-thirdincludes some students who cannot afford that particular college without financial aid.They have been admitted, yet denied admission because they were not offered enoughmoney to be able to enroll.

Application Score

Most colleges use a scorecard to rate their applicants. It’s the only way they can keep a record of how the thousands of applications they receive each year compare to eachother. Each college has its own scoring system. Some use a numbered scale, say 1-6.Others use letter grades, such as A-E. The important thing to remember is that collegesdo keep score. Each component of an application gets its own rating. Then the scoresare combined for a total that often determines a candidate’s fate.

It’s customary practice for an application to be read and scored by at least two admission officers. If your total score is above a certain level, you’re automatically in. If it’s too low, you’re gone. Most students are in the middle, between the two cutoffs. Theirapplications go to the admissions committee for a decision.

Bidding War

A bidding war is similar to trying to get the best deal when you buy a new car. Your bestfinancial award offer is presented to another college to see if it can do better. Financialaid officers don’t like to encourage bidding wars, but admit they exist. And because good students are in such high demand, this strategy often works.


Building a Class

Building a class is a term used for maintaining diversity in the student body. Thediversity can take many forms–racial, ethnic, geographic, and economic–depending ona college’s priorities. For example, a college may have a gender-balance policy thatstates that neither sex can be more than 52 percent of the student body.

As the final decisions are made, these policies and priorities come into play. Thefreshman class is built to reflect them. Decisions sometimes are made, reversed, and thenreversed again to build the proper class.

Buying Freshmen

Similar to the admit-deny policy, a college often gives its best financial aid package tothe students it’s attempting to attract and is said to be buying freshmen. The term often comes as an accusation from officials of other colleges that a particular competitor isbuying freshmen.

Financial Aid Leveraging

The university practice of cutting the “sticker price” to specifically targeted groups of applicants. The goal is to maximize the financial aid dollar and admit larger numbers ofstudents with the same dollars.

Here’s an example of how it can work. The college categorizes all applicants based on academic merit and financial need. For each group, the school determines, by policy,how much total aid is available to award. So, a student with above average academicability and medium need might receive $5000 in gift-aid and $3,000 in loans. On theother hand, a student with simply average academics, but low need would receive $6,000in gift-aid. The university goal is to increase the number of low-need students, andspread wider the available financial aid dollars.

As a result, a student with lower academics can receive more gift-aid than otherapplicants who have higher academic ratings.

Flag

A flag is a mark added to the student’s admissions application to indicate that it’s special. Children of alumni get flags. Students with special talents get flags. Under-representedminorities get flags. A flagged application is removed from the common pool andconsidered separately.


Gender Balance

Many colleges try to achieve a balance between male and female students. They don’t want a majority of either males or females. Some admission offices work under rules thatcome down from the president’s office requiring each sex to be, say, at least 48.5 percent of the student body.

Legacy Rating

Children of a college’s alumni are called legacies. They get an advantage at the admission office because of their parents. The size of the advantage usually isdetermined by the parent’s generosity in alumni fund drives.Applicants with the highestlegacy ratings often are admitted without regard to the rest of their application.

Need-Based (Need-Blind) Admissions

The use of money as a factor in admissions is referred to as need-based admission, need-blind admission, or more accurately, need-based denial admissions.

Many colleges say they do it. Colleges attempt to maximize the return on theirendowment funds by considering the student’s ability to pay when determining who will be admitted. After a college’s financial aid pool has been exhausted, “ability to pay” can also be a factor in removing students from an admissions “wait list”. Those who have a financial need do not make it.

Preferential Packaging

Preferential packaging is a more polite term for buying freshmen. The students who aremost attractive to a college get the best financial aid package, or more grants and freemoney and less loans and work-study. Preferential Packaging could also take the form ofa large discount off the sticker price, or givingmore aid than the student’s financial need. In a survey by the National Association of College Admission Counselors, 54 percent ofthe colleges that responded say they use preferential packaging.


Career Search Navigator

The PurposeChoosing a career path is one of the most important decisions that students face today.Lack of planning forces many students into a 5 or 6 year college degree. Many studentsreceive degrees in declining-growth fields or fields with a surplus of applicants, and cannotfind employment after graduation. A wise choice in career can lead to rewardingoccupational experiences, opportunity for personal growth and the security of adequateincome. It will also allow the family to maximize the educational investment in the student.

What You Will Do In this Section

1. Conduct your own Personalized Career Assessment to analyze potential career paths andmatch those career paths with possible fields of study in college

2. Review “The Top 100 Careers for the Next Decade” list as reference.3. Review the “The Top College Majors for the Next Decade” list as reference.4. Gather specific information from additional outside sources for further research into potential

career path.5. Conduct interviews with professionals in your prospective field(s) of interest to pinpoint the

positive and negative aspects of your potential career path.6. Prioritize your career sections.

What You Can Expect to Accomplish!

Successful completion of 1 through 6 will allow you to:

Conduct a successful professional career analysis.

Narrow your college selection to relevant schools.

Maximize your likelihood of career satisfaction once a school is selected.


1 Planning Your Career or Field of Interest

Prior to entering college, every student should complete a personal career interestinventory assessment and conduct a thorough research into possible fields of interest. Aswith most endeavors in life, success comes to those who work hard and are persistent.The following are suggested sources for career interest inventory tests:

Suggested Sources of Career Interest Inventory Tests1. Your High School Guidance Counselor2. The Holland Self-Directed Career Search www.self-directed-search.com

However, the suggested fields of interest obtained from these tests are just focal points.Do not consider these areas of interest to be complete, or restrict you from furtherresearch into the career list provided. As time goes on, you may also wish to expand tonarrow your list. Your first year in college will expose you to many new ideas that maynot be presently apparent.

While you may have already considered a few of the suggested occupations, others maybe entirely new to you. A little hard work and persistence in researching your optionswill open new horizons.

Here are some suggestions to help you along the way:

Step 1–Call a professional in each of the fields you find of interest and request aninterview. Explain that you are very interested in this particular field and before youdecide to make a “leap of faith” into this college major you would like to make an appointment, at their convenience, to discuss the occupation and get an expert’s opinion of this field. Use the questions in Section 5 of the following pages for this exercise.

Most professionals will consider the above request as a smart move on your part andwelcome your assertiveness. This is an extremely important step in your decision makingeffort. Fifty-three percent of the people in the U.S. are not happy with in their presentoccupation. Don’t get caught in that crowd. Who knows, you might find a “friend”, a recommendation, a summer job, etc. If you don’t ask, you definitely will not receive!

Step 2–You can go online and do a search on Dictionary of Occupation Titles (DOT).This publication describes thousands of career fields along with the attributes consideredas essential for job performance.

Research the various occupations under the listings. This will provide you with a basicidea ofthe job “specifications”. While all this work requires planning, organization and time, the results will move you in a more solid and focused direction toward your desiredcareer path.


2 “The Top 100 Careers for the Next Decade”

01 Web Site Manager 35. Industrial Engineer 69. Tax examiner/collector02. Actuary 36. Nuclear Engineer 70. Civil Engineer03. Comp. Sys. Analysist 37. Vocational Counselor 71. Mkt. Research Analysist04. Software Engineer 38. Computer Svs. Tech. 72. Personnel Recruiter05. Mathematician 39. Optometrist 73. Newscaster06. Computer Programmer 40. Medical Records Tech. 74. Military Officer07. Accountant 41. Dietitian 75. Advertising Acct. Exec.08. Industrial Engineer 42. Physicist 76. Optician09. Hospital Admin. 43. Political Scientist 77. Architectural Drafter10. Web Developer 44. Federal Judge 78. Musical Instru. Repairer11. Paralegal Assistant 45. Mechanical Engineer 79. Engineering Technician12. Parole Officer 46. Speech Pathologist 80. Flight Attendant13. Meteorologist 47. Pharmacist 81. Computer Consultant14. Technical Writer 48. Occupational Therapist 82. G.P. Physician15. Medical Secretary 49. Publication Editor 83. Jeweler16. Medical Technologist 50. Economist 84. School Principal17. Financial Planner 51. Protestant Minister 85. Agricultural Scientist18. Medical Lab Tech. 52. Aerospace Engineer 86. Dentist19. Astronomer 53. Philosopher 87. Cashier20. Historian 54. Electrical Engineer 88. Symphony Conductor21. Postal Inspector 55. Purchasing Agent 89. Computer Operator22. Dental Hygienist 56. Chiropractor 90. Public Relations Exec.23. Biologist 57. Geologist 91. Zoologist24. Insurance Underwriter 58. Psychologist 92. Bookbinder25. Sociologist 59. Podiatrist 93. Archeologist26. Urban/Regional Planner 60. Attorney 94. Stenographer27. Physiologist 61. Electrical Tech. 95. Sr. Corp. Exec.28. Bank Officer 62. Oceanographer 96. Antique Dealer29. Broadcast Tech 63. Tele/Radio News writer 97. Military/Warrant Officer30. Agency Director 64. Chemist 98. Respiratory Therapist31. Dental Lab Tech 65. Physical Therapist 99. Typist/Wood Processor32. Statistician 66. Petroleum Engineer 100. Airplane Pilot33. Motion Pic. Editor 67. Executive Search Consult34. Audiologist 68. Anthropologist

**Ranking based on outlook, environment, stress, security, physical demands andincome.Source: Kranz, Les, The Jobs Related Almanac


3 “The Top College Majors for the Next Decade”

1) Business Administration and Management. Saving up your allowance instead ofblowing it each week. Starting your own lawn-mowing business when you were still ingrade school. They always said you had a mind for business, and now you're ready toprove it. Business majors often find success in the field of their choice, working their wayup the ladder to become managers, executives, and vice presidents in their companies.This major offers focused training in accounting, finance, marketing, economics, humanresources, and decision making. You'll learn to budget, organize, plan, hire, direct,control, and manage an organization. And you'll find even more chances for careergrowth if you go on to earn your MBA.

2) Psychology. Psychology is the study of the way humans and animals interact andrespond to their environment; in essence, it's the study of behavior and the thoughtsbehind it. Cool thing about this major: analyzing your friends and family. Not so coolthing: you almost have to go to grad school to do anything at all related to this line ofwork. Which is perfectly fine, if you understand and commit to that path from the get-go.Just don't expect that four years of college will get you a private practice where people lieon a couch and tell you their troubles for $95/hour. You'll need an extra five to sevenyears of schooling and a Ph.D. or Psy.D. before that will happen.

3) Elementary Education. From tracing a little hand on colored paper to making aThanksgiving turkey to taking a field trip to the local science center with your fourth-graders to learn about static electricity, you are excited about working in a grade schooland shaping young minds before they develop the attitude. In the early grades, you areresponsible for giving instruction in all the basic subjects (reading, writing, 'rithmetic—plus science, social studies, and the basics of health and physical education), as well asoverseeing the general development of each of your charges. Some college programsoffer (or require) an area of specialization, such as early childhood, language arts, ormathematics. When your academic work is complete, you move into the classroom forthe trial-by-fire known as student teaching. This practicum lasts from one semester to afull academic year. When you successfully complete the elementary education program,you'll have to take any certification examinations required by the state in which you wantto work. Then, it's into the classroom to mold the minds of our youth.

4) Biology. Biology majors focus on the living world—that's everything from single-cellbacteria to whales. You may take classes in which you learn about calculus,microbiology, cell biology, genetics, evolution, physics, and organic chemistry. Inaddition to being a stepping stone for med school, biology major can lead to a job in agrowing field such as genetics, biotechnology, or medical research. Veterinarians,optometrists, ecologists, biochemists, and environmentalists all may have majored inbiology.


5) Nursing. Everyone knows it takes a special kind of compassionate individual tobecome a nurse, a profession that often includes playing the roles of comforter, educator,mediator, listener, problem-solver and therapist. Generally, nurses help people meet basichealth needs, adapt to physical changes, recover from illness, and die with dignity. Theyare employed in clinics, hospitals, schools, corporations, the military, and in privatepractice. We need nurses now more than ever, and job prospects in this field are bright. Ifyou major in nursing, you'll take traditional science and liberal arts courses as a first-yearstudent and probably begin clinical rotations at hospitals and other health care facilitiesduring the second semester of your sophomore year. While in school, you'll receive lotsof practical, hands-on training. All would-be nurses are required by law to take and passthe National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) aftergraduating from an accredited nursing program before they can be considered"registered."

6) Education. "Summers off" is hopefully not the main reason you'd like to become ateacher. Many teachers actually spend their summers at a second, seasonal job (like at achildren's camp) to supplement their income, volunteering or doing some form ofcommunity service work, or working hard on next year's lessons plans. That said, lots ofteachers wouldn't dream of doing anything else. Although much of your coursework willbe general education material, most states require you to choose a specific grade levelyou'd like to teach. Choices usually include some variation of early childhood education(preschool), primary education (kindergarten through eighth grade, see #3 above), andsecondary education (ninth through twelfth grade). Some education majors choose tospecialize in special education. Your student teaching experience, in which you spend asemester or more in gaining practical experience in a classroom, will be in the field ofyour choice. Education majors may also go on to become guidance counselors, schooladministrators, and the like.

7) English. You'll find English majors in countless types of jobs. Many of them arecommunications-based careers as you'd expect—author, reporter, journalist, editor, radiobroadcaster, advertising and public relations executives—but plenty of them aren't thatobvious. English majors also become teachers, lawyers (after law school, of course), filmdirectors, politicians, actors, you name it. English majors become well-rounded, well-read individuals who have studied life in words across the globe. Be prepared to read,think, write, discuss, and then read a whole lot more.

8) Communications. A graduation speech, an infomercial, a protest in the park: any ofthese are great material for a communications major who needs to write a paper. In thisprogram, students learn how certain messages influence individual and group behavior,as well as how our reactions reflect the underlying values of society. You'll spend asignificant amount of time studying different kinds of speaking and writing and thestrategies people use to make their points and drive them home. You'll take a look atverbal and nonverbal messages, audience reaction, and the varied effects of differentcommunication environments. Communication theory will play a part too, as you delveinto monumental speeches, revolutionary political campaigns, radical social movements,and the trends in news reporting. With your degree, you may choose to pursue a career in


business, public relations, advertising, human resources, government, education, media,or social services.

9) Computer Science. Your friends are always coming to you for help when theyexperience computer problems, and you know it's high time you got paid for your efforts.Solution: obtain a degree in computer science. In this program, you'll focus on howcomputer technology can be applied to any number of fields. Included will be classes onhow to develop business applications and perform system analysis and the process ofdeveloping software (from designing to programming to testing). Programs may alsoinclude instruction in robotics, natural language recognition programs, artificialintelligence, programming languages, and numerical analysis. The knowledge you gainfrom a Computer Science major is absolutely applicable to the real world, and to real jobswithin it.

10) Political Science. This major breaks down everything from political parties to votingbehavior to public policy to revolutions all across the world. It's a pretty broad subjectinvolving heavy doses of reading, writing, and statistical analysis. Many schools willwant you to choose a concentration. Post-graduation options include: politics (running asa candidate or running a candidate's campaign), journalist, diplomat, lobbyist, and, ofcourse, law school.


4 Conducting Further Research Into Career Paths

The difficulty in choosing a career is that it often requires making a considerablecommitment in time and expense in educating and training yourself to prepare for thatcareer, prior to working in the field. Millions of people have paid for four or more yearsof college, only to find that the field they trained for does not provide them with mental,physical or monetary benefit. However, having made the investment in time and money,they feel obligated to continue.

Some students decide to change their major or career interest after one or two years andsince many of their college credits cannot be applied to their new major, they must spendfive or six years in additional time and money to achieve a four-year degree.

Given today’s high college cost environment, you cannot have too much information, orspend too much time researching, to properly plan and prepare for their career field. Inaddition to the information you receive with the Career Search Navigator report, youshould also gather additional information through independent research and sources.

You should consider discussing your prospective interests with a counselor from yourhigh school guidance department. You should also read business publications or tradeand professional journals associated with your career to learn about the latest news andtrends within the field or industry. Look for indications as to whether the field isexpanding or experiencing a decline.

Other resources to consider for further research into your Career/Major Interest(s) are:

College to Career on the web www.collegetocareer.net

Need a Lift? Published and produced by the American Legion, you can also view it onthe American Legion website by doing a search on“need a lift”.

Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor: U.S. Govt. PrintingOffice or on the web www.bls.gov/oco/

Make copies of the following page so that you can take it to each interview.


5. Questions to Ask Someone with Experience in Your ChosenCareer or Field of Interest

An excellent way to learn more about an occupation is to talk with various people in thatparticular field. You can secure interviews with experienced people by calling them,introducing yourself, then explaining that you wish to seek a first hand opinion as to thebenefits of their job or profession. Here is a list of suggested questions to ask theseprofessions:

Mr/Ms:__________________________________Telephone No:__________________

Occupation:___________________________ Company:_________________________

How long have you been in this field?

Why did you decide to work in this field?

How did you get your first job in this field?

How has this field changed since your first job?

Do you know what the future outlook is for this field?

How competitive is this field?

*continued on next page*


What do you like about your occupation?

What do you dislike about your occupation?

What are your primary duties during a typical day?

What kinds of education or training are required in this occupation?

What are the entry-level salary and benefits in this occupation?

What are the expected salary and benefits in this occupation after ten years?

What are the chances of advancement in this occupation?

What additional training or education is needed for advancement?

Where else can I look for information pertaining to this career?

Additional Question:


6 Ranking Your Career/College Major Interests

List as Many as three career paths or objectives that you wish to pursue. Rank them inorder beginning with your top choice. Use the results to determine your Career/CollegeMajor Interest when completing the College Selection Navigator.

1.___________________________________

2.___________________________________

3.___________________________________

List the factors that interest you in each of your career choices.

1.__________________________________

_________________________________

__________________________________

2.__________________________________

_________________________________

_________________________________

3.__________________________________

_________________________________

_________________________________


ACT/SAT Test Prep Navigator

The Purpose

“Standardized Tests” are the most important (and feared) tests that a college-boundstudent faces because they figure so heavily in the acceptance to the college of theirchoice. Whether these tests demonstrate true aptitude for college success is the subject ofmuch debate. However, many students who have achieved high scores have had theprivilege of advanced tutoring from the services of a costly, private test preparation firm.This section will acquaint you with the college standardized tests, inform you of biasesthat are inherent in the ACT and SAT, and provide you with the means to complete yourown comprehensive analysis of the infamous SAT test.

What You Will Do In this Section!

1. Review the four basic “Standardized Tests” and their requirements to understand the application and importance of each for college admissions.

2. Review the charts in this SAT analysis to understand the various performancegaps from past SAT examinations, and the importance of proper test preparation.

3. Review the six essential steps used for proper ACT/SAT test preparation.



♦Dramatically improve your ACT/SAT test scores.

♦Increase opportunity to be admitted to your college of choice


1 What are standardized Tests and Their Requirements

Students preparing to go to college should be aware that most schools have anentrance requirement of one (or more) standardized test(s) in order to qualify foradmissions. Each college has its own specific policy as to which test(s) are required.The major tests are:

Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT)

The PSAT measures developed mathematical and verbal reasoning abilities important for academic performance in college.

It assesses the ability to reason with facts and concepts, rather than the ability to recall and recite them.

It allows sophomores and juniors to practice for the SAT test, while simultaneouslycompeting for the National Merit Scholarships.

American College Test (ACT)

The ACT is a four-part, two hour and forty minute test measuring skills in English,Math, Natural Sciences and Social Studies, and a twenty-five minute Profile Sectionindicating grades, background and achievements.

The ACT should be taken at the end of the student’s junior year and/or early in the senior year in order to meet the deadlines of many college scholarship programs.

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT I)

The SAT is a three-part, three hour test measuring the ability to communicate andreason with words and abstract concepts in Math, Verbal and Standard WrittenEnglish.

The SAT should be taken at the end of the student’s junior year and/or early in the senior year to maximize the possible score and be considered for admissions at manycompetitive colleges.

The SAT is the most widely taken college standardized test.

The SAT is the easiest of the two aptitude tests (SAT/ACT) to prepare an advancedgame plan to achieve the highest possible score.


Scholastic Aptitude (Subject) Tests (SATII)

The SAT II tests are one hour examinations, taken in the senior year, which measure achievement in specific subject areas that are required by certain competitivecolleges.

REMEMBER: Check with your Guidance Department for registration datesand deadlines.


2 The Six Essential Steps to Maximize Your Scores

The SAT is the easiest of the two aptitude tests (ACT/SAT) to prepare for in advance.However, there are six essential steps that a student can take to properly prepare for boththe ACT and SAT tests. Following these simple steps is the easiest way to guarantee thehighest possible score.

1. Get a real ACT/SAT test from your guidance office and become familiar with theprocedures.►how it looks/what it consists of►assure that there are no surprises

2. Take the practice ACT/SAT test using official timing procedure to achieve anaccurate result.►be sure to obtain a real test►be sure to use official time limits.

3. Diagnose your weakest skills.►pinpoint problem areas►analyze weakest areas of knowledge

4. Review your weak math skills.►complete additional problems in your weak math areas

5. Review your weak verbal skills.►complete additional problems in your weak verbal areas

6. Rework the wrong answers on your original sample test.►recognize the original errors and understand why they were made►remedy the errors with improved skills

Following these practice steps, prepare to take both the ACT and SAT tests twice; once,as a high school junior, and once as a senior. This will ensure you the highest possiblescore.

SPECIAL NOTE: Regardless of the number of times you take the SAT test, thehighest scores of each section (Math/Verbal) are used to achieve a combined total score.


What Does the SAT Measure?

The SAT is an aptitude test. Like all aptitude test, it must choose a medium in which tomeasure intellectual ability. The SAT has chosen Math and English.

OK, the SAT is an aptitude test. The question is-does it measure aptitude for college?The SAT’s ability to predict performance in college is only a little better than chance.

No test can measure all aspects of intelligence. Thus any admission test, no matter howwell written, is inherently inadequate. Nevertheless, some form of admission testing isnecessary. It would be unfair to base acceptance to college solely on grades; they can bemisleading. For instance, would it be fair to admit a student with an A average earned ineasy classes over a student with a B average earned in difficult classes? A school’s reputation is too broad a measure to use an admission criteria; many students seek outeasy classes and generous instructors, in hopes of inflating their GPA. Furthermore, asystem that would monitor the academic standards of every class would be costprohibitive and stifling. So until a better system is proposed, the admission test is here tostay.

Format of the SATThe SAT is a three-hour test. Only two hours and thirty minutes of the test count towardyour score-the experimental section is not scored. There are seven sections in the test.

Section Question Type Time1 10 Sentence Completions 30 Minutes

Verbal 13 Analogies12 Reading Comprehension

2 9 Sentence Completions 30 MinutesVerbal 6 Analogies

15 Reading Comprehension3 13 Reading Comprehension 15 Minutes

Verbal4 25 Multiple-choice 30 Minutes

Math5 15 Quantitative Comparisons 30 Minutes

Math 10 Grid-ins6 10 Multiple-choice 15 Minutes

Math7 Verbal or Math 30 Minutes

Experimental

The order of the format is not fixed: the sections can occur in any order.


The experimental section, which is not scored, can be a verbal section, a math section,or a logic section. You won’t know which section is experimental. You will know which type of section it is, though, since there will be an extra one of that type.

Scoring the SAT

The two parts of the test are scored independently. You will receive a verbal scoreand a math score. Each score ranges from 200 to 800. The average verbal score is500, and the average math score is 500. Thus, the total average is 1000.

In addition to the scaled score, you will be assigned a percentile ranking, which givesthe percentage of students with scores below yours. For instance, if you correctlyanswer 48 of the 60 math questions, then you will score better than 90% of the othertest takers.

The “2 out of 5” Rule

It is significantly harder to create a good but incorrect answer-choice than it is toproduce the correct answer. For this reason usually only two attractive answer-choices are offered. One correct; the other either intentionally misleading or onlypartially correct. The other three answer-choices are usually fluff. This makeseducated guessing on the SAT immensely effective. If you can dismiss the three fluffchoices, your probability of answering the question successfully will increase from20% to 50%.

Questions and Answers

When is the SAT given?The test is administered seven times a year–in October, November, December,January, March, May and June–on Saturday mornings. Special arrangements forschedule changes are available.

If I didn’t mail in a registration form, may I still takethe test?On the day of the test, walk-in registration is available, but you must call ETS inadvance. You will be accommodated only if space is available–it usually is.

How important is the SAT and how is it used?It is crucial! Although colleges may consider other factors, the majority of admissiondecisions are based on only two criteria: your SAT score and your GPA.

How many times should I take the SAT?Most people are better off preparing thoroughly for the test, taking it one time andgetting their top score. You can take the test as often as you like, but some schoolswill average your scores. You should call the schools to which you are applying tofind out their policy. Then plan your strategy accordingly.


Can I cancel my score?Yes. To do so, you must notify ETS within 5 days after taking the test.

Where can I get the registration forms?Most high schools have the forms. You can also go to the ETS website atwww.ets.org for more information.

Where can I find out more information about the SAT test?You can go online to www.testprepcenter.com and purchase an SAT Online Coursefor $69.95.


College Selection Navigator

The Purpose

Choosing the “right” college that fits the student’s personality is the most importantdecision in the college process. This is to assure the ease of transition and a highprobability that the student will graduate with a degree and a job in four years. Manyimportant factors abut a school are often overlooked in the decision making process.This section is designed to help you analyze the factors to determine the ideal six toeight colleges to apply for admission.

What You Will Do In This Section!

1. Review the Selecting the Student’s Ideal College Instructions.

2. Analyze and grade the 20 MAJOR FACTORS in College Selection based uponyour College Major Interest (from Section 6 of the Career Search Navigator).

►Location ►Co-op Programs ►Faculty with PhD's ►Diversity►Size ►Job Placement ►Campus Setting ►Greek System►Athletic Program ►Religion ►Campus Safety ►Housing►Talent Programs ►Attrition ►Alcohol/Drug Policy ►Food

►Special Programs►Student/Faculty Ratio

►Student Body Reputation ►Weather

What You Can Expect To Accomplish!

Successful completion of Section 1 through Section 2 will allow you:

♦To have an objective basis to analyze and grade eight (8) college choices initially selected by the student on the basis of the 20 MAJOR FACTORS

♦To have an objective basis to analyze and grade any additional college choices on thebasis of the 20 MAJOR FACTORS.

♦To grade each of the colleges that you analyze to determine the best potential fit for the student


1 Selecting the Student’s Ideal College

Successful selection of an ideal college for the student can be achieved throughproper research. This research should be centered around a group of twenty MAJORfactors to determine which of those factors are most important to the student andfamily. Use Section 2 to analyze and grade up to twenty five colleges to helpdetermine which schools the student will send admissions applications.

The necessary information to complete Section 2 can be found in each college’s own information literature, or in the following books at most libraries or bookstores:♦Peterson’s Guide to Four-Year Colleges♦Barron’s Profiles of American Colleges♦Princeton Review’s The Best 309 Colleges♦Steven Antonoff’s The College Finder/475 Ways♦Edward Fiske’s The Selective Guide to Colleges♦Lovejoy’s The College Guide

However, your final college choice should ultimately be based on the strategicinformation you gather during your college visits. Use the question and answeranalysis (provided in Sections 2 through 5 of the College Visitation Navigator) fromeach college visit to determine which colleges best fit the student’s personality profile, meet the parents’ personal priorities and offer the family a good educational value.

Use the following step-by-step process to rank up to twenty five (25) college choices.

Step 1. List the career path(s) or area(s) of interest that you wish to pursue. Use theCareer Search Navigator as an aid to locate possible strengths.

1._______________________________

2._______________________________

3._______________________________

Step 2. Use Section 2 to score the twenty MAJOR college selection factors for eachcollege you choose. This can help you determine your final college choice. Be sureeach college has the career path(s) or area(s) of interest (Step 1) the student wishes topursue.

Step 3. Rank your top eight (8) college choices.

1 52 63 74 8


2 Major Selection Factors

1. Location–Is the Location of this college satisfactory to your needs?

2. Size–Is the size of this college satisfactory to your needs?♦small –less than 3,000 students ♦medium –between 3,000 and 10,000♦med/large –between 10,000 and 20,000 ♦large –greater than 20,000 students

3. Athletic Program– Does this college have a sports program that meets the student’s needs (as an athlete or a spectator

4. Talent Program– Does this college have a talent program that meets the student’s needs (theater, newspaper, debate team)?

5. Special Programs–Does this college have special programs or facilities that the studentneeds or must have (learning disabilities, special medical facilities, etc.)?

6. Co-op Programs–Does this college have an academic co-op (study/work) program in thestudent’s major that can reduce your college costs and help the student achieve employment after graduation?

7. Job Placement–Does this college have a Placement Office that places a high number ofstudents in jobs prior to graduation?

8. Religion–Does this college have a religious program that fits your needs?

9. Attrition–Does this college have a high number of freshmen that graduate within fiveyears.

10. Student/Faculty Ratio–Does this college have a low student to faculty ratio to guaranteea more interactive classroom participation and personal faculty attention for the student?

11. Faculty With PhDs–Does this college have a high number of faculty with PhDs?

12. Campus Setting–Is this college located in a desirable area or neighborhood?

13. Safety– Does this college’s campus have adequate security and a good safety reputation?

14. Alcohol/Drug Policy–Does this college’s alcohol/drug policy fit your requirement?

15. Student Body Reputation– Does this college’s student body reputation fit the student’s personality?

16. Diversity– Does the student mix at this college fit the student’s personality?

17. Greek System–Does the role that fraternities and sororities play in this college fit thestudent’s needs?

18. Housing– Is this college’s housing (and housing policy) satisfactory to your needs?


19. Food–Is the on-campus food at this college satisfactory to your needs?

20. Weather– Is this college located in a climate that’s satisfactory to your needs?


College Visitation Navitator

The PurposeThe main function of the campus visit is to insure that the college’s “personality” fits the personality of the student. Once you have identified the colleges of interest, adirect campus visit will offer a clearer understanding of each college’s programs, policies and social setting. Only during this visit can the student experience theenvironment in which he or she will live and work during the subsequent four criticalyears.

What You will Do In This Section

1. Make visitation arrangements with the colleges that you have selected using theCollege Selection Navigator. Scheduling is recommended on a weekday, duringthe school term.

2. While on compass, you should ask strategic questions, including those from thefollowing questionnaires:

1. Admissions Office2. Financial Aid Office3. Career Placement Office4. Faculty5. Athletic Department6. Students

3. Based upon your evaluation of the responses, use Section 7 to rank your colleges.

What You Can Expect To Accompolish!

♦ You will have a clear understanding of the day-to-day operation of each college

♦ You will have an objective method to compare the strengths of each school.

♦ You will be able to determine which college best fits the student based on the education value, employment opportunity and affordability to the family.

Please make sure to make copies of the next 6 pages prior to each collegevisit!!!!!


1 Questions to be Asked: Admission Office

College:_______________________________________________

Mr/Ms/Dr:______________________________________________

Telephone No. (______)_______-_________ Date ____________________

1. What are the criteria used for admissions at your college?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

2. How do you rank these criteria?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

3. How important is the ACT/SAT test in the admissions process?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

4. What is the college’s admissions deadline?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

5. What is the student to faculty ratio at the college?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

6. What percentage of faculty members have doctorate degrees?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

7. What is the average enrollment of the freshman class?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

8. What percentage of freshmen class will graduate?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

9. What percentage of graduates will continue on to graduate school?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

10. My Overall impression?


2 Questions to be Asked: Financial Aid OfficeCollege:_______________________________________________

Mr/Ms/Dr:______________________________________________


1. What is the total cost of college or financial aid budgeted cost?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

2. What forms are used by the college to determine financial aid eligibility?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

3. What is the college’s financial aid deadline?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

4. How does the college financially reward a good student?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

5. What percentage of my financial NEED will be met by the college?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

6. What percentage of this NEED met will be in the form of Gift Aid? In the formof Loans? In the form of Work/Study?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

7. What other non-need or merit grants and scholarships are available?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

8. If any private outside scholarships are awarded, will the school use these toreplace their own monies?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

9. What is the average debt incurred by each Student upon graduation?

Answer:______________________________________________________________



3 Questions to be Asked: Career Placement Office

College:_______________________________________________

Mr/Ms/Dr:______________________________________________


1. How many full-time staff members work in the placement office?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

2. What job placement services are provided by the placement office?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

3. How long do job placement services remain in effect after graduation?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

4. What percentage of graduates will be employed prior to graduation?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

5. What are the most popular majors of graduates receiving employment?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

6. Which companies and organizations recruit your graduates?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

7. What are the credentials of those graduates receiving employment?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

8. What is the starting salary of graduates in my field or major?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

9. What is the future employment outlook of my field or major?

Answer:______________________________________________________________



4 Questions to be Asked: Faculty or Department Head

College:_______________________________________________

Mr/Ms/Dr:______________________________________________


1. What is unique about this department’s program?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

2. What is the likelihood of graduating from this program in four years?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

3. What department facilities and special technology are available?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

4. How does the faculty advising system work?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

5. How accessible are the professors in this department?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

6. How many full professors are on the department staff?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

7. What percentage of full professors teach introductory classes?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

8. What is the average size of the classes or lectures?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

9. Can I sit in on a class?

Answer:______________________________________________________________



5 Questions to be Asked: Athletic Department/Coach

College:_______________________________________________

Mr/Ms/Dr:______________________________________________


1. Where would you rank (SPORT) at your college? In your league?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

2. What sports or activities share the same facilities with (SPORT)?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

3. Does the college plan any additions or changes to the facilities?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

4. Does (SPORT) have an off-season schedule?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

5. What locations are on the team’s upcoming travel schedules?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

6. What is the break-down of the staff, coaches and their specialties?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

7. What allowances are made for class and exam preparation?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

8. What are my earliest opportunities at playing my position?

Answer:______________________________________________________________

9. Does the team have a set of rules or policies for the athletes?

Answer:______________________________________________________________



6 Questions to be Asked: Students

College:_______________________________________________

Date ____________________

1. What are three things you most like about the university?1)______________________________________2)______________________________________3)______________________________________

2. What are three things you most dislike about the university?1)______________________________________2)______________________________________3)______________________________________

3. How difficult is it to get assigned to classes?

Answer:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. What are the classes like?

Answer:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

5. What are the professors like?

Answer:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. What is campus life in general like?

Answer:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7. What are the dorms like?

Answer:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


7 Ranking the College Choices After the Visit

Rank your college choices based on the strategic information you’ve gathered during your college visits. Use the question and answer analysis from each college visit todetermine which colleges best fit the student’s personality profile, meet the parents’ personal priorities and offer the family a good education value.

1.__________________________

2.__________________________

3.__________________________

4.__________________________

5.__________________________

6.__________________________

7.__________________________

8.__________________________


Admissions Navigator

The Purpose

If you plan to attend college, facing the enormous process called “admissions” is inevitable. But applying and being accepted to a college doesn’t have to be such a painful event. Except for the Ivys and a handful of very selective schools, collegestoday admit a much higher ratio of applicants. Even the most prestigious colleges arespending huge sums to market themselves to prospective students. Yes, the studentcan be very selective about the college they wish to attend. Use the followingsections as a guide to the ultimate goal of being accepted to the college of yourchoice.


1. Review the Top Ten Factors Considered in Admissions and your contractualobligations involved with each type of admissions plan.

2. Use this section to keep track of your admission’s deadlines and review thestrategies that can help improve your chance of acceptance.

3. Use this checklist to make the admission’s application process work for your benefit.

4. Showcase your abilities and talents by using this example to prepare your ownpersonal Resume of Outstanding Achievement.

5. Use this checklist as a guideline for writing a successful admissions essay.

6. Use this checklist to ensure a successful admission’s interview.



♦ Accurately complete the admissions applications and meet the deadlines.

♦ Dramatically increase your chance of a successful admissions campaign.


1 College Admissions 101

Top Ten Factors Considered in Admissions

1 Academic Merit (grades)2 Class Rank3 ACT/SAT Prep Scores4 Special Abilities (athletic, talent, etc.)5 Essay6 Interview7 Extracurricular Activities8 Recommendations (teachers, alumni, etc.)9 State Resident10 Diversification of Student (minority, alumni, geographic location, etc.)

Admission Plans

Early Entrance–A student can be accepted, admitted and enrolled prior to highschool graduation. Many colleges use this guarantee to attract better students.

Early Decision–A student can apply to a college by an early deadline to guaranteetheir admission, but is obligated to attend that college under a binding contract.

Early Action–A student can apply to a college by an early deadline to guaranteetheir admission, without obligating themselves to attend that college.

Regular Admission–A student applies for admission under normal deadlines.

Rolling Admissions–A student can apply for admission at various times during theyear and is under no deadlines.

Deferred Admissions–A student with financial, personal or work-related concernscan defer or postpone their enrollment for up to one year.


2 Admission Deadlines & Strategies

List the Admissions deadlines of up to eight college choices.

DeadlineCollege Date

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

*Specific form requirements and deadlines can be found in each of the college’s admissions applications, marketing brochures or by placing a phone call directly tothe college. Popular guidebooks are often one to two years out of date.

Admission Strategies

Be sure that each college the student applies to:

Has a reputation for quality education.

Fits the student’s personality and needs.

Is matched with a competitor college of equal quality.

Will meet the high percentage of your financial NEED

Will meet your NEED with a high percentage of Gift-Aid.


3 Admissions Application Checklist

Use the following checklist as a guideline to completing a successful admission’s application and campaign.

Write or phone directly to the college to request up-to-date applications.

Start early – don’t wait until the last minute

Get organized –use a separate file folder for each college application.

Be sure to read the application thoroughly and answer each question, as asked.

Type or print each application (preferably in black ink). No longhand.

Proofread each application. Spelling and grammatical errors are unacceptable.

Be sure to include ONLY those extracurricular activities that are impressive to the college. They should demonstrate qualities of leadership, duration and activities thatreinforce your academic and career goals mentioned in your application.

Make copies of each completed application.

Request for teacher recommendations early (3 week preference).

Choose teachers thatbest know you.

Provide deadlines and proper forms, including a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Send each teacher a thank-you note, and keep each informed of the results.

Be sure to make arrangements with your guidance department to include your highschool transcript and distribute the applications to the colleges.


4 Resume of Outstanding Achievement

I. What is a Resume of Outstanding Achievement?

Each year thousands of students fill out admissions applications in an attempt to gainentrance into the college of their choice. Many attempt to enter prestigious collegeswith the understanding that, even though their high school record is impeccable, thereare thousands of other students as good, or better, competing for the same privilege.A Resume of Outstanding Achievement highlights the student’s background and abilities.

II. Why should I do a Resume of Outstanding Achievement?

Admissions Officers review thousands of applications. Being accepted to a particularschool may be important to you, but to Admissions Officers it is a tedious, at best,yearly task. Therefore, you should put yourself in their shoes and help them maketheir job easier. A two (2) page Resume of Outstanding Achievement accomplishesthis goal with style. It allows for a quick review of your background to showcaseyour abilities and talents. Best of all, it saves the admissions review committee time.Showing consideration for their time may give you the edge you need to gainacceptance.

III. What should a good Resume of Outstanding Achievement contain?

Similar to a job resume, the Resume of Outstanding Achievement should quicklyexplain the student:

♦ Is a well rounded individual♦ Has leadership capabilities♦ Is organized♦ Is confident and mature♦ Has the capability of assuming additional responsibilities♦Has a game plan and is motivated to achieve a goal♦ Has the qualities the school is looking for♦ DESERVES ACCEPTANCE!

Following the guideline on the next two (2) pages to develop your own personalResume of Outstanding Achievement.

NOTICE: Be sure to include your resume with each application that yousubmit!


James A Smith

Address: 4560 Main Street Phone: (614)791-0000Anytown, OH 40600

Educational/Career Goals:

My educational goal is to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from the University of USA. My career goal is to be a writer.

Academic History:

School: Anytown High School, Anytown, Ohio–Graduate 2006

Class Rank: 15th of 389 students

GPA: 3.45

Curriculum: College PreparationAdvanced Placement–EnglishAdvanced Placement–HistoryThree Honors Classes

Achievements/Honors: National Honor RollKiwanas Top 10 HonoreeNational Merit SemifinalistOutstanding Senior AwardWho’s Who of American StudentsGemini Technology Award

Scores: ACT Composite 26Percentile 89

SAT Math 600Verbal 600

Personal Interests:

Reading/Writing/Music/Travel


Extracurricular Activities:

Editor-In-Chief–Anytown High School NewspaperAnytown All-City ChoirDrama ClubInternational Thespian SocietyKey ClubSpanish ClubStudent CouncilFootball–3 yearsTrack–2 years (Captain)

Community Service:

Habitat for Humanity Volunteer–Anytown, OhioFaith Mission Soup Kitchen Volunteer–Anytown, OhioInter City Camp Counselor–Union Wesleyan Church, Anytown, OhioBible School Counselor–Union Wesleyan Church, Anytown, OhioRed Cross–Blood DonorI CAN Building Program Voluntter–New Iberia, Louisiana

Employment:

Self-Employed Author: The Creativesmith Inc.The Soup Kitchen, Adam Publishing Company, Inc. 2005

Anytown McDonald’s, Anytown, Ohio–3 years

References:

Martin Holland, English Teacher & School Newspaper Advisor9335 Hoover Road, Anytown High School, Anytown, Ohio

Jim Lester, Owner & President of Anytown McDonald’s 16 Main Street, Anytown, Ohio

Reverend Jerry Lyman, Union Wesleyan Church397 Darby Stream Road, Anytown, Ohio


5 Essay Checklist

Use the following checklist as a guide to writing successful admission’s essays.

List the initial thoughts that you would like to emphasize about yourself.

Focus in on the topics that you feel would best describe your strengths.

Write a tentative statement that would reflect what you want to say..

Write a list of details that could be used to support your statement. You may wish touse your Resume of Outstanding Achievement as a guide.

Arrange this list of details into a well-ordered outline.

Demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, dedication, commitment togoals, ability tocomplete tasks and leadership and self-control.

Write a first draft of your admissions essay.

Revise your first draft, paying special attention to your introductory and concluding paragraphs, as well to transitions between your paragraphs.

Proofread your revised essay at least twice: once for spelling, punctuation, usage and other mechanical errors and a second time for meaning and overall effectiveness.

Have someone else proofread your essay and make suggestions for improvement.

Be sure the essay is within the recommended length.

Use words and phrases that are common to you.

Do not overuse adjectives or adverbs.


6 Interview Checklist

Use the following checklist as a guideline for successful admission’sinterviews.

Practice for your interview. Be prepared to answer obvious questions. Consult your guidance department for these standard questions and review them with your counselor orparents.

Practice makes perfect. Arrange your first interviews at the colleges in which you’re least interested in attending

Relax and be yourself.

Be alert and to the point. Make the interview easy for the interviewer.

Be sure you are neat and presentable.

Provide the interviewer with a copy of your Resume of Outstanding Achievement.

Showcase your abilities and talents. Stay positive.

Ask the questions in the College Visitation Navigator. The appearance of a solid game plan for admissions is impressive. Document the name, date and response.

Don’t dwell on a particular question. Show consideration for their time.

Don’t make lofty statements about yourself. Be humble.

Avoid negatives about yourself or making excuses for any sub par performance.

Be prepared to answer the following questions: Describe your ideal college?, Whichother colleges are you considering?, or Which college is your top choice?

Send a thank-you note to each interviewer within 3 days after the interview.


Scholarship Search Navigator

The Purpose

“There are scholarship and grant monies that go unused each year because people don’t know how to access it.” That’s what the computerized scholarship search companies claim. It’s NOT TRUE. Most of the available college scholarships and grants arecontrolled by the colleges themselves, and only 1% of them are available through outsidesources. The following sections will help you to identify the deceptive scholarshipsearches offers, conduct your own LOCAL scholarship search and introduce a low costcomputerized search used by colleges and libraries around the country.


1. Learn how to identify the common traits of deceptive, computerized scholarshipsearch offers and how some can prey off desperate parents by using misleadingwording in their sales pitch.

2. Conduct your own scholarship search from local organizations such as theChamber of Commerce, Rotary, churches, etc. These local private scholarshipsand grants are more accessible to you and your student.

3. Review this low cost, nationwide scholarship search from a credible companyused by colleges and libraries around the country. If you believe that “time is money” and wish to save hours of search conducting a scholarship search specific to your student, you may wish to use this low cost service.



♦ Avoid loosing money to expensive, non-productive scholarship searches.

♦ Conduct a quick and easy search of all available local scholarships and grants.

♦ Conduct a low cost, time saving, national scholarship search.


1 “Buyer Beware” the Computerized Search

“All that glitters is not gold.” This is particularly true for the Scholarship Search business. Let’s look at the facts:

FACT 1: Nearly all financial aid is government or college controlled

The Sources of Financial Aid

50

40

30

20

10

0Federal Federal VA Private

Loans Grant CollegesStat

e EmployersProgram

s Funds

FACT 2: Scholarship search firms deal with private sector aid–no more than 1% of thepotential financial aid funding

FACT 3: The cost for most searches is high:

FACT 4: With your effort, you can obtain information about private sector scholarshipsfrom a school or public library, or a local college.

FACT 5: Scholarship search firms will only provide the addresses for sources. YOUmust still do all the leg work, including applications and compliance with the terms andconditions of the scholarship.

FACT 6: There is legitimate financial aid data base information available.


1a Recognizing the Deceptive Scholarship Search

Factors that are typical of deceptive scholarship search offers:

Cost range

You receive page after page of out-of-date lists of private scholarships and grants.Most do not fit your student’s profile.

Promises a “rock-solid” guarantee.

Any guarantee requires proof of rejection from the entire potential list of sources. NOcredible foundation will notify the numerous rejections.

Frequently states they have confirmed your, “eligibility” in an award. They don’t know you or your student from Adam.

You frequently will receive notice of this great possibility with a notice or postcard. These should not be used they only want your money.


2 How to Conduct Your Own Local Scholarship Search

Scholarships and grants from local organizations are more likely to fit your student’s profile and your odds of success will increase dramatically by applying for these privatesector monies. Here’s where you can begin to look:

1. High School Guidance Department

2. Parent/Teacher’s Association

3. Chamber of Commerce

4. Local Libraries

5. Local Community/Technical College

6. Yellow Pages (under Foundations)

7. Churches

8. Clubs

9. Unions

10. Trade Associations

11. Fraternal organizations

12. American Legion Post

13. Businesses (Human Relations Dept.)

14. Local Pageants

Once you locate possible monies, use the chart on the next page to record the informationabout those that best fit the profile of your student. Then complete your applicationsaround the various deadlines.


Local Scholarships and Grants

Name ofFoundation Address Contact Phone # Deadline Amount Requirements


3 A National Database of Scholarships & Grants

Even though the private sector produces only 1% of the available college financial aid,many families still wish to pursue every possible source of monies to reduce their collegecosts. What are the common traits of a respectable computerized scholarship search?

1. Low cost–Your local library may have a FREE scholarship database. If the costof a customized database search is above $29.00, it’s probably worth the time and effort to complete your own database search.

2. No guarantee–In this highly competitive field of private sector scholarships andgrants, there is never a guarantee you will actually win monies. Therefore, acredible company will never offer a guarantee. What you see is what you get!The only guarantee is that you will save time using their predetermined, verifieddatabase.

3. Annually verified list of sources–Every foundation or company that offers ascholarship or grant or endowment usually operates their program under a non-profit status (IRC 501c3) and must register each year with the Internal RevenueService. A credible search company will verify the continuing status of eachsource, every year.

4. Credible–If the database used by the search company is also sold to librariesand colleges, you are most likely tapping into a credible resource.

If you believe that “time is money” and wish to save hours of research conducting a scholarship search specific to your student, you way wish to use the following low cost,nationwide scholarship search:

♦ The Scholarship Resource Network. You can do a free search at www.srnexpress.com

♦ There is NO guarantee

♦ They are members of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.


The EFC Navigator

The Purpose

The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is quite possibly the most important singlenumber to a college bound student’s family. This number is directly related to the IRS tax code and is calculated from a formula based on the student’s and parents’ income and assets. In simple terms, the lower the EFC, the greater the family’s eligibility to qualify for financial assistance. The EFC Navigator is dedicated to helping you get the correctamount of financial aid.


1. Discover:♦ The theory and reality of the Financial Aid System♦ What the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is; and♦ Why the key to the affordability of your child’s college education is linked to the Expected Family Contribution

2. Discover:♦ How your income and assets are assessed under the EFC formula, which can improve the accuracy of your financial aid applications.


♦ An awareness of the importance of the Expected Family Contribution.

♦ Minimize your Expected Family Contribution and increase your financial aideligibility.


1 The Current College Financial Aid System

The college financial aid system is often misunderstood. In your endeavor toqualify for financial aid, please remember three main points:

1. The Federal government sets rules for how financial aid is intended tobe given;

2. The colleges have nearly unlimited authority to decide who gets thataid and in what amounts.

3. The colleges can override the rules using their professional judgment.

In theory, students with the greatest financial need should realize the largest financial aidbenefit. In actuality, many colleges use financial aid to attract students who best fit thecollege’s goals and quotas; either, academically or demographically.

Since state universities are substantially subsidized by their state government, privatecolleges are constantly competing against these lower costs. However, private collegesare not regulated by a state government. Therefore, they have the freedom to offerlucrative financial aid packages to students they wish to attract. To meet thiscompetition, every private college in the United States can give a special grant (usuallynamed after their institution) to “discount” their cost to the competitive level of stateuniversities.

Don’t be fooled by Three Misconceptions most parents fall into:

1. Financial aid is only for the poor.

2. I earn too much money to qualify for financial aid.

3. Private colleges are too expensive.

These misconceptions could cause you to overlook the financial aid system as a way topay for college. Families should make every attempt to understand exactly how thefinancial aid system works.


1a The Expected Family Contribution

The Expected Family Contribution or EFC is the amount of money the student andparents are expected to pay toward college, based upon the family’s financial position.The family’s financial position is evaluated by:

♦ Who earns income and how much; and♦ Who owns property or investments, and in what form.

How much financial aid the student is eligible to receive is based on a simple formula:

Total Cost of College- Expected Family Contribution= Financial Aid Eligibility

From this formula, it is easy to see that as the family’s Expected Family Contribution is increased or decreased, the student’s Financial Aid Eligibility is accordingly increased or decreased. Unfortunately, the methods of evaluating how the income and assets of thestudent and family are counted are quite complex.

Not all colleges will satisfy a student’s entire Financial Aid Eligibility. With inadequate planning, a family could end up paying their Expected Family Contribution PLUS asignificant portion of the unmet Financial Aid Eligibility.

Developing a solid college plan to minimize your Expected Family Contribution, whilechoosing a college that will assess the lowest premium, is the least expensive method tofund a college education


2 Understanding the EFC Formula

Similar to the IRS Tax Code, the Financial Aid System is also governed by a set of rulesand regulations. The financial aid rules and regulations are called the FederalMethodology which are used to establish the Expected Family Contribution or EFCFormula. It is important to understand the components of the EFC formula in order toaccurately complete your financial aid applications. Your knowledge of:

1. How income and assets are assessed, and2. The proper classification and ownership of income and assets

can assure your family the maximum financial aid eligibility.

The following is a chart which lists the assessment of income and assets under theExpected Family Contribution or EFC formula. To insure the accuracy of your financialaid applications, you may want to consult your accountant, financial planner or collegecounselor experienced in educational planning and the EFC formula. Please complete thefinancial questionnaire on 2a prior to this consultation.

Living Allowance 22% ParentsParents - Income Tax x to = ContributionIncome Social Security Tax 47% from Income

ParentsParents - Asset Protection X 5.6% ContributionAssets Allowance from Assets

+

$2,200 Student

Student - Income TaxX 50%

= ContributionIncome Social Security Tax From Income

Student

Student - NothingX 20%

= ContributionAssets from Assets

EXPECTED= FAMILY

CONTRIBUTION


2a The EFC Questionnaire

Please complete the following questionnaire prior to consulting with your accountant,financial planner or college counselor. Be sure your financial consultant is experiencedin educational planning and the EFC formula.

Name:____________________________________________________

City/State/Zip:______________________________________________

Phone (Res.):_______________________________________________

Number of Family Members:__________________________________

Number in College:__________________________________________

Parent’s Adjusted Gross Income:*_______________________________

Parent’s Retirement Contributions:*_____________________________

Parent’s Non-Taxable Income and Benefits;* _____________________

Parent’s Net Investment:** ____________________________________

Student’s Adjustment Gross Income:______________________________

Student’s Total Investments:_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Student’s Grade Point Average:___________________________________

Student’s Class Rank:___________________________________________

Student’s ACT Score:___________________________________________

Student’s SAT Score:________________________________________________________________________________________________________

*See, IRS Form 1040**Total Investments include bank accounts, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, businessassets, etc, minus debts against these specific investments.


Financial Aid Form Navigator

The Purpose

Financial aid application forms and paperwork are bureaucratic and extremelyconfusing for most families. Although necessary to receive financial assistance,completing these forms is at the top of the lists of “Things ThatParents Would RatherNot Do.” The Financial Aid Form Navigator is dedicated to helping families betterorganize the financial aid application process, accurately complete the applicationforms and meet the requested deadlines. This can improve the family’s ability to receive financial assistance, thereby reducing their total college expenses.


1. The financial aid system can be extremely complex for the first-time applicant.Review this section to understand how the cost of a private college can be lessexpensive than a public university.

2. Review this section to help you understand the purpose of each major form, whichquestions are most important to your family and how to answer them. Use thechecklist as you complete each application and form to dramatically improve youraccuracy, and maximize your ability to receive financial assistance.

3. Complete this checklist to insure that you have the proper records to file yourfinancial aid application forms, while also improving your accuracy and speed.

4. Use this checklist to ensure that you complete only the required applications andpaperwork, and meet all the necessary deadlines to avoid possibledisqualification.


Successful completion of this section will allow you to:

♦ Accurately complete the financial aid application and meet the deadlines.

♦Take advantage of the benefits of understanding the financial aid system.


1 Financial Aid 101–Public vs. Private Colleges

The LOWER your Expected Family Contribution the HIGHER your NEED.

Private Colleges will fill a HIGHER percentage of your NEED with GIFTS youDON’Tpay back.

THEREFORE: Private College can actually COST LESSthan State Public Schools

2 Financial Aid 201– Making Difficult Forms…Simple

Filling out financial aid applications can cause the same anxiety as completing yourIRS tax forms, or visiting the dentist. This section will help you to better understandthe basis of each form, the reason each form is used and the importance of answeringall questions correctly.

WARNING: Prior to sending any of the following forms to a processor or to thecollege directly, be sure to make note of the following important information.

1. Make copies of ALL applications for your records. This will ensure that allforms are completed correctly and contain exactly the same answers.

2. List several colleges on your application. This can give you the bargainingpower needed if a favorite college comes up short in its financial awarepackage.

3. You may use ESTIMATED financial data on your application. Manyfinancial aid deadlines come due prior to the completion of your IRS 1040 taxforms.

*****


FAFSA

Free Application for Federal Student Aid

What is it?–A four/five page multi question financial aid applicationprocessed by the Federal Government and required (mandatory) by MOSTcolleges prior to awarding Federal, State, College and other monies to students inthe form of financial aid.

What does it do?–The Free Application for Federal Student Aid calculatesthe Expected Family Contribution (EFC) based upon a formula (FederalMethodology) that uses the parents’ and student’s income and assets (excluding the house and family farm) to determine the family’s ability to pay for college.

PROFILE

Financial Aid Profile

What is it? - A six/seven-page, multi question financial aid application, processed byCollege Scholarship Service (CSS), for those colleges (mostly private) that requireadditional information, over-and-above the data provided by the FAFSA, prior toawarding their (college) own grants and scholarships. This application has three (3)sections.

1. The Registration–A one page form that registers basic information with eachof your chosen colleges that require the PROFILE form.

2. The Application–A four-page form that provides standard financialinformation requested by each college that requires the PROFILE form.

3. Section Q–A one/two-page form that provides special financial informationrequested by one, or more, of the colleges that require the PROFILE form.

What does it do? - The Financial Aid PROFILE calculates the Institutional EFCbased upon a formula (Institutional Methodology) used to take a more detailed look at theparents’ and student’s income and assets (including the house and family farm).


Other Forms

Institutional Financial Aid Form

What is it?–A one to fourteen-page (depending on the particular college) financialaid application processed by those colleges (mostly private) that require additionalinformation, over-and-above the data provided by the FAFSA, prior to awarding their(college) own grants and scholarships. This application is used instead of thePROFILE.

What does it do?–The institutional Financial Aid Form calculates theInstitutional EFC based upon a formula (Institutional Methodology) used to take amore detailed look at the parents’ and student’s income and assets (including the house and family farm).

1. Which questions are most important to you? Each college has itsown unique Institutional questionnaire, but many questions on theseInstitutional forms are merely duplications of the information you will provideon the FAFSA and/or PROFILE, although they may be worded differently.

Business/Farm Supplement

What is it?–A two-page form processed by those colleges (mostly private) thatrequire additional information about business or farm income and assets, prior toawarding their (college) own grants and scholarships.

What does it do?–The Business/Farm Supplement provides a much moredetailed (itemized) look at the parents’ and/or student’s business or farm income and assets.

What questions are most important?–The total of all businessincome/assets must match the answers you provided on the FAFSA, PROFILE andany Institutional form.

Divorce/Separated Supplement

What is it?–A two-page form processed by those colleges (mostly private) thatrequire additional information about the NON-CUSTODIAL parent and remarriedspouse’s (if applicable) income and assets, prior to awarding their (college) own grants and scholarships. The FAFSA and PROFILE applications only requestinformation about the custodial parent’s income and assets.


What does it do?–The Divorce/Separated Supplement provides informationabout the NON-CUSTODIAL parent and remarried spouse’s (if applicable) income and assets, which is not required on the FAFSA, PROFILE or Institutional form.

Which questions are most important?–Since this information is notrequired on the FAFSA, PROFILE or Institutional form, a college’s request for this form usually means they intend to ask the NON-CUSTODIAL family to contribute tothe student’s education. Most private colleges will not request this form to be completed if the divorce/separation occurred at least five years prior to the student’s financial aid application.

SAR

Student Aid Report

What is it?–A six-page form processed by the Federal government that verifiesthe information you recorded on the FAFSA. A paper SAR is sent directly to thefamily by the Federal government, and electronically sent to each college that youlisted on the FAFSA.

What does it do?–The Student Aid Report serves two (2) important functions:

1. The SAR displays the data you recorded on the FAFSA and allowsyou to correct any errors to the information you provided. Theupdated data is then sent back to the Federal processor and a newpaper SAR is sent directly to the family, and electronically sent to eachcollege that you listed on the FAFSA. Additional colleges can beadded to the SAR at this time!

2. The SAR displays the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) numberbased upon the parents’ and student’s data provided on the FAFSA. The EFC is located in the upper right hand corner under the date of theapplication, as a five digit number without the dollar sign (i.e. EFC:07852).

What questions are most important?–All questions must be reviewed to assurethat the SAR represents your most accurate data available to you at the time. Also, anasterisk located next to the EFC number (EFC: 07852*) indicates that your applicationhas been selected for Verification.


Verification Report

What is it?–A two page Federal government form that is sent to you by each college,signifying that you’ve been selected for verification.

What does it do?–The Verification Report requires you to verify the data youprovided on the FAFSA as accurate and up-to-date information.

Which questions are most important?–Be sure to make copies of ALLfinancial aid applications for your records. This will ensure that you will be able tocomplete the Verification Report accurately.


3 Checklist of Records Needed for Form Preparation

The following is a list of the documents you will need to gather prior to completing thevarious financial aid form applications. Since many college deadlines are prior toFebruary 15th, the assumption is made that your current tax forms are NOT complete andyou will be using estimated data.

A copy of your previous year’s federal income tax return

Your last (December 31st pay stub of the current year (use the year-to-date info)

Your current year’s W-2, if available

All 1099 statements (sent by employer, bank, brokerage house, government, etc)

Estimated business income (if sole proprietor, partner or S Corp. stockholder)

Estimated Rent or Royalty income

Estimated Capital Gains or Losses from the sale of property or investments

Records of any other taxable income (unemployment, lottery, etc)

Records of untaxed income (social security, child support, welfare, tax exempt interest)

Records of Medical or Dental Expenses not covered by insurance

Bank statements

Brokerage statements

Mortgage statements

Business or Farm financial statements

Rental Property financial statements


4 Financial Aid Form Deadline Schedule

COLLEGE FAFSA PROFILE OTHERIRS

Forms

1Is this a required form Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/NWhat is form duedate? / / / / / / / /








Specific form requirements and deadlines can be found in each of the college’s admissions applications and brochures, or by placing a phone call directly to the college.Popular guidebooks are often one to two years out of date.


The Appeals Navigator

The Purpose

It’s a FACT! College costs can be appealed. Today, colleges are in heavy competition with each other. Although colleges are hesitant to admit it, an outstanding award fromone school will give you the opportunity to appeal for a better award from the otherschools. Use the following sections to navigate the award process and terminology, toproperly position the student to market his/her best attributes to the colleges, and to guideyou through the appeals procedure.

What You Will Do In this Section!

1. Learn how to appeal for an improved financial aid award package using thestudent’s unique abilities, the college’s own personal interests or the family’s special circumstances. Review this section to better understand how this processworks and make note of those categories that best fit your student’s or family’s profile.

2. Review these checklists of possible appeals strategies and mark those that you canbest use to help lower your cost of college.

3. Learn the components of the award letter, what you’re being offered and whether the award is actually beneficial to your pocketbook, or needs to be appealed.

4. Use the included spreadsheet to determine your least, out-of-pocket expense andwhich colleges meet your “TRUE” cost objective, while providing the studentwith the “best educational value”.

5. Once you decide your award letter needs to be improved you may wish to appealyour case to the college. Use these letters as a guideline.


Successful completion of this section will allow you to:

♦ Appeal for an improved financial aid award package.

♦ Achieve the “best educational value” for your dollar.


1 A Quick Lesson in Appealing the Cost of College

Since the baby-boomers left the “Halls of Higher Education”, many schools were left with empty seats to fill to meet their operating budget. Most of these schools areprivate colleges, looking to compete for the better students with the lower cost publicuniversities. The following gives you a quick lesson in the appeals process.Section (2) will explain the strategies of appealing the cost of college.

APPEAL THE COST OF COLLEGE

STUDENTS SPECIAL ABILITIES

GRADESValedictorianSalutatorianNational Merit

SPORTSNCAA INCAA IINAIA

TALENTMusicTheaterSpeech

COLLEGE’S PERSONAL INTEREST

PUBLIC VS PRIVATEMATCHING THE AWARDEMPTY SEATS

FAMILY’S SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

INDEPENDENT STUDENTEXTRAORDINARY INCOMEEXTRAORDINARY EXPENSE


2 Strategies Used to Appeal the Cost of College

The following is a list of possible strategies that can be used to appeal your financialaid award package, and the method to implement them for your benefit. Make noteof those that directly affect your family, as they can reduce your cost of college.

Student’s Special Abilities

Category: Grades & TalentAppeals Hints:

1. Continuous improvement in your grades and test scores can score big points withthe colleges. Even if your grades are average, a great senior year comeback canincrease your probability of receiving grants and scholarships.

2. Many colleges accept credit for CLEP or Advanced Placement (AP) courses and“Postsecondary Option” programs (college classes taken while in high school). Don’t overlook these options for reducing the cost of college. The student’s extracurricular activities and social life may suffer, but the monetary benefits canbe great

3. Be sure you understand the qualifications of the academic or talent grants andscholarships available at each college. Many have simple prerequisites andsome can even be increased, if you ask.

4. Acceptance to a college’s Honors program can reduce your tuition cost by as much as 50%, and can be a plus on your job resume.

Category: SportsAppeals Hints:

1. Send a resume of sports achievement to numerous small colleges. Many NCAAII and NAIA colleges offer sizable grants for athletic ability. If your chances ofbecoming a PRO are slim, a sports-paid education may be your best bet.

2. NCAA Division III schools cannot offer athletic grants for students. But thecoaches have more leeway to convince the Financial Aid Officer that yourstudent’ athleteis a solid candidate for additional need-based monies. Don’t be afraid to ask the coach for help.


Category: Public vs. PrivateAppeals Hints:

1. Although many families don’t believe it, a private college education may not be beyond their reach. Private colleges find it difficult to compete with publicuniversities. To attract good students, the Privates have been known to givesizable tuition discounts. A trip to the Financial Aid Officer can result inadditional monies. Just ask. “How do you reward a good student?”

2. When applying to a private college, be sure to also apply to other colleges that arecompetitive in the same area or location, athletic conference or intellectual fields.Apply to several colleges and increase your opportunity.

Category: Matching the AwardAppeals Hints:

1. Making application to 6-8 colleges allows you to compare awards, and request acollege with a lesser award to match the highest award. A trip to the FinancialAid Officer can result in greater rewards, with “proof in hand.”

Category: Empty SeatsAppeals Hints:

1. Many private colleges today are victims to lower attendance, mainly due to cost.Empty seats do not pay their operating budget. Find the quality schools that havedeclining enrollments, and ask for additional monies.

Category: Wealthy Alumnus or ContributorAppeals Hint:

1. Upper-middle class or wealthy families often assume they must pay FULL pricefor college. However, there are many unadvertised alumni or “special” grants at the college’s disposal to attract future benefactors. A trip to the Financial Aid Officer to inquire about these available monies can often provide positive results,if it will guarantee your child’s future attendance.


Category: LegacyAppeals Hint:

1. Some colleges cater to their alumni and offer “special” grants for a 2nd 3rd or evenhigher generation alumni. If your child decides to attend your alma mater, don’t forget to review these potential grants. Actually, some colleges offer monies for“first generation students.” If your child is the first in your family to attend college, this may be an opportunity to reduce your college cost.

Category: Independent StudentAppeals Hint:

1. Few students can claim independent status and exclude the parents’ income and assets from the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) formula. However, aFinancial Aid Officer (FAO) has the professional discretion to override thesystem and declare a student as “Independent”, if the family has a history of social impropriety. This will require proof from the student in the form of a letterfrom a psychologist, minister or other professional.

Category: Extraordinary IncomeAppeals Hint:

1. The FAO has the professional discretion to exclude one-time income sources (tax-only entries, bonuses, etc.) and treat them as assets only, thereby reducing theEFC. Document your situation and make an appeal.

Category: Extraordinary ExpensesAppeals Hint:

1. The FAO has the professional discretion to include unusual expenses (high schooltuition, medical, dental, etc.) and reduce your income, thereby reducing the EFC.Document your situation and make an appeal

Category: Unemployed ParentAppeals Hint:

1. The financial aid formula uses the base year for income and is often deceiving. Ifa parent is unemployed during the student’s academic year, document the situation and make an appeal. Mid-year changes to an award are commonplace tomany FAOs.


Category: Student DisabilityAppeals Hint:

1. There are many special facilities and grants for students with physical or learningdisabilities. Be sure to check with the FAO at each college.

Category: Parent Attending CollegeAppeals Hint:

1. The Expected Family Contribution can be reduced almost in half, if one parentadvanced his/her own degree (or certification) by attending college at the sametime as the student. This will give a private college the ability to compete withany state university for the student’s talents, by meeting this additional NEEDwith grants. The minimum requirement for the parent is six (6) credit hours for atleast one term, each year.

Category: Unusual Family CircumstanceAppeals Hint:

1. Some families may experience a unique circumstance that disrupts the student’s progress (divorce/separation, etc.) This factor can often be used to offset poorgrades or test scores. Provide solid documentation.


3 Understanding Your Award Letters

Prior to accepting a Financial Aid Package, there are basic Award Letterterminologies in which you must be familiar. Understanding these awards andhow they affect your family will allow you to be more effective in appealing forincreased monies.

Types of Gift-Aid

Federal Pell Grant –grants used to assist low income families

Federal SEOG –The supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is used toprovide additional aid to low income families that receive the Pell Grant

State Supported Grant –Check with the Board of Regents in your State forthese grant qualifications

National Merit Scholarship –Award for a high score on the PSATachievement test.

Direct College Scholarship –Various awards given to outstanding scholars,such as the: Dean’s, Honor’s, President’s, Founder’s, Trustee’s, Faculty, Valedictorian, Salutatorian, Meritous, Distinguished or Academic Scholarship;and scholarships named after a Benefactor or Endowed Program.

Direct College Grant –Various grant-in-aid monies, used to recruit studentswith sports, talent or leadership abilities.

Tuition Discount –Need-based grants (named after the college) used to attractthe better students.

Types of Self-Help

Federal Perkins Loan –A 5% interest need-based student loan in which theinterest is subsidized (paid for) by the Federal government until six months aftergraduation or dropping to less than half time.

Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan –A low interest need-based student loan inwhich the interest is subsidized (paid for) by the Federal government until sixmonths after graduation or dropping to less than half time.

Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan –This student loan is not subsidized bythe Federal government. The interest must be repaid immediately, or can bedeferred (but will accrue) until graduation or dropping to less than half time, whenrepayment must begin.


PLUS Loan – This parents’ loan is not a subsidized loan. It must be repaid immediately or can be deferred (but will accrue) until graduation, then fullpayments must begin.

Federal Work-Study–On-campus jobs that the college makes available toeligible students, but only on a first-come, first served basis. Apply as directed onyour campus.

On the next page, Section 3a demonstrates a breakdown of the various types ofaid and how they may appear on your Award Letter. This will give you aguideline to analyze your own personal Financial Aid Package to make adetermination as to which awards are reasonable, and which may need to beappealed.


3aUNIVERSITY

OF USA

John Doe Date: April 17, 2007121 N. Main Street ID#: 301-44-0000Plentywood, MT59254

Expenses: Expected Family Contribution:Tuition & Fees $14,200 Parents Contribution $1,500Room & Board $4,300 Student Contribution $320

Books & Supplies $600FamilyContribution $1,820

Travel $1,400Other $1,100Total Expenses $21,600

The University of USA is pleased to offer you the following financial assistance for the2007/08 academicyear.

Awards &Resources Total Fall Spring

Federal Pell Grant $520 $260 $260Federal SEOG $1,000 $500 $500Deans Scholarship $2,000 $1,000 $1,000U of USA Grant $10,135 $5,067 $5,068State Choice Grant $500 $250 $250Federal Work Study $1,500 $750 $750Federal StaffordLoan $2,625 $1,313 $1,312Federal PerkinsLoan $1,500 $750 $750PLUS Loan(Optional) $1,820 $910 $910Total Awards $21,600 $10,800 $10,800

A PLUS loan (Parent's Loan for Undergraduate Students) is not Need-based financial aid andcan be received by any family up to the Total Cost of College, minus any other aid received


University of USA Award Letter Analysis

NeedsAnalysis Student AwardTotal Cost $21,600 Gifts $14,155

EFC $1,820Need-BasedLoans $4,125

Need $19,780 Work/Study $1,500Need-Based Aid $19,780 Total Need-Based% Need Met 100% Financial Award $19,780% Gift-Aid 72%% Self-Help 28% PLUS Loan $1,820True Cost $7,445 Total Award $21,600


4 Comparing Your Award Letters

The following schedule will help you determine the TRUE cost of each collegeand which college award will provide the least out-of-pocket expense to yourfamily. Record the total amount of each category (grants, loans, work study) forevery award letter and compare the results for each college.

A B C D-1 E-2 F-3Family

Total Total Total Out-ofCost of Grants/ Work Total "TRUE" Pocket

College CollegeScholarshi

p Study Loans Cost ExpenseExample from 3aon previous page $21,600 $14,155 $1,500 $4,125 $7,445 $1,825

1 $ $ $ $ $ $

2 $ $ $ $ $ $

3 $ $ $ $ $ $

4 $ $ $ $ $ $

5 $ $ $ $ $ $

6 $ $ $ $ $ $

7 $ $ $ $ $ $

8 $ $ $ $ $ $

1 Do NOT include PLUS or Unsubsidized Stafford loans in this total.2 2 “TRUE COST” (E) = A-B3 Family Out-of-Pocket Expense (F)–A-(B/C/D)


5 Appealing Your Award Letters–Sample Letter

Ms. Karen SmithChief Financial Aid OfficerName of College1000 Main StreetCity, State, Zip Code

RE: Financial Award Letter for Heath Jones, 300-44-1919 5/16/2007

Dear Ms. Smith,

Our family would like to thank you for Heath’s recent financial aid award letter; however, we are very concerned with the results. Our family contribution hasdropped from $20,365 in 2006/2007 to $6,987 in 2007/2008, yet your award packageleft us with additional need of over $8,500. The reduction in this year’s EFC is due to a reduction in assets plus the fact that we will be sending two students to collegeduring the 2007/2008 year. Still, the amount of the current award is essentially thesame as the one in 2005/2006.

Every college publication on the market suggests that (Name of College) meets about95% of its student’s need and we have seen (Name of College) Award Letters sent to high school seniors in our area that substantiate this number. I would think that(Name of College) would choose to reward a present student (with a 3.4 average in2006) with an award package equal to, or better than an incoming freshman.

It will be financially difficult for us to continue to send Heath to (Name of College)without a major increase in the amount of aid awarded to date.

We would appreciate your review of our circumstances and a response to our presentaward package as soon as possible, so that we may begin to make alternativearrangements, if necessary.

Sincerely,

Gina Jones, for Heath Jones


5a Appealing Your Award Letters–Sample Letter

Ms. Linda AndersonDirector of Financial AidName of College5000 Main StreetCity, State Zip Code

RE: Financial Award Package for Heather Smith, SS# 100-44-1919 5/28/2006

Dear Mrs. Anderson,

Enclosed is our Student Aid Report and a copy of (Another College’s) Award Letter per our recent telephone conversation. We discussed our family’s present financialsituation and how it would be financially very difficult for Heather to attend (Name ofCollege) unless there is a major reconsideration for financial assistance. You statedthat you would do everything possible to provide additional assistance for Heatherand suggested that we send you the above stated information.

As you know, Heather is a very talented young lady and desperately wants to attendyour school; however, as the enclosed (Another College’s) Award shows, other schools have committed substantially more money for Heather’s education.

Both my wife and I recently obtained new jobs in 2006, and are trying to catch upwith the debt we incurred while unemployed over the past year. This has forced us totake a serious look at the (AnotherCollege’s) Award as an economically viable alternative to (Name of College).

However; Heather would dearly love to attend (Name of College). If there is any wayyou can meet (Another’s College’s) award, Heather will commit to attending your school for the 2006/2007 season.

Please contact me as soon as possible so that we can make the appropriatearrangements for Heather’s future.

Sincerely,

Paul Smith, for Heather Smith


6 Final tips About Appealing the Cost of College

Regardless of the strategies that are unique to your family’s profile, there are seven (7) universal steps that you need to take in order to maximize your appeals success.

Position the student in the top 25% of the incoming freshmen class.

Match the strong points of the student to each college.

Be sure your Expected Family Contribution is as low as possible.

Apply for financial aid as early and as accurately as possible after January 1st.

Apply to at least 6 colleges to increase your financial aid opportunity.

Apply to colleges that fill the highest percentage of NEED.

Don’t be afraid to visit the Financial Aid Officer or even the Admissions Officer to politely ask for more grant or scholarship money. If you don’t try, you won’t succeed.

Following these simple routines will guarantee your child the very best educationalopportunity, for the least possible cost.

The Best of Luck!!


Appendix A

Calendar of Events

Freshman/Sophomore Year Calendar

Check off each box as you complete each suggestion.

Freshman Plan

Develop a recommended class schedule of college preparatory courses accordingto your planned college major. Contact your guidance counselor for assistance

Establish strong study habits and commit to a consistent study routine.

Work on effective time management techniques.

Become involved in a community service project.

Work to enhance your vocabulary skills and your writing abilities.

Learn to use the library effectively, including computer research.

Investigate possible extracurricular activities for your Resume of Achievement.

Begin to think about your sophomore class schedule.

Sophomore Plan

Continue to keep your grades up.

Continue to be involved in a community service project.

Sign up for extracurricular activities–aim for leadership roles.

Consider the teachers from whom you will request recommendations.

Take the PSAT for the first time.

Plan your junior class schedule.


Begin to look for a summer job to help pay for college.

Improve your reading skills over the summer–include newspapers andmagazines.

Junior Year Calendar

September thru December

Review your cumulative grade point average.

Take the PSAT for the second time.


Attend a local College Fair.

Review the Career Search Navigator.

Discuss possible career interests with parents.

Pre-register for the ACT/SAT Achievement Tests.

Review the ACT/SAT Test Prep Navigator.

Take the ACT/SAT Achievement Tests.

Write for catalogs and admissions/financial aid information.

January thru May

Review the EFC Navigator to initiate timely strategies.

Review the College Selection Navigator.

Develop a list of colleges and begin your college selection process.

Review the College Visitation Navigator.

Begin to plan your college visits.

Begin your career interest analysis, research and expert interviews.


Senior Year Calendar

September thru October

Review the Career Search Navigator, again.

Update your career interest analysis, research and expert interviews.

Review the College Visitation Navigator, again.


Plan your college visits, including the various interviews, to narrow the field.

Review the ACT/SAT Test Prep Navigator, again.

Take the ACT/SAT Achievement Tests, again, if necessary.

Review the Admissions Navigator.

Develop a list of references for the Admissions package.

Prepare a list of extracurricular activities for the Admissions package.

Prepare your essay for the Admissions package.

Prepare your Resume of Outstanding Achievement for your Admissions package.

Check with your Guidance Department to apply for local scholarships.

November thru December

Request the recommendations from your teachers for you Admissions package.

Give your Admissions packages to the Guidance Department to add yourtranscript.

Be sure that you know the filing deadlines for both Admissions and FinancialAid.

Apply for admissions to at least six colleges to increase your financial aidopportunity.

Review the EFC Navigator to ensure all strategies have been implemented.


Review the Financial Aid Form Navigator to assure an accurate filing.

Pick up the necessary Financial Aid Applications from the Guidance Department.

Complete all Financial Aid Applications and mail prior to the earliest collegedeadline.

January thru May

Review the Student Aid Report (SAR) and make notes of your EFC.

If the SAR is incorrect, return to Processor with corrections.

If the SAR is correct, hold and send to the college of your final choice.

Send the Verification and IRS forms to each college requesting verification.

Review all financial aid packages sent from the colleges.

Review the Appeals Navigator for all relevant strategies.

If housing deposit is NOT mandatory, request an extension until final decision ismade.

If housing deposit is mandatory, be sure to send request for refund withindeadline.

Review final financial aid award offers and make your final decision.

Send in the signed financial aid award offer with the SAR to your final collegechoice.

Send in the deposit and final grade transcript to your final college choice.

Send in all pertinent loan applications to your final college choice.


Appendix B

Glossary of College TerminologyAmerican College Testing (ACT): A need analysis service located in Iowa, responsiblefor processing the FAFSA form, commonly known as the Free Application for FederalStudent Aid. ACT is also responsible for administering the ACT scholastic exams.

Academic Year (AY): Usually based on semesters or quarters and frequently begins withthe fall semester/quarter, includes the spring semester or winter/spring quarters. Summercan be a header or a trailer.

Accrued Interest: Interest that accumulates on loans and must be paid back at a laterdate. Specifically relates to Federal PLUS loans and Federal Unsubsidized Loans.

ADC or AFDC: Aid to Dependent Children or Aid to Families with DependentChildren. Government benefit programs, similar to welfare programs.

Adjusted Gross Income (AGI): The income figure taken from the IRS income taxforms and required on the various financial aid applications.

Allocation: The amount of money given to an institution by the Department ofEducation for the purpose of funding campus-based program administered by thatinstitution.

Asset Protection Allowance: An asset allowance used in the calculation of the ExpectedFamily Contribution. Specifically determined by the age of the oldest parent.

Award Letter: The official means of notifying financial aid applicants of the assistancebeing offered. The award letter shows the types and amounts of aid offered as well asspecific program information, student responsibilities and the conditions which governthe award. It also provides students with the opportunity to accept or decline the aidoffered.

Award Year: The beginning and end date for which the student receives aid.

Base Year: The period starting January 1 and ending December 31 of the year precedingthe application period.

College Scholarship Service (CSS): Need analysis service, located in Princeton, NJ,which distributes the Financial Aid PROFILE, a financial aid form used mostly byselective private colleges. CSS also administers the SAT scholastic exam.


College Work Study (CWS): A federally funded program that provides college moniesto students through employment in exchange for service to the university, state or anotheragency.

Default: When a borrower fails to make payments on a loan, or has failed to complywith other terms of the loan agreement.

Deferred Admission: A student with financial, personal or work-related concerns candefer or postpone their enrollment for up to one year.

Dependent Student: A student who does not meet any of the Department of Education’s criteria for an independent student generally would be classified as a dependent studentand would report parent information when applying for Federal Student Aid.

Deferred: Contractually suspending the payment of a loan until a later period of time.However, the interest will accrue (build up) and be added to the total repayment.

Early Action: The student can apply to a college by an early deadline to guarantee theiradmission, without obligating themselves to attend that college.

Early Decision: The student can apply to a college by an early deadline to guaranteetheir admission, but is obligated to attend that college under a binding contract.

Early Entrance: The student can be accepted, admitted and enrolled prior to highschool graduation. Many colleges use this guarantee to attract better students.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC): An amount derived from information providedon the free application for Federal Student Aid which is then applied to a formulaspecified in law. Theoretically, a student and family should be able to provide thisamount toward meeting the student’s cost of attendance at a post-secondary school. (Inreality, you may or may not be able to provide the EFC but it is the number used in theCost minus EFC equals need calculation.)

Federal Direct Loan: Federal college loan program in which the lender is the federalgovernment, and the college administers the loan direct to the family.

Federal Family Educational Loan Program: Federal college loan program in whichthe lender and the administrator is a bank, credit union or other private lender.

Federal Methodology: Formula developed by Congress and defined by statute, used toassess both the parents’ and student’s income and assets in order to determine the Expected Family Contribution. Does not consider the home, or family farm, as an asset.

Financial Aid Budget: The Financial Aid Budget is a breakdown of how the collegedetermines the total cost of attendance.


Financial Aid Profile (PROFILE): An institutional information form distributed byCSS. Some colleges may require the PROFILE in addition to the FAFSA to help themdetermine the financial aid package.

Financial Aid Form Acknowledgment (FAFACK): A letter sent to the student tellinghim the CSS has processed his PROFILE. Mailed separately from the Student AidReport (SAR), the acknowledgment gives the student a list of the colleges to whom theSAR was sent and which ones require additional information (such as 1040’s, etc.) This form also allows the student to request his financial information be sent to additional ordifferent colleges.

Financial Aid Form Need Analysis Report (FAFNAR): A report transferredelectronically directly to the college from CSS. It contains information from thePROFILE.

Financial Aid Officer (FAO): The chief financial administrator at each collegeresponsible for determining financial aid packages.

Financial Aid Package: The total amount, and type, of aid that a student will receivefrom one school. It can consist of a variety of programs including federal and statefunded grants and loans, college based programs and any additional aid programs thecollege may make available to the student.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The only financial aid form usedto calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is used to determine theamount of federal and state funds the student is eligible to receive.

Full-Time: A student that is enrolled for at least 12 hours during a quarter or semester.

GPA: Grade Point Average

Guaranteed Student Loan (GSL): Now known as the Stafford Loan.

Gift Aid: Financial aid that does not require repayment or work to be performed (i.e.grants & scholarships).

Grace Period: The length of time that begins when a loan recipient graduates or ceasesto be enrolled on at least a half-time basis and ends when the repayment period starts, or,in some loan programs, the period of time when a deferment ends and loan payment isscheduled to resume. Loan principal need not be paid and interest does not accrue duringthis period.

Graduate and Profession School Financial Aid Service (GAPSFAS): A need analysisservice dealing strictly with the graduate or professional student.


Guaranty Agency: A state or private institution or organization which administersstudent loan, insurance or governmental guarantor programs for the federal government.

Half-Time: A student that is enrolled for at least 6 hours during a quarter or semester.

Housing Index Multiplier Table: A verification formula used by the FAO to determinethe value of a home based on a national average. The formula uses the year the housewas purchased and the purchase price to establish a current value, referred to ingovernment terms as the Implicit Price Deflator.

Independent Student: A student must meet one or more of the following Department ofEducation criteria; 1. Be at least 24 years of age by December 31st of their upcomingcollege academic year. 2. Be an orphan or ward of the court through the age of 18 3. Bea veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces. 4. Have legal dependents other than a spouse or achild. 5. Be married. 6. Be a graduate or professional student. 7. Be judgedindependent by the Financial Aid Officer due to unusual circumstances. 8. Have a childfor whom you provide more than half of the support.

Institutional Methodology: An alternative method of needs analysis, used mostly byprivate colleges, to take a more detailed look at the family’s income and assets, prior to disbursing their own grants and scholarships. Considers the home, or family farm, as anasset.

Merit-based Aid: Financial aid that is awarded to a student based primarily on anyspecial talents that the student may have (i.e., academics, athletics). May also be referredto as non need-based aid.

Need: The difference between the Total Cost of College and the family’s Expected Family Contribution.

Needs Analysis: Method used to determine a student applicant’s need from financialassistance to help meet his educational expenses.

Need Analysis Form: Form completed by an applicant and family for a need analysisservice. The form collects data for the need analysis computations. The most commonforms are the FAFSA and the PROFILE.

Need-based Aid: Financial aid which is awarded solely on the financial need of thestudent and his family.

Off-Campus Student: Student who lives in a house or apartment during the academicyear, as opposed to living on campus. Used as a budget classification.

On-Campus Student: Student who lives in institutional housing during the academicyear. Used as a budget classification.


Origination Fee: A processing fee charged to the student, and deducted from the loanproceeds prior to disbursing the balance to the college.

Parent Contribution (PC): Based on the parent’s income and assets, this is one of two factors used to determine the Expected Family Contribution or EFC (PC+SC=EFC). ThePC is calculated from the information on the FAFSA.

Pell Grant: Grant program funded by the federal government. The maximum award isset annually. Limits change from year to year.

Perkins Loan: A need-based, 5% interest loan subsidized by the federal government.Repayment starts six months after the student graduates or leaves school.

PLUS Loan: A creditworthy loan for education which parents can borrow on behalf oftheir dependant children. Loans are made by commercial lenders such as banks or creditunions.

Professional Judgment: A rule that allows the Financial Aid Officer to make a personaldecision to adjust the EFC calculation data elements, based upon unique or specialcircumstances, to allow a more accurate assessment of the family’s financial condition.

Regular Admission: The student applies for admissions under normal deadlines.

Rolling Admissions: The student can apply for admissions at various times during theyear and is under no deadlines.

Satisfactory Academic Progress: Progress required of a financial aid recipient inacceptable studies or other activities to fulfill a specified educational objective.

Self-help: Aid that must be repaid either through financial obligation or service to theuniversity (or state) i.e., loans, work study

Simplified Need Test: A formula that is an exception to the Federal Methodology.Parents and students that earn under $100,000 of Adjusted Gross Income per year and filea 1040EZ or 1040A tax form can use the Simplified Need Test. This test does notinclude the parents’ or student’s assets when determining the EFC.

Student Aid Report (SAR): The official results from processing the student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The report shows the official ExpectedFamily Contribution (EFC). It must be submitted to the financial aid office at theinstitution the student chooses to attend, in order for the student to receive payment underthe Pell Program or other types of need-based aid.

Student Contributions (SC): Based on the student’s income and assets, this is one of two factors that determines the Expected Family Contribution or EFC (PC + SC = EFC).The SC is calculated from the information on the FAFSA.


Subsidized Stafford Loan: A need based, low-interest loan that is subsidized by theFederal government. Interest and payments on the loan do not begin until after thestudent graduates or drops to less than half time.

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG): A grant for extra needyundergraduate students. SEOGs are granted in the $100 to $4000 range. The collegedetermines how these moneys are distributed.

Unmet Need: When the student’s total financial aid award does not equal 100% of the official calculated Need.

Unsubsidized Stafford Loan: A loan available to students regardless of need; however,the interest will not be subsidized by the government and begins to accrue immediately.

Verification: The process of checking the accuracy of the information supplied bystudents when they apply for federal student aid. Colleges are required by the federalgovernment to verify 30% of their aid applications.


DISCLAIMERThe HOW TO SEND YOUR CHILD (or Grandkids) TO COLLEGEWITHOUT GOING BROKE book are meant to help you save money onyour spending so you can use the money for other purposes. Great amountsof research and effort have gone into compiling this information andensuring its accuracy. While the authors utilize many of the principles andideas set forth, please be advised there may be mistakes, both typographicaland in content, so it is up to you, the student of these materials to treat thisbook as a source of ideas but not as unquestionable truth.

Equally important, the authors cannot anticipate every possible situation andcondition where information from the HOW TO SEND YOUR CHILD (orGrandkids) TO COLLEGE WITHOUT GOING BROKE book could beused and therefore cannot predict all possible outcomes of using thisinformation.

It is possible in some circumstances that specific tips would not be valid orwould be false. It is therefore, the responsibility of the student or reader ofthese materials to decide for themselves whether advice from this course isappropriate forthe reader’s use in general and specific circumstances.The reader must determine potential risk for any course of action and acceptthat risk on their own accord if he or she proceeds. It is also thestudent’s complete responsibility to test and verify Spend Smart advicebefore using advice that could result in physical harm and/or financial loss.

The author and publisher shall have neither liability nor responsibilityto any person, group, or entity with respect to any loss or damagecaused, or alleged to be caused, directly or indirectly by informationcontained in this book. If you are unwilling to accept completeresponsibility for your use and application of any information containedin the HOW TO SEND YOUR CHILD (or Grandkids) TO COLLEGEWITHOUT GOING BROKE book and are unwilling to be bound by allof the above, please return all materials to IYD for a full refund.

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