The Process

You may be a prime candidate to receive a scholarship if:

• you are diligently applying yourself at your present high school or college;
• you have participated in community service, extracurricular activities, sports, etc.;
• you have a demonstrated financial need; or
• there are extenuating personal circumstances.

Timeline for scholarships and financial aid

Knowing the timeline is key to your success. Each year, valuable time is wasted pursuing missed deadlines. Keep on track by conducting your search 12 months ahead of time. We have put together a timeline you may find helpful when pursuing financial aid or scholarships. Remember, begin EARLY and be PREPARED!

High school junior: fall

• Think about what field you want to major in.
• Contact those colleges or universities you are interested in applying to and request a catalog. Ask for a listing of scholarships that may be available to you if you attend.
• Meet with your high school counselor to begin your scholarship search.

High school junior: spring

• Keep a master file for all of your college and scholarship information. Also, make copies of all correspondence you send.
• If possible, visit the college(s) you’re interested in. Maybe even sit in on a class.
• Take the SAT or ACT. If the college asks for the Achievement Tests, take those as well.
• Develop a resume of extra-curricular activities, community service, job experience, sports, etc. and awards and keep it updated.
• Request admissions and financial aid forms from schools.

High school senior: fall

• Check with your guidance counselor about scholarships that are available to seniors at your local school. New scholarships may be available.
• Look for financial aid for your freshman year at college.
• Think about what you want to say in your college essay. If possible, prepare an outline or rough draft and run it by one of your teachers or parents for review.
• Ask teachers, coaches, church ministers, or others who know you, but are not related to you, to write letters of recommendation. The number required by each college is different but included in their admission materials.
• Send applications to the colleges to which you’re applying.
• Attend financial aid and scholarship workshops.

High school senior: spring

• File the FAFSA or other required forms. Be sure to include both student and parent signatures and list all of the colleges you are interested in attending.
• Submit financial applications as soon as possible after January 1. Financial aid is generally awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Decide which college you want to attend after receiving acceptance and financial aid information from the schools in writing.
• Sign the financial aid award letter and return it by the deadline indicated.
• Notify the college’s financial aid office of any scholarships you will be receiving.

Late summer – early fall

• You may be eligible to test out of some basic general education courses. Be sure to check with the college counselor. Testing out of classes can save you time and money.
• Time to turn over money to your college and start classes!!