OPPORTUNITIES PREPARING FOR COLLEGE - GUIDE & WORKBOOK CONNECTICUT 2020-2021 Estimating your college costs - chesla
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OPPORTUNITIES
PREPARING FOR COLLEGE
GUIDE & WORKBOOK
CONNECTICUT 2020-2021
PAGE Estimating your PAGE Tips for completing PAGE
11 college costs 18 the FAFSA 21 Finding scholarships
WE WANT FEEDBACK! SURVEYMONKEY.COM/R /OPPORTUNITIESBOOK
opportunities
Updates to this book
While every effort is made to keep this book up-to-date,
program requirements are subject to change. For complete
information regarding specific programs, contact the
organization responsible for administering that General information
individual program.
Connecticut information
The U.S. Congress frequently considers legislation that could How going to college can
change some of the provisions of the federal student financial
aid programs. If changes are made, a description of these
change your
How going life can change your life
to college
changes will be posted on www.ecmc.org. 2 2 Paths toto
Paths higher education
higher education
3 3 Preparing for college
Most common college types
Availability in Spanish Choosing the right college
To order copies in Spanish and/or download a PDF, Choosing
5 theChoosing
Worksheet: right college
the right college
visit www.ecmc.org/opportunities. 5 Worksheet: Choosing the right college
The college application process
Para ordenar copias Español y/o descargar un PDF, 6 Preparing for college
visite www.ecmc.org/opportunities. The
7 college application process
Entrance exams
9 Submitting your college applications
7 Entrance exams
For administrators and counselors 10 Worksheet: Organize your application information
9 Submitting your college applications
This book is a resource for you to share with students. Worksheet:
10 Navigating Organize
financial aidyour application information
To order free copies of this book, go to 11 Your college costs
www.ecmc.org/opportunities.
Navigating
14 About thefinancial
FAFSA aid
18 Checklist: FAFSA
About ECMC 11 19Your college
Federal
14 21 About
costs aid: Grants, work-study and loans
financial
the FAFSA
Scholarships
Educational Credit Management Corporation (ECMC) is a 18 22Checklist:
Scholarship scams
FAFSA
nonprofit company with a mission to help students succeed. 19 23Federal
Your rights and aid:
financial responsibilities
Grants, work-study, and loans
We work to lower student loan default rates; sponsor college 21 Scholarships
The final decision
access and success initiatives, and financial literacy programs; 22 Scholarship scams
and provide resources to support student loan borrowers 2324YourUnderstanding your award letter
rights and responsibilities
to successfully repay their loans. 26 Worksheet: Make your decision
For more information, visit us online at The final decision
Connecticut high school requirements
www.ecmc.org/about-us.
2427Understanding
Credits needed for award
your graduation
letter
26 Worksheet: Make your decision
Connecticut’s community colleges
28 Programs of study and transfer opportunties
Student checklists
Connecticut college profiler
27 Freshman
2829Sophomore
Public colleges
2929Junior
Private colleges
30Connecticut
Senior financial aid
30 Grants and scholarships
Glossary
30 Loan programs
30 Connecticut 529 college savings program
32 College and financial aid definitions
Connecticut resources
31 Connecticut college directory
34 In-person help
34 Online help
Student checklists
35 Freshman
36 Sophomore
37 Junior
38 Senior
Glossary
40 College and financial
aid definitions
GOING TO COLLEGE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Going to college can
change your life
EMPLOYMENT Your odds of career success are much higher if you attend
RATES & EARNINGS college. This chapter shares some statistics that prove this.
BY EDUCATIONAL
ATTAINMENT, 2019 Be happy Earn more
People who attend college: Going to college costs you money, but
Doctoral $1,883 not going can cost you even more. The
degree
1.1% · Report they have more job satisfaction U.S. Census Bureau’s 2011 American
than those who did not attend. Community Survey reveals that over an
Professional $1,861 · Typically live healthier lifestyles, and are adult’s working life, average total earnings
degree more likely to have access to employer- were as follows:
1.6%
provided benefits including: medical
Master’s $1,497 insurance, retirement plans and paid · High school graduate = $1.3 million
degree time off. · Some college = $1.6 million
2.0%
· Are more involved in their communities · Associates degree = $1.8 million
Bachelor’s $1,248 through higher levels of volunteering · Bachelor’s degree = $2.4 million
degree
2.2% and voting. · Master’s degree = $2.8 million
Source: www.census.gov/library/publications/2011
Finally, talk with people who have gone to /acs/acs-14.html
Associates $887 college—most will tell you it was fun!
degree
2.7%
Paths to higher education
Education pays
Some college, $883 The term “higher education” refers to all
no degree Statistics show that unemployment rates the educational opportunities available
3.3%
decrease in direct relationship to how to you after high school. By knowing
High school $746 much education you receive. The more all available opportunities, you will have
diploma education you receive, the more money you a better idea of what type of college
3.7%
are likely to make. A study by the Bureau of may be a good match for you.
Labor Statistics 2019 (Current Population
Less than high $592
school diploma Survey) supports this, shown in the chart
5.4% to the left. Keep in mind, education is an View college options on
investment in your future.
the next page
All $969
workers
3.0%
Median usual weekly earnings ($)
Unemployment rate (%)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019
Current Population Survey
Note: Data are for persons aged 25 and over.
Earnings are for full-time wage and salary workers.
ECMC prepared this workbook to guide you through the college selection,
application and financial aid process. To reduce confusion, in this book
we refer to all types of higher education institutions as “colleges.”
2
GOING TO COLLEGE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Most common college types
Type of institution Description Degrees offered Admissions
Career and · Can be nonprofit or for-profit, these schools focus on a highly · Certificates of completion · Completed application for admission
technical education specialized curriculum · Associate Applied Science · Proof of high school completion
institutions · Geared for students who want to learn a specific skill and find (AAS)
employment within two years
· Examples include cosmetology, HVAC, culinary and automotive
technology
Community · A college is one institution with multiple academic departments · Certificates of completion · Incoming freshmen and transfers
college · Offers traditional academic, continuing education and remedial · Associate of Arts (AA) · Completed application for admission
programs · Associate of Science (AS) · High school transcript showing proof
Junior college · Offers technical programs, such as cosmetology, HVAC, culinary · Associate Applied Science of high school completion
and automotive technology (AAS) · College transcript, if previously
(2-year) · May offer limited:
· Offers general education prerequisite courses required for most attended
bachelor’s degree programs at four-year colleges and universities · Bachelor of Arts (BA) · College placement testing may be
· Ideal for students looking to transfer to a four-year college and · Bachelor of Science (BS) required depending on the school
pursue a bachelor’s degree, students looking to earn an associate
degree or certificate, and students looking to further their
education
· Some colleges offer a limited number of bachelor’s degree
programs
College (4-year) · A college is one institution with multiple academic departments · Bachelor of Arts (BA) · Incoming freshmen and transfers
· Offers traditional academic programs; may offer technical, · Bachelor of Science (BS) · Completed application for
continuing education and remedial programs admissions
· Offers general education prerequisite courses and upper-level, · Transcript showing successful
major-specific undergraduate and graduate courses completion of high school (more
· Colleges can be specialized in a specific area or liberal selective colleges require a higher
arts based grade point average)
· Liberal arts colleges offer primarily liberal arts majors, yet many · SAT, ACT and/or SAT Subject Test
offer degrees in STEM fields as well scores may be required depending
· Colleges (especially liberal arts colleges) tend to be smaller and on the school
offer fewer majors · Supplemental documents may
include essay, personal statement
and/or academic résumé
· College transcript, if previously
attended
University (4-year) · Offers traditional academic programs; may offer technical, · Bachelor of Arts (BA) · Incoming freshmen and transfers
continuing education and remedial programs · Bachelor of Science (BS) · Completed application for
· Universities usually offer a greater number of majors and are · Master of Arts (MA) admissions
typically larger than colleges · Master of Science (MS) · Transcript showing successful
· Even though universities tend to focus more on technical and completion of high school (more
· Master of Business
specialized majors, most universities have a college of arts and selective universities require a
Administration (MBA)
sciences that offers liberal arts programs higher grade point average)
· Doctorate of Philosophy · SAT, ACT, and/or SAT Subject Test
· The main difference between colleges and universities is size; (PhD)
universities also offer a more diverse curriculum and types of scores may be required depending
There are many other on the school
degrees
graduate and undergraduate · Supplemental documents may
degrees, but these are the include essay, personal statement
most common and/or academic resume
· College transcript, if previously
attended
A note about school accreditation and licensing
Accrediting and licensure agencies agencies, credits earned at one college For more information about accreditation
provide third-party oversight and ensure may not be transferrable to another and state licensing, visit the Department of
the college is providing the quality of college. Check with the Admissions Education at www2.ed.gov/students/prep/
education promised to the student. Due department to determine which of your college/consumerinfo/choosing.html.
to colleges having different accreditation credits will transfer.
3
CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLLEGE
Choosing the right college
Your college selection is an important decision, but where do you start?
Use the tools and resources in this chapter to help you choose where to apply.
Finding the right college Consider your academic To help get you started, visit the following
resources and career assessment websites:
Every person is different. Your background, strengths
interests and personality are just a few · www.bls.gov/ooh—Occupational Outlook
things that make you original and unique. The best way to identify a career field or Handbook with more than 1,500 jobs
major course of study is to look at the descriptions and their likely pay scale.
Depending on many factors, you may find academic subjects you already enjoy, · www.sba.gov—The official website for
preparing for college a simple or very time- especially those in which you perform the U.S. Small Business Administration,
consuming process. Let your personal well. Identify majors that concentrate in dedicated to providing support to small
interests, goals and situation influence these subject areas to ensure selection of businesses across the nation.
your decisions throughout the process. a major you’ll likely enjoy and do well in.
Once you’ve identified a major or majors, · www.careerbuilder.com—Associated with
identify colleges that offer those majors. one of the larger job search websites,
Explore career fields CareerBuilder®. It has numerous career
Base your final decision on the type of exploration quizzes.
Identify careers that interest you and
student you are, your educational goals · www.collegeboard.org—Has many career
determine which majors will best prepare
and what situation best fits your needs. exploration exercises and also provides a
you for that career. Investigate the
Talk to friends, family, teachers and focus on what educational requirements
academic requirements necessary to enter
counselors for help with identifying your are needed to achieve career goals.
into those majors.
goals in going to college.
· www.onetonline.org—The U.S.
Use the worksheet on the following page to Department of Labor’s interactive
do some self-discovery. database of occupational information.
4
CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLLEGE
WORKSHEET: CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLLEGE
STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3
In the top row, Think about important Cross off colleges that
make a preliminary factors you want your college appear to not have what
list of colleges that to have. Then, prioritize you’re looking for. Rank the
interest you. each factor in the level of remaining colleges in order
importance column. of preference.
College (fill in names of colleges that interest you)
Level of
importance Factors to consider 1. 2. 3. 4.
Program of study: Which programs does
the college offer to help you achieve your
career goals?
School size: Do you prefer a large or
small college? What is the student
population?
Class size: How large do you like your
classes to be? What is the
student-to-teacher ratio?
Support programs: Which programs
does the college offer to help you stay in
college and graduate?
City and neighborhood: Do you prefer
a city or a small town? What is the
population of the city or town?
Campus culture: When visiting each
college, get a feel for its “personality.”
How or why does it match yours?
Distance from home: How close do you
want to live to your family?
Extracurricular activities: Do you have
activities in your life that you can’t live
without?
Religious affiliation: Do you want to
attend a college affiliated with your
religious beliefs?
Net Price: While one college may appear
to be less expensive, what will your
final cost be after receiving grants and
scholarships? Use https://collegecost.
ed.gov/net-price to identify your likely
estimated cost.
Financial aid options: Does the college
have special financial aid options?
These could include things such as
a tuition payment plan to spread out
your payments or a guaranteed cost of
attendance as long as you are enrolled.
Outside learning options: Does the
college offer internships, externships,
study abroad or service learning
opportunities?
Housing options near campus: How close
or far is housing? Will you need a car, or
are where you live, shop, and work within
walking or biking distance?
This worksheet can be downloaded here: www.ecmc.org/ChoosingTheRightCollege
5
THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
The college
application process
Depending on your interests and goals, the college
application process could be as simple as filling out one page
for a community college, or as complicated as writing dozens
of essays, taking multiple standardized tests and preparing
portfolios. This chapter will help you organize the process
and stay on track.
Preparing for college INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
ORGANIZATION’S DIPLOMA PROGRAMME
Colleges care about the courses you · Two-year curriculum offered by the
take in high school. The more you International Baccalaureate Organization
challenge yourself when choosing high (IBO) that combines requirements
school courses, the more college options of a mixture of different national
you may have. education systems.
HONORS CLASSES · Offered in English, French, and Spanish,
· More challenging academically. and allow students moving around the
country or from one country to another to
· Typically faster paced; cover topics in transfer among IB schools .
greater depth.
· A list of participating schools from around
· Generally weighted higher for grade the world is available at www.ibo.org.
point average (GPA) but do not earn
you college credit. TECHNICAL PREPARATION (TECH PREP)
PROGRAMS
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CLASSES
· Multiyear program (two or more years in
· More challenging academically; courses high school and two in an occupational/
prepare you to take rigorous exams that technical program at a community or
can lead to college credit. technical college) designed to prepare
· More than 35 AP classes are offered in students for technical occupations.
subject areas. · Expands education and employment
· Your high school may not offer classes opportunities by preparing you for careers
in all AP subjects, but most AP classes in health care, business, industry, labor
are also available online (a fee may and government.
be involved). · Strong emphasis on math, science, and
· After coursework is completed, English—a complete Tech Prep program
students take nationally administered includes the following:
AP exams in their chosen subject areas— · A comprehensive career
if the resulting scores are acceptable development plan
to the college, it might award college
· Courses designed for a specific
credit, advanced placement, or both,
career that integrate academic and
for the course.
occupational preparation
DUAL-ENROLLMENT PROGRAMS · A learning environment that
· Students take college-level emphasizes math, communications,
classes for college credit while science and technology
continuing to participate in regular · A smooth transition from high school
high school activities. to college or employment
· Classes are often offered at high schools
or nearby community colleges.
· Not every high school participates;
contact your high school counselor for
more information.
6
THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
Practice entrance exams Entrance exams Many colleges require or recommend
one or more of the SAT Subject Tests for
There are two tests that help you Many colleges require you to take a college admission or placement. These tests
“rehearse” for taking college entrance entrance exam as part of the admissions provide a dependable measure of your
exams—the PSAT/NMSQT and PreACT. process. There are two primary tests, academic achievement and are a good
Taking these tests will help you identify the SAT and the ACT, and either test predictor of future performance. There are
strengths and weaknesses in skills is generally accepted by colleges for 20 subject tests that fall into the following
necessary for successful college study. You admissions purposes. five general subject areas:
can then focus your preparation on those · English
areas where you could most benefit from THE SAT SUBJECT TESTS
additional study or practice. Your specific
· Math
In addition to the SAT, some students
test results are not reported to colleges. choose to take SAT Subject Tests. The
· History
However, you will receive information from tests are one-hour subject tests with · Science
colleges interested in students testing multiple-choice questions. These tests · Languages (includes English Language
within your range. can complement or enhance your college Proficiency Test)
admission credentials, and measure
THE PRELIMINARY SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE
how much you know about a particular
TEST AND THE NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP
academic subject, and how well you can For more information, visit
QUALIFYING TEST (PSAT/NMSQT)
apply that knowledge. https://sat.collegeboard.org/home.
The PSAT/NMSQT are standardized tests,
usually taken during your junior year that
help you practice for taking the SAT. The
newly redesigned tests are made up of:
ENTRANCE EXAM COMPARISON
· Evidence-based reading and writing
· Reading test ACT (American College Test) SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
· Writing and language test
· Math What is tested ACT measures what you learn in SAT measures what you learn in
high school to determine your high school and what you need
These tests measure the following skills:
academic readiness for college to succeed in college
· Critical reading
· Math problem-solving When to take ACT examination is offered SAT examination is offered
· Writing the test seven times a year in the seven times a year in the
months of February, April, June, months of March, May, June,
In addition, eighth, ninth, and tenth July, September, October and August, October, November
graders may benefit from taking the December and December
PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10.
Registration About five to six weeks before About four weeks before the
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation
deadline the test date test date
uses these scores to determine eligibility
for their scholarship programs. For more Test duration 2 hours, 55 minutes + 40 3 hours + 50 minutes for
information on the PSAT/NMSQT, visit the minutes for optional essay optional essay
College Board website at
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org. Major English, mathematics, reading, Math, reading, writing,
sections science and an optional language and an
THE PreACT TEST
writing section optional essay
PreACT is a multiple-choice test for
sophomores designed to help students Scoring 1-36 400-1600
prepare for the experience of taking the
ACT test. It is patterned after the ACT and Test owned by ACT, Inc. College Board
includes testing in English, math reading,
and science. PreACT score reports offer
Started in 1959 1926
a broad view of students’ college and
career readiness, and provides information
regarding their future performance Website www.act.org www.collegeboard.org
on the exam.
PreACT also offers insights to help students
explore college major and career options DUE TO COVID-19, MANY COLLEGES ARE ELIMINATING THE REQUIREMENT FOR
to start planning for their future. The test is ACT/SAT TEST SCORES. CHECK WITH THE COLLEGE'S ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR
TO DETERMINE IF THEY HAVE TESTING REQUIREMENTS IN PLACE FOR 2020-2021
scored on the same 1-36 scale as the ACT
but includes fewer questions. For more
information on PreACT, visit www.act.org.
7
THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
Testing dates, fees and registration
PSAT
Regular
2020-2021 Late registration
registration Notes Fees Registration
Test dates deadlines
deadlines
September 21, 2020- Check with your Check with your school · Test is administered by · $17 · Online registration is
March 26, 2021 school counselor counselor high schools, not through · Note: Schools may charge not available
test centers an additional fee to cover · You must sign up for
April 13–30, 2021 · Note: Each high school administrative costs the PSAT/NMSQT at
chooses only ONE October · The College Board makes fee your high school or at
test date waivers available to schools another high school in
for students in 11th grade from your community
low-income families that cannot
afford the test fee
· See your school counselor
for more information about
fee waivers
PreACT
Regular registration Late registration
2020 Test dates Notes Fees Registration
deadlines deadlines
September 1-June 1 Check with your Check with your Test administered in Generally no cost to Register with your
each year at your school counselor school counselor school-supervised setting the student school counselor or
school’s discretion or administrator or administrator administrator
SAT
2020-2021 Regular registration Late registration Notes Fees Registration
Test dates deadlines deadlines (online)
October 3, 2020 September 4, 2020 September 22, 2020 · Sunday administrations · SAT: $52 www.collegeboard.org
usually occur the day after · SAT with essay: $68
each Saturday test date · Register by phone: $15
November 7, 2020 October 7, 2020 October 27, 2020 for students who cannot test · Change test center or date: $30
on Saturday for religious · Waitlist: $53
December 5, 2020 November 5, 2020 November 24, 2020 reasons · Late registration fee: $30
· The Language Tests with · Fee waivers are available for
March 13, 20211 February 12, 2021 March 2, 2021 Listening are offered in certain low-income students
November 2020 and May · See your school counselor
2021 for details
May 8, 2021 April 8, 2021 April 27, 2021
· Additional fees apply for SAT
Subject Tests
June 5, 2021 May 6, 2021 May 26, 2021
ACT
20120-2021 Regular registration Late fee required Notes Fees Registration
Test dates deadlines
October 10, 2020 September 17, 2020 August 15-28, 2020 · You can proceed with your · ACT (no Writing Test): $55 www.act.org
October 17, 2020 original test date or you · ACT with Writing Test: $70
October 24, 2020 can request to change it. · Late registration fee: $35
October 25, 2020 However, you will need to · Test date change: $35
pay the basic registration fee · Test center change: $35
December 12, 2020 November 6, 2020 November 7-20, 2020 for the new test date plus · Fee waivers are available for
the test date change fee. If students who meet one or more
you request a date change indicators of economic need
February 6, 2021 January 8, 2021 January 9-15, 2021 after the regular deadline for · See your school counselor
the new date, you must also for details
pay the late registration fee.
April 17, 2021 March 12, 2021 March 13-26, 2021 Your basic registration fee for
the original test date will be
June 12, 2021 May 7, 2021 May 8-21, 2021 refunded.
July 17, 20212 June 18, 2021 June 19-25, 2021
1
ubject Tests will not be offered on this date. SAT Subject Tests will be offered during all of the other dates.
S
Visit https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat-subject-tests/register/test-dates-deadlines to verify which Subject Tests will be offered on each test date.
2
No test centers are scheduled in New York for this date.
8THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
Submitting college Generally, only those who have a clear- A recommendation is a favor. No one is
cut, first-choice college should apply required to recommend you to a college.
applications under these programs. If you believe early Here are some commonly accepted rules of
decision or early action is right for you, etiquette to follow:
Every college has a different application check with the college admissions office to
process with different directions to follow. determine how to apply.
· When giving your references the forms,
Read them carefully and use the worksheet include a pre-addressed envelope to
on page 10 to organize the information for TRANSCRIPTS the appropriate address with the correct
the colleges you are considering. Make amount of postage on the envelope
As part of the admissions process, you or
one copy for each college to keep with your if they are meant to mail it directly to
your school counselor will need to request
application materials. the college.
and submit an official copy of your high
school transcript (and college transcript · Write thank you notes to your references.
Applying to college can seem to be a
if you have already earned some college
daunting task. However, you are not in ESSAYS
credits) for each college where you plan
this by yourself. If you need help, ask for If your colleges require essays, they will
to apply.
it. There are many resources—parents, usually give you specific questions or
teachers, school counselors and volunteer Because many students apply to colleges topics for your essays. Here are some tips
organizations—you can call on to help while still attending high school, to follow:
guide you. acceptances from colleges are often
contingent upon your final high school · Check for spelling and grammar mistakes.
WAYS TO APPLY Most software programs offer this feature,
grades. You will need to send a final
· Paper transcript to the college you will attend. but don’t rely entirely on the computer.
· Electronic · Have someone proofread and provide
RECOMMENDATIONS constructive feedback on your essay
To determine the best way to apply, go to
the admissions page on each college’s If your colleges require recommendations, · Don’t exceed the word limit, if any
website and look for more information. letters or specific forms, you will need to is given.
ask your teachers and/or other adults · Be yourself. Don’t second-guess what
Consider visiting www.commonapp.org. to be references. Some colleges even the college would like you to think or
More than 700 colleges and universities ask for peer recommendations. When say in your essay.
participate in this one-stop for college identifying whom you should ask, consider
admissions where you can apply, your relationship with the person and · Don’t stray from the question/topic.
keep track of college-specific deadlines how well you’ve done in your activities with Everyone goes about the writing process
and more. him or her. differently. Brainstorming and/or outlining
are two methods that might help you.
APPLICATION COSTS Follow the checklists starting on page
Application fees vary among colleges. 27 to stay on schedule.
Many colleges will waive the application
fee, especially for applicants who received Writing recommendations can be time-
fee waivers for taking college entrance consuming for the people writing them.
exams. Check with the college admissions They might also be writing them for other
office to determine the circumstances students. Give your references plenty of
under which the college will waive the time and make sure they are aware of
application fee. recommendation deadlines. One month
before your earliest deadline should be
DEADLINES sufficient, but inquire as to your reference’s
schedule when asking.
Deadlines are important. Be sure to pay
attention to and meet each college’s date
for application. If applying with a paper
application, be careful to note whether
the deadline is based on the arrival or
postmark date. If the deadline is the arrival
date, make sure to include several days for
postal delivery.
EARLY DECISION AND EARLY ACTION Depending on your area of interest your colleges
Many colleges allow you to apply under an
“early decision” or “early action” program. might ask for a portfolio, audition materials, or
Typically, you have to apply earlier than
most applicants, but you also find out other evidence of your talents. Contact the specific
earlier whether you have been accepted.
These programs are not for everyone. program for more information on what to include.
9THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
WORKSHEET: ORGANIZE YOUR
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Make copies of this page, and complete the information for each
college you are seriously considering.
APPLICATION DUE / /
COLLEGE NAME
□ Postmark date □ Arrive-by date
COLLEGE INFORMATION ESSAYS
Essays required? YES □ NO □
Address for application:
Complete
□
City, state, zip: Topic 1:
□
Website: Topic 2:
□
Admissions office phone: Fax: Topic 3:
CEEB code* (College): (High School):
INTERVIEWS
*CEEB codes can be found at www.collegeboard.org.
Interview required? YES □ NO □
Thank you sent? YES □
RECOMMENDATIONS
Interviewer Complete
Requested Received Thank you sent
□
Name:
Reference 1: □ □ □
□
Title:
Reference 2: □ □ □
□
Email:
Reference 3: □ □ □
□
Phone:
VISIT OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Visiting campus? YES □ NO □ Dates of visit: Other requirements? YES □ NO □
Name of person you're meeting Date/time Location Task Complete
□
□
□
CONTACTS
Name Phone Email Notes
This worksheet can be downloaded here: www.ecmc.org/OrganizeYourAppInfo
10NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
Navigating financial aid
Not sure where to begin? This chapter will help you understand the Free Application
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion process, what types of financial aid are
available, and how to stay on course to receive your financial aid.
College costs Tuition Fees
The cost of tuition and fees charged by Many colleges charge fees for other
COST OF ATTENDANCE a college depends on many factors, but services. Examples include:
The cost to attend college is often referred the most significant factor is what kind of
college it is. · Athletic
to as Cost of Attendance (COA). COA is
· Enrollment
used in the calculation to determine
eligibility for financial aid. The COA
Public colleges: Tuition and fees are · Greek societies
generally the lowest because they receive (charge membership dues)
includes both direct and indirect costs.
funds from state taxes. Most four-year and · Health center
Direct costs are fixed costs that are billed two-year public colleges charge higher · Library
tuition for nonresidents than for legal
by the college.
residents of the state in which the college
· Parking
· Tuition is located. This out-of-state tuition can · Student activities
· Fees often make the cost of attending a public · Technology fees
· Room and board (if living on campus) college as high as the cost of attending
Room and board
many private colleges. However, some
Indirect costs are not included on a college Room and board means basic living
bordering state residents may be treated
bill; however, considered in the overall cost expenses for housing and food. Regardless
as legal residents of that state under a
to attend college. of the kind of college you choose, you will
reciprocity agreement. Check with the
have to consider these expenses.
· Books and supplies college admissions office if you are eligible
· Dependent care to receive in-state tuition rates. Colleges with their own housing typically
· Loan fees Private colleges: Tuition is usually higher
charge you on a nine-month basis for
· Personal computer your room and most meals, excluding
than at public colleges. Private colleges
· Personal expenses holiday and vacation periods. The room
do not receive public funding for their
and board charge is built into your COA.
· Study abroad program operations and need to charge more of the
Colleges also expect that students living in
· Transportation real costs to students. However, private
privately owned, off-campus housing have
colleges often have more financial aid
COA is used in the calculation to determine a similar level of expense. Some colleges
resources that can help you make up the
your eligibility for financial aid. The most do not allow students to stay in on-campus
difference between costs and financial aid.
common components of COA are: housing during excluded periods.
The greater your overall cost of attendance,
· Tuition and fees the greater the possibility you will
· Room and board demonstrate need for financial aid.
· Books and supplies
· Personal expenses
· Transportation
Other allowable costs:
· Dependent care
· Loan fees
· Costs related to a disability
· Purchase of a personal computer
· Reasonable cost for eligible study
abroad program
11NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
WAYS TO REDUCE
COLLEGE COSTS
Earn college credits in high
school. You can earn college
credits by taking AP or
IB exams or through dual
enrollment. See page 6
for details.
arn college credits for what
E
you already know. College Level
Examination Program (CLEP)
tests can get you through
college quicker or help you
graduate on time. For details,
visit www.collegeboard.org.
Two plus two. Start at a
community college and
then transfer to a four-year
college to complete your
bachelor’s degree.
Tuition reimbursement. If you
or your parents are employed,
check to see if the employer
offers to reimburse you for
the cost of attending college.
Take
an extra class over the
normal, full-time load. Usually
taking an extra class does
not add to the tuition cost
for the term.
Shop around for textbooks.
Rent or buy used books
and sell them back to the
bookstore or to other students
after the end of the term.
Look online for textbook deals
and consider less expensive
electronic versions.
Graduate on time.
12NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
If you plan to live at home, you are likely to get there at the start of the academic NET PRICE CALCULATORS
to have lower expenses than on-campus year and travel to return home at the end Each college that participates in the federal
students because you do not have to of the year. Most students also go home at financial aid programs is required to have a
pay for housing. You will still need to least once during the year. For financial aid “net price calculator” on its website. These
factor in your cost of food and other living purposes, colleges often budget students calculators can give you a rough estimate
expenses. These costs are usually built into for two round-trips home per year by the of how much it may cost you to attend each
a commuter student budget for financial least expensive means of travel possible. specific college, taking into account aid
aid purposes. you may receive from both the college and
Commuter students will also have travel
federal financial aid.
Books and supplies expenses, whether you use public
As a college student you will spend money transportation or a car to get to and from The estimates provided by different net
on textbooks, notebooks, paper, computer college several days a week. These costs price calculators should not be used to
supplies and the like. The amount you are built into student expense budgets by absolutely rule in or rule out a particular
spend for books and supplies will vary colleges for financial aid purposes. college. The calculator questions vary
only slightly by the type of college, but is from college to college. Because of
related to the curriculum or courses you DETERMINING YOUR OWN COSTS
this, the results may not provide an
select. In some academic fields, such as To determine your own cost estimates, “apples-to-apples” comparison of
nursing and other medical fields, you will remember to consider any additional your net college costs.
spend more on books than in other fields, costs that might result from medical
such as business or communications. bills or extraordinary personal expenses. COLLEGE AFFORDABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY
Some fields will require specific uniforms
The U.S. Department of Education
and equipment that must be purchased,
such as art supplies, a stethoscope or
Estimating college costs designed the College Affordability and
Transparency Center to provide better
lab supplies. Before you file the Free Application for information about college costs. It serves
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), there are as a central point of access to several
Personal expenses ways to get an estimate of how much it
Regardless of the type of college you tools that allow users to compare college
may cost you to attend college. tuition and fees, net price and other
choose to attend, you will have some
personal expenses such as clothing, characteristics including College Scorecard,
You can visit College Board's BigFuture EFC
laundry, toiletries, recreation, medical College Navigator, links to college’s net
Calculator (https://bigfuture.collegeboard.
insurance and medical costs. price calculators and state spending
org/pay-for-college/paying-your-share/
charts.
expected-family-contribution-calculator)
Transportation in order to get an idea of the financial aid https://collegecost.ed.gov
All students spend some money for travel. process. This website can also help you
If you live in a different city than where obtain early estimates of the type of aid
your college is located, you have to travel your family might qualify to receive.
AVERAGE ESTIMATED FULL-TIME UNDERGRADUATE BUDGETS, 2019-20
$1,840
Public two-year TUITION + FEES TRANSPORTATION
in-district $3,730 $8,990 $2,400 $18,420
commuter ROOM + BOARD OTHER EXPENSES
$1,460
$1,230 BOOKS + SUPPLIES
Public four-year
in-state $10,440 $11,510 $2,170 $26,590
on-campus
$1,240
$1,230
Public four-year
out-of-state $26,820 $11,510 $2,170 $42,970
on-campus
$1,810
$1,240
$1,060
Private nonprofit
four-year $36,880 $12,990 $53,980
on-campus
$1,240
$0 $10,000 $20,000 $30,000 $40,000 $50,000
Source: https://research.collegeboard.org/trends/college-pricing/figures-tables/average-estimated-undergraduate-budgets-sector-2019-20
13NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
fafsa
In recent years, more than 98 percent
of FAFSA filers have applied online.
It’s the fastest, the easiest, and simply
the best way to file your FAFSA.
On average, it takes just 23 minutes
to complete the FAFSA online.
About the FAFSA You will need to file the FAFSA each year This worksheet provides a preview of
you will be in college to be considered the questions that you may be asked
COMPLETE THE FAFSA—IT’S IMPORTANT! for aid. Regardless of whether you qualify while completing the FAFSA online. The
Students are required to complete the for federal student aid, if you fail to file questions on the FAFSA on the Web
FAFSA to determine their eligibility for all the FAFSA you will miss out on being Worksheet are ordered as they appear on
federal student aid. Many people do not considered for state and institutional the online FAFSA, although some may be
complete the FAFSA because they assume aid. Assuming you are not eligible skipped online based on your answers to
they will not be eligible for federal aid, can be costly. earlier questions.
or they feel the process is too confusing
Filing the FAFSA is free. Remember—the To complete the FAFSA, you (and your
or complicated.
first word in FAFSA is “Free.” There are parents if you are considered dependent)
Here’s what’s wrong with that thinking: companies that will charge you a fee must provide certain information regarding
to help you complete the FAFSA, but your financial assets, liabilities, and
· Don’t assume you won’t qualify for there shouldn’t be a need to pay for this income. Refer to the following documents:
financial aid. Virtually every student is service. If you do not meet the citizenship
eligible for at least one type of federal requirements for filing the FAFSA, check · Prior-prior year federal income tax returns
student aid. It’s very simple—if you do with the financial aid office at your college (two years prior to the current year; for
not apply for federal student aid by filing to determine if an alternate application example, the the 2021 FAFSA will use
the FAFSA, you will not receive any can be used. 2019 federal income tax returns). Many
federal student aid. applicants may be able to transfer
WHAT THE FAFSA DOES income tax data directly from the
· Eligibility for many state aid programs IRS into the FAFSA using the IRS Data
is determined by your FAFSA data. If you Your eligibility for federal financial aid is
Retrieval Tool.
don’t complete the FAFSA, you simply calculated using the Federal Need Analysis
won’t be considered for state aid, in Methodology, a formula mandated by · W-2 forms and other income records
many cases. Congress. The formula takes into account · Current bank statements
· Many colleges use FAFSA data to your (and your parents’ if you are a · Records of benefits from federal and
dependent student) financial condition. state agencies
determine eligibility for institutional aid
When you complete the FAFSA, you are
(or aid the college offers.) Additional
answering a series of questions to provide It is essential that you provide correct
forms may be required as part of the
this information. information and follow all instructions
application process; contact each
for filing the FAFSA. Mistakes and
college’s financial aid office to find out. · You may find it helpful to first complete incomplete information can lead to
· Many private scholarship programs use the FAFSA on the Web Worksheet delays in receiving aid.
FAFSA data to determine who qualifies for available at https://studentaid.gov/sites/
their scholarships. default/files/2020-21-fafsa-worksheet.
pdf.
14NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
THE STUDENT AID REPORT (SAR) To sign your FAFSA online, you must apply their spouse (when applicable). You are
After you file a FAFSA, you will receive a for an FSA ID; which includes a username automatically classified as independent if
Student Aid Report (SAR) from Federal and password. Your FSA ID is issued by you can check ANY of the following boxes:
Student Aid (FSA) that contains information Federal Student Aid at https://fsaid.ed.gov.
provided on your FAFSA along with your You, and at least one parent if you are a □ I was born before January 1, 1997
Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Your dependent student, will need to have an
FSA ID to electronically sign the FAFSA. □ I am married
EFC is not the amount of money your family
is expected to pay. Rather, you should □ I will be working on a master’s or
Other ways to file include:
think of the EFC as an index colleges use to doctorate program (e.g., MA, MBA,
calculate the amount of financial aid you · PDF FAFSA that you download, complete MD, JD, PhD, EdD, graduate certificate)
may qualify to receive. While your family is and mail—go to www.fafsa.ed.gov/
expected to contribute toward your cost of □ I am serving on active duty in the U.S.
options.htm and click on “Complete a Armed Forces
education, the amount of this contribution PDF FAFSA.”
will be determined by the financial aid □ I am a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
office at your college.
· Paper FAFSA that you request, complete
and mail—to get a paper FAFSA, call
□ I have children and I provide more
When you complete the FAFSA, you 1.800.4.FED.AID (1.800.433.3243) than half their support
indicate the federal school codes for the If you are hearing impaired, contact the
colleges you are interested in attending. TTY line at 1.800.730.8913. □ Since I turned age 13, both of my
These colleges receive the information parents were deceased
DOMICILE (RESIDENCY)
you provided on the FAFSA. Based on this
On the FAFSA, domicile is referred to as □ I was in foster care since turning age 13
information, each college will determine
the amount and types of aid for which your “State of Legal Residence.” A person’s □ I have dependents (other than my
you are eligible. domicile is their present, fixed home to children or my spouse) who live with
which they return following temporary me and I provide more than half of
You will receive an award letter from each absences and at which they intend to their support
college that accepts you for admission. stay indefinitely. To be eligible for in-state
The letter outlines the total financial aid tuition benefits and most state-supported □ I was a dependent or ward of the
package (grants, scholarships, work-study financial aid, you must have established court since turning age 13
and loans) for which you are eligible. domicile for at least one year prior to
Financial aid officers at the colleges can the first day of class. Minors are presumed □ I am currently or I was an
emancipated minor
answer questions regarding the SAR and to have the domicile of their parent or
award letters. See pages 24-25 for more legal guardian. □ I am currently or I was in legal
information about award letters. guardianship
Domiciliary intent is determined using
FILE THE FAFSA ONLINE-IT'S FAST! many factors. These could include paying □ I am homeless or I am at risk of
· Go to www.fafsa.gov. state income tax as a resident, registering being homeless
to vote in the state, owning property,
· This is the fastest and most accurate way permanent employment, sources of If none of these criteria apply to you,
to file and get results—your application financial support and economic ties with you are a dependent student. See
is automatically edited for errors as you the state. The burden is on the applicant to https://studentaid.gov/dependency
complete it to ensure your information is provide sufficient information to establish for more information.
as accurate as possible . domiciliary intent.
· When your FAFSA information is In addition, the financial aid office at
transmitted over the Internet, it is Contact the registrar’s office at your college your college can determine if you should
completely secure. for more information. be considered independent if special
circumstances exist, but this occurs only
· Easy to navigate with extensive online INDEPENDENT VS. DEPENDENT STATUS in rare circumstances.
help including live chat, email and phone
options available. In determining financial need, one of the
most important factors is whether you are
classified as a dependent or independent
student. Dependent students must
include parental information on the FAFSA.
Independent students should include
COMPLETION OF information only on themselves and
THE FAFSA IS THE
SINGLE MOST
IMPORTANT PART OF
THE FINANCIAL AID
PROCESS.
15NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
MYTH #1 MYTH #4
It’ll take a long time to create my FSA ID. I need an email address or mobile phone
On average, it takes about seven minutes number to create an FSA ID.
to create an FSA ID. Federal Student Aid You do NOT need an email address or
has a variety of resources, such as this
9 MYTHS
mobile phone number to create an FSA
helpful video, that walk you through ID. If you don’t have an email address
each step of creating an FSA ID. or mobile phone number, you can leave
www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdaGZASwjZU those fields blank. However, adding this
ABOUT THE MYTH #2
information is strongly recommended.
Once your email address is verified, you
can enter your email address instead of
FSA ID Only students need to create an FSA ID.
If you are a dependent student, then
your username when you log in. You can
also use your email address or mobile
phone number to retrieve your forgotten
your parent will need his or her own FSA
username or password or to unlock your
ID in order to sign the Free Application
account. It’s easy to update and verify your
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form
email address or mobile phone number by
electronically. That’s because you will need
going to https://fsaid.ed.gov and clicking
to provide your parent’s information on
on the “Manage My FSA ID” tab.
your FAFSA form, and your parent will
As of April 2017, 45 million need to sign the FAFSA form as well.
MYTH #5
But here is something very important:
FSA IDs have been created, Your parent must create his or her own,
As a parent, I can use the same email
and people have used their separate FSA ID. Your parent shouldn’t
address or mobile phone number for both
use your FSA ID, and you shouldn’t create
my FSA ID and my child’s FSA ID.
FSA ID more than 315 million an FSA ID for your parent.
An email address or mobile phone number
times. With any new process, If you’re not sure if you’re a cannot be used with more than one FSA
there are some myths floating dependent student, visit ID. If you’re a student and you choose to
https://studentaid.gov/dependency. provide an email address and/or mobile
around about creating and phone number when creating your FSA
using an FSA ID. Visit MYTH #3 ID, you’ll need to include your own email
address and/or mobile phone number.
www.ed.gov/content/9- It’s okay to let someone else create Your parent will need to include his or her
myths-about-fsa-id-0. or use my FSA ID. own email address and/or mobile phone
number when creating his or her FSA ID.
Not okay. Each individual person needs
to create his or her own FSA ID. If you’re a If you don’t have an email address or
parent, you should NOT create an FSA ID for mobile phone number, you can leave
your child. If you’re a student, you should those fields blank.
NOT create an FSA ID for your parent. Why?
For example, if a parent tries to create both MYTH #6
the parent’s and child’s FSA IDs, it’s easy to
I need an FSA ID to fill out the FAFSA form.
mix up information such as Social Security
numbers, dates of birth, and usernames The fastest way to sign and submit your
and passwords. Because Federal Student FAFSA form is to use an FSA ID. That said, if
Aid verifies your information with the Social you or your parent don’t have an FSA ID, you
Security Administration, it’s crucial that this can still submit the FAFSA form. If you fill out
information be correct. Also, if someone the FAFSA form online but don’t have an
else creates your FSA ID, how will you know FSA ID, you can choose the option to submit
the answers to your challenge questions your FAFSA form without signatures, and
if you need to retrieve a forgotten username then print and mail a signature page. If you
or password? can’t fill out the FAFSA form online, you have
other options.
Most importantly, FSA IDs are used to
sign legally binding documents, so giving Students without access to a computer
someone access to your FSA ID is like can receive FAFSA assistance from a wide
allowing them to forge your signature. Be range of college access organizations, such
sure to create your own FSA ID, and save as the National College Access Network.
yourself the trouble. A student can also visit a local library, use
a computer at school, or get help from a
school counselor.
16NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
MYTH #7 MYTH #9
The Social Security Administration I forgot my password, and it’s going to
(SSA) has to verify my information take 30 minutes to reset it.
before I can use my FSA ID.
The easiest way to reset your password
If you’re filling out a FAFSA form for the first is by using your verified email address
time, you can use your newly created FSA or verified mobile phone number. If
ID to sign and submit your FAFSA form right you reset your password using one of
away. But, if you need to submit a renewal these options, you can use your FSA ID
FAFSA form or make corrections after immediately. You have to wait 30 minutes
you’ve submitted your FAFSA form, you only if you reset your password using
first have to wait for the SSA to verify your your challenge questions.
identity before you can use your new FSA
ID. The verification process takes There are lots of resources online to help
one to three days. you create and use your FSA ID; visit
https://studentaid.gov/fsaid for more FSA
When creating your FSA ID, make sure to ID information. In no time, you’ll have your
enter your information exactly as it appears very own FSA ID, too!
on your Social Security card to avoid
delays. Once your information is verified,
you can use your FSA ID to submit your
renewal FAFSA form, make corrections,
access your loan history and a host
of other things.
If you’re a parent, you never have to wait
for the SSA match to sign your child’s
FAFSA form. However, if you sign the
FAFSA form when your SSA match status
is listed as “pending” and it later returns
“no match,” Federal Student Aid will
remove your signature from your child’s
FAFSA form. If that happens, you will either
need to resolve the conflict with the SSA
and sign electronically again, or you’ll need
to print and mail a signature page.
MYTH #8
Confirming my email address or mobile
phone number can take up to 24 hours.
You should receive your mobile phone
verification code and email confirmation
within three minutes. If you don’t, your
email account’s spam filter could be
the culprit. It’s a good idea to add the
FSA ID email address—@ed.gov—to
your address book to make sure you get
your confirmation.
CREATE YOUR
FSA ID TODAY
https://fsaid.ed.gov/npas
17NAVIGATING FINANCIAL AID
Checklist: FAFSA Tips for completing FAQs about completing
PREPARING FOR THE FAFSA the FAFSA the FAFSA
Check as you prepare to file the FAFSA: Meet all financial aid deadlines. You are considered a dependent student
but have no contact with your parents.
□ If filing the FAFSA online, you, and · Check each college’s deadline and/or What should you do?
at least one parent if you are a “priority filing date” and file your FAFSA
dependent student, must sign the in time to meet those deadlines. Submit your FAFSA without any parent
application. Both of you will need an · Contact the financial aid office regarding data. You will receive a request for
FSA ID. You may each apply for an other applications or forms you may be information from your college financial
FSA ID at https://fsaid.ed.gov. required to submit. aid administrator. If you do not receive
a request for information, contact
□ If using the PDF FAFSA, go to Sign the FAFSA appropriately. the financial aid office and request a
www.fafsa.gov. If using the paper “Dependency Override.” The college
FAFSA, request one by calling
· You and your appropriate family member financial aid administrator can use
will need to acquire an FSA ID from
1.800.4.FED.AID (1.800.433.3243). professional judgment to determine
https://fsaid.ed.gov to electronically
if a student should be treated as an
sign your online FAFSA. Failure to do so
□ Find the federal school codes for your independent student. You will need
may cause you to lose out on financial
colleges at www.fafsa.gov to provide the financial aid office
assistance you may be otherwise
documentation of your circumstances.
FILING THE FAFSA qualified to receive.
The financial aid administrator will not
Check as you complete the FAFSA: List all the colleges to which you are automatically change your dependency
applying for admission. status just because you request it. The
□ You and the appropriate family decision is based on the financial aid
members have signed the forms · Your FAFSA information will only be sent administrator’s judgment based on
to the colleges you specify (you may list the facts of your specific situation,
□ You have listed all the colleges to which up to 10). and is final.
you are applying for admission · Each college has a six-digit federal
school code. What’s the easiest/fastest way to
□ You have printed a copy or made complete the FAFSA?
a copy of your completed FAFSA for
· Visit www.fafsa.gov to search for federal
school codes. To make filing easier, the U.S. Department
your records
of Education offers the IRS Data Retrieval
Contact your college to report special Tool to automatically transfer tax
□ If you do not have enough room for all circumstances. information from the IRS directly into the
your colleges, list your first 10 choices
· Since the FAFSA does not include space FAFSA. This tool is available for those
on the FAFSA. Once you have received
for you to explain special financial who have completed their prior-prior year
your valid SAR, you can then edit the
circumstances unique to you and your taxes at the time of FAFSA filing. Go to
college list so that your FAFSA data is
family, an explanation of the situation www.fafsa.gov to learn more about
transmitted to the remaining colleges.
should be communicated directly to the using the tool.
Note: Do not send information about college(s) to which you’re applying.
special circumstances to the colleges What if you are a dependent student, but
· Special circumstances might include your parents are divorced or separated?
listed on the FAFSA until you contact the unusual medical bills, an impending
financial aid offices about your application Whose financial information should be
divorce, expected unemployment or other used on the FAFSA?
information. The financial aid offices will situations.
tell you what is needed. You should report information about the
· Do not mail this correspondence with
your FAFSA because this could slow parent you lived with the majority of the
down the processing of your financial time during the year before the date you
aid application. file your FAFSA. If you didn’t live with either
parent, or if you lived with each parent an
Do not delay completing the FAFSA equal amount of time, report information
because you are waiting to hear if you about the parent who provided the greatest
THREE TYPES OF have been accepted to a college. amount of financial support during the
FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID— year before the date you file your FAFSA.
· You should file your FAFSA as soon If you didn’t receive any parental financial
GRANTS, as possible on or after October 1
regardless of whether or not you have
support during that time, you must report
information about the parent who most
WORK-STUDY been accepted to college.
· Waiting until you have been accepted
recently provided the greater amount of
parental support.
& LOANS. could result in missing important financial
aid deadlines, making you ineligible for Do you report stepparent information?
financial aid you might otherwise have
Information about both of your parents
been able to receive.
(biological or adoptive), as long as they are
living together, is required on the FAFSA,
regardless of their marital status or gender.
18You can also read
