Financial Aid
Students are encouraged to gather financial aid and scholarship information that is applicable for their own circumstances and college application process. Students should not necessarily let the price of a particular college dissuade them from applying for admission. Many financial aid programs exist to help you meet all college costs: tuition, fees, books, room and board, personal expenses and transportation. The expected family contribution will remain fairly constant regardless of the cost of a particular college or university. The difference between family contribution and total cost will be made up in financial aid (i.e. grants, loans, work-study).
Each college presents to applicants a "financial aid package" determined by financial need calculated from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some colleges also require the CSS Profile, in addition to the FAFSA. If you apply for aid, you will receive packages from all the colleges you apply to in the Spring of your Senior year. Students and their parents should compare amounts and types of aid to determine which is most beneficial.
The FAFSA is available online. It can be completed/filed in October. The CSS Profile is available in September and should be filed (if required) as soon as the student identifies the schools to which he/she will apply.
The most valuable financial aid resources are the financial aid professionals at local colleges and universities. Many welcome inquiries during the application process. It is the student's responsibility to contact financial aid offices, complete and file financial aid and scholarship applications, meet all deadlines and supply the necessary information.
Students are encouraged to visit the Counseling Office on a regular basis for information on available scholarships.