Paying For Your Education:
Financial Aid
For most students and their parents or guardians, the most immediate concern regarding college is financial. While it is true that the cost of a traditional four-year college education is expensive, it can still be within reach through financial aid assistance.
Financial aid for college is available from a variety of sources. Financial aid awards are based principally upon need, as determined by the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS (College Scholarship Service)/Financial Aid PROFILE. The best source of information regarding any questions you may have are the financial aid officers of the college(s) to which you are applying. They can supply valuable information regarding the financial aid process at their college, and give more detailed information about the money and scholarship packages available to students.
Financial Aid comes in a variety of ways and may include:
- Grants: "Free" money that the student does not have to pay back.
- Loans: Money that has to be repaid, usually with a lower interest rate and a deferred payment schedule up to 6 months after graduation.
- Federal Work Study: Federally funded campus employment through the financial aid office - based on need of student.
- Scholarships: Merit awards that do not have to be paid back.
- Commitment to Military Service: ROTC programs and the National Guard offer scholarships for college. After graduation, 4-6 years of military service may be required.
Still Confused About Financial Aid?
Here is some additional information and helpful links:
Every year West Stanly holds a senior financial aid night. The one for the 2010-2011academic year is scheduled for November 10th, 2010 at 7:00 pm in the WSHS media center. We will have the regional representative from CFNC, Ms. Timeka Ruffin, come and speak to students and parents about the financial aid process and the steps that must taken to ensure getting as much money for college as possible. There is always a question and answer session after the presentation. See you there!!
The Counseling Department publishes the Senior Notes monthly, giving seniors information about national, state and local scholarships! This is an excellent resource for local scholarship money that is available!!
Be sure to fill out the FAFSA form as soon as possible after completing your 2011 tax return! All federal money given to students for college is based on the information gained from this form! It's that important!
You should never, ever, pay money to get scholarship money! All legitimate scholarships do not require any out-of-pocket money on your part! Beware financial aid scams!
Beware financial aid myths!! For a comprehensive list of common aid myths, click here.
Financial Aid Links
Information At Your Fingertips!