Dear Students and Parents,

This college handbook has been created to provide juniors and seniors at Archer High School with the information and resources necessary to prepare for their post-secondary plans. With so many technical schools, colleges and universities to choose from, it is common to feel overwhelmed when starting the college planning process. Decision making and life transitions can be less stressful if we are empowered with information, resources and the appropriate support systems. The Archer High School Counseling Department hopes that this handbook will be useful in your college planning process by empowering students with the tools necessary to make well-informed decisions about their post- secondary options.

Please feel free to explore the information and resources provided in this handbook and on our counseling website. Please schedule an appointment with your counselor online if you have any questions. We are looking forward to working with you this school year!

The Archer High School Counseling Department Table of Contents • Archer: Who is My Counselor? • GCPS 4-year Plan of Study • Credit Checklist • Senior College Planning Checklist • Big Future: List of Georgia Colleges • GCPS College Search Worksheet • Sending Transcripts and HOPE GPA • College Board Application Timeline • College Board Application Checklist • Find a Major Worksheet • Find a College Worksheet • Find a Career Worksheet • Find a Scholarship Worksheet • College Funding presented by the GCPS Choice Book • College Board Financial Aid Checklist • Scholarships, College, Military and Career Resources • School Cost Comparison Worksheet • Financial Aid Comparison Worksheet • Standardized Test Facts Sheet • SAT vs. ACT Comparison Graph • SAT & ACT Prep Resources • SAT & ACT 2018-2019 Test Dates • Tips for your College Application Essay • HOPE & Zell Miller Programs • HOPE & Zell Miller FAQ’s • Financial Aid Process Graph • Federal Student Aid Guide • Federal Student Aid – Find the Info You Need • FAFSA Process Sheet • FAFSA Practice Worksheet • CSS Financial Aid Profile THE FOUR-YEAR PLAN AND CAREER CLUSTERS/PATHWAYS

The Four-Year PIan takes into consideration your academic abilities, career goals, interests, and plans for additional education beyond high school. The purpose of the plan is to familiarize you with graduation requirements and to get you thinking about life after high school... What you want to do with your future, where you want to go, and what,you need to do in high school to make it happen. Each spring, you'll register for classes for the next year. Your teachers will advise you about a recommended course selection and level of difficulry based on your prior academic performance. As a result, your initial plan might change with future registrations. While teachers, counselors, advisors, and adminis- trators will make every effort to give you the best advice, ultimately, you are responsible for taking the correct courses for graduation. Make sure your parents know your plans and keep them updated on your progress toward meeting requirements for graduation. Talk to your counselor or advisor if you have any questions. The following list of required courses and course sequences is designed to help you as you develop your Four-Year Plan. Please keep in mind that these sequences may be modified to accommodate special circumstances. However, the majority of students will ad- here to the course sequences listed below Unless noted, you would take a fiill year (1 credit) ofthe designated course. Career Clusters/Pathways Georgia students choose a Career Cluster/Pathway. Under this model, you- with the help of parents, teachers and guidance counselors- will choose a Pathway in one of t7 Career Clusters, or in the areas of Advanced Academics, World Language, or Fine Arts. You can select your Pathway based on what you want to do after graduation and take a core set of classes and electives based on your chosen field. You have the freedom to switch Pathways or Clusters if you discover a particular area is not your passion. You can choose Pathways that lead to two-year, four-year, or technical colleges, or directly into careers. See page 20 for an oyerview, and pages 40-41 for details. The Four-Year Plan Worksheet (for a regular-schedule school or block-schedule school) is on the following pages, Specific course descriptions can be found an Pages 26-39. Gified and Honors sections are designated by local schools. ffir"nnu"neArts-4Units @ sr"iul Studies - 3 Units a 9th Grade Literature and Composition o . World History orAP World History 1Oth Grade Literature and Cornposition . U.S. Historyo orAP U.S. History a 11th Grade American Literature and Composition o . Economics o or AP Macroeconomics o or or AP English Language and Composition with AP Microeconomics o (% Unit) Arnerican Literature focus o . Political Systems or AP American Government 12th Grade British Literature and Composition (YzUnit) or AP English Language and Composition or AP English Literature and Composition @ neamn and Physieal Education - 1 Unit Personal Fitness (r/z and IEN Unit) (3 lffilEl Mathematics - 4 Units Health (%Unit) or IROTC Units) Students will be placed in mathematics courses based Modern or Classical Language*, Fine Ats, on their achievement in the prerequisite course or local N N 5- Career andTechnical Education** Units school decision. (See page 24 for recommended sequenc- G_LaaU -3 es.) Mathematics is required every year. Four units, Any combination. including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra iI, or their *Note: At least 2 units of the same Modern or Classical equivalent, are required for graduation. An End of Language are requiredfor admission to University System Course assessment is required for Algebra I o and for of Georgia schools, Be aware of requirements for your Geometry o or the accelerated equivalent, possible colleges, nrl , lJHlscience-4Units Additional Required Electives - 4 Units . Biologyo Any combination. . Chemistry (C . Physics or AP Physics I State-mandated End of Course assessment required. Permission required AP classes. . Approved Science Elective for 2016-17 Chr:ice Bocl< four-year plan and career clusters/pathways I Zt N) N) TENTATIVE FOUR.YEAR PLAN OF STUDY FOR STUDENTS ENTERING REGULI\R.SCHEDULE HIGH SCHOOL IN 2016-17 o F Student Student Number 3 Teacher/Advisor Academic or Career/Technical Education Pathway g StudentSignature Date Plan Completed o) f + o a o- GRADUATI O N REOUIREMENTS o, T Modern or Glassical Language*, U' c} Health & Fine Ails, Gareer and Technical o= Subjeci Language Arts - [A Mathematics - MA Science - SC Social Studies SS Physical Education Education Electives Total o- - Credits 4 Credits; including 4 Credits; including 4 Credits; including 3 Credits; including 1 Credit; including 3 Credits {Any Combination) 4 Credits 23 Credits o 'l Bequired Credit Gr. Lit. f- of 9th Algebra l, Geometry, Biology, Chemistry, 1 Credit World History, .5 Credit Personal Fitness, (o' & Comp., and and Algebra ll Physics, and science 1 Credit U.S. History and .5 Credit Health or t' (or eQulvalent) elective .5 Credit Political 3.0 Credits JB0T a ;q1 /O\ :to Systems, and \i) /i o if!'J,ffi ffi tffitil W .5 Credit Economics o - w esd d Gifted and Honors sectlons are designated by local schools. *2 credits of the same modern or classical language are required for university admissions in the state of Georgia. MY CHOICES !)th Grade llXh Grade llth Grade 12th Grade l For piomotion to 10th gladei5 Gredils-:: .For.promotion to 1lth qrade:11 Credits,: :.* 'i ^.:: r.^:..- --r.:.. LA MA LA LA LA SC MA cn o) bSC oou o) SC o 6 o) (DJ) 3SS o) SS E E E E q) (lJ o o, a U) cn U) o a o o LA

Ni MA LA LA LA

SC MA MA MA

Find year-by-year worksheets under "Postsecondary Planning Resources" on the Parents tab of the GCPS website (vvww.gwinnett.ktZ.ga.us). i:" English Learner (EL) students may need to attend EL Summer School. CREDIT EVALUATION Applies to students starting high school in 2008-09 and beyond

Student Name Student # Date

High School Diploma

LANGUAGE ARTS 1st Semester 2nd Semester NOTES:

• Foreign Language - Students planning to enter 9th -CP, Hon, Gifted, AP or transfer into a University System of Georgia 10th -CP, Hon, Gifted, AP 4.0 Units Units 4.0 Required Institution (four year college) or other post th 11 -CP, Hon, Gifted, AP secondary institution (two year college) MUST th 12 -CP, Hon, Gifted, AP take minimum two years of foreign language. • CTAE Pathways – students take a coherent SCIENCE 1st Semester 2nd Semester sequence (ex Business, Cosmetology, FCS) of

Biology – CP, Hon, Gifted, AP courses through a selected pathway to prepare Chemistry – CP, Hon, Gifted, AP for career readiness after high school. .0 Units 4 Required th Physics – CP, Hon, Gifted, AP • EOCT - Students entering 9 grade in 2011 4th Science & beyond must pass BOTH EOCT courses and take the EOCT exam offered per core subject nd MATH 1st Semester 2 Semester

Math 1/Acc Math 1/Acc Math 2 Math 2/Acc Math 2/Acc Math 3 .0 Units 4 Required Math 3/Acc Math 3/Stat/Cal Testing ____ 9th LA EOC ____ Bio EOC ____ Gateway – Math 4/Acc Math 4/Stat/Cal ____ 11th LA EOC ____ Physical Sc EOC Science ____ Alg 1 CC EOC ____ US History EOC ____ Gateway – OCIAL TUDIES 1st Semester 2nd Semester ____ Geom CC EOC ____ Econ EOC Social Studies

S S

World History - CP, AP 3.0 Units Units 3.0 Required US History - CP, AP Econ, Political Systems Promotion Requirements Promotion to 10th grade: 5 Credits CTAE* AND/OR MOD/CLASSICAL LANG/LATIN AND/OR FINE ARTS Promotion to 11th grade: 11 Credits 1st Semester 2nd Semester Promotion to 12th grade: 17 Credits

quired

3.0 Unit Unit 3.0 Graduation Requirements: 23 Credits Re

*CTAE= CAREER, TECHNICAL, AND AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION Counselors 9th A-Z Cayla McMichael

PHYSICAL/HEALTH EDUCATION 10th - 12th A-GL Blair Morton th th 10 - 12 GM-O Kim Spence Health th th 1.0 Unit Unit 1.0

Required 10 – 12 P-Z Erin Kilpatrick Personal Fitness

ELECTIVE UNITS 1st Semester 2nd Semester Legend

√ = Credits Earned Pink Highlighter = Currently Taking 4.0 Units Units 4.0 Required Yellow Highlighter = Next Year

TOTAL UNITS (MINIMUM) 23.0 UNITS

CREDITS TOTAL

Revised 8/1/2012 Senior College Checklist

Fall o Review your credits and graduation requirements o Make sure that your Social Security Number is on file at Archer HS o Make sure that your GaFutures account is working (all personal information in your account including SSN) o Take and/or retake the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, ACT and Compass, depending on what your schools of interest require. o Research colleges/universities/tech schools. o Consider - school size, cost, scholarships offered, location, majors, environment and admissions requirements. o Go on college visits - Pre-arranged college visit forms can be found on Archer's Attenda nce we bsite. o Finalize your college list to about 4-6 schools. Be sure to include 1 reach, L middle of the road and 1 safe school. o Pay close attention to college admissions, financial aid and scholarship application deadlines. lt is the student's responsibility to meet all deadlines. o Complete a Brag Sheet - ask your counselor and teachers if they would be willing to write a recommendation for you. Brag Sheets can be found on Archer's Counseling website, Remember there is a L0 school day turnaround for all recommendation letters. O Research and apply for scholarships. Search on GaFutures, Archer's scholarship page and college financial aid offices. o Write, proofread and edit your college admissions essays. o Complete and submit college applications and transcripts. Send in state colleges transcripts through your GaFutures account. AII other transcripts must be ordered through MyPaymentsPlus (S5). o Contact financial aid offices at the schools you have applied to for more information about scholarships and loans. o Research Federal/State aid and application processes.

o https : /lwww.safutu res, orslfed era l-a i d-scho I a rsh i ps/fafsa/ o https://www.safutu res.orelhope-state-a id-p rosrams/state-aid-a p olications/ o httns://www.gafutu res.orslh ope-state-aid-orosrams/h ope-zell-miller- scholarships/ O Collect current tax information with your parents for financial aid h application starting in October. o Apply for your Federal Student Aid lD - ps htt ://stu d e nta i d . e d . eov/sa/fa fsa /f i I t i ne-o ut/fsa i d o Complete FAFSA/GSFAPPS starting on October 1't. - https://studentaid.ed.eov/sa/fafsa/filline-out/fsaid and https://fafsa.eov/

Spring o Compare college acceptance letters, financial aid, and scholarships offers. o Make your college decision by May l-'t. lnform the college and contact all other colleges that you have applied to about your enrollment decision. o Order final transcripts. These will be available for pick up in the summer and students will mail to their colleges. O Submit fees for tuition, room and board. o Graduate! 812212017 College search print page

BigFuture's College Search helps you find colleges that fit you, with guidance every step tsigFuturE' of the way. Search by location, majors, cost and more.

bi gfutu re.col legeboard.org/co I Iege-search College Search h

Search Criteria

Location: Georgia, lnclude lnternational Schools: No

Colleges (97)

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Agnes Scott College Tifton, GA Decatur, GA Albany State University Albany Technical College Albany, GA Albany, GA

Andrew College Argosy U niversity: Atlanta Cuthbert, GA Atlanta, GA Armstrong State University Art !nstitute of Atlanta Savannah, GA Atlanta, GA Ashworth College Athens Technical Gollege Norcross, GA Athens, GA Atlanta Metropolitan State College Atlanta Technical College Atlanta, GA Atlanta, GA Augusta Technical College Augusta University Augusta, GA Augusta, GA Bainbridge State College Bauder College Bainbridge, GA Atlanta, GA Berry Gollege Beulah Heights University Mount Berry, GA Atlanta, GA Brenau University Brewton-Parker College Gainesville, GA Mount Vernon, GA Carver College Central Georgia Technical College Atlanta, GA Warner Robins, GA Chamberlain College of Nursing: Atlanta Chattahoochee Technica! College Atlanta, GA Marietta, GA Clark Atlanta University Clayton State University Atlanta, GA Morrow, GA C6a'stai Pines Tech nicat Cgll.ege Cotlege of Goastat Georgia Waycross, GA Brunswick, GA Columbus State University Columbus Technical College Columbus, GA Columbus, GA Covenant College Dalton State College Lookout Mountain, GA Dalton, GA Darton State College DeVry University: Decatur Albany, GA Decatur, GA East Georgia State College EmmanuelCollege Swainsboro, GA FRANKLIN SPRINGS, GA Emory Urtiversity Fort Valley State University https:{bi gfuture.collegeboard.org/print-college-search-results 113 8122/2017 College search print page Atlanta, GA Fort Valley, GA Georgia College and State University Georgia Gwlnnett College Milledgeville, GA Lawrenceville, GA Georgia Highlands College Georgia lnstitute of Technology Rome, GA Atlanta, GA Georgia Military Gollege Georgia Northwestern Technical College Milledgeville, GA Rome, GA Georgia.Perimeter College Georgia Piedmont Technical College Clarkston, GA Clarkston, GA Georgia Southern University Georgia Southwestern State University Statesboro, GA Americus, GA Georgia State University Gordon State College Atlanta, GA Barnesville, GA Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service Gwinnett College ' Decatur, GA Lilburn, GA Gwinnett Technical College Herzing University: Atlanta Lawrenceville, GA Atlanta, GA Kennesaw State University LaGrange College Kennesaw, GA LaGrange, GA - Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Afts: Atlanta Life University Tucker, GA Marietta, GA Luther Rice University Mercer University Lithonia, GA Macon, GA Middle Georgia State University Morehouse College Macon, GA Atlanta, GA North Georgia Technical College Oglethorpe University Clarkesville, GA Atlanta, GA Paine College Piedmont College Augusta, GA Demorest, GA Point University Reinhardt University West Point, GA Waleska, GA Savannah College of Art and Design Savannah State University Savannah, GA Savannah, GA Savannah Technical College Shorter University Savannah, GA Rome, GA South Georgia State Gollege South University: Savannah Douglas, GA Savannah, GA Southeastern Technical College Southern Crescent Technical College Vidalia, GA Griffin, GA Southern RegionalTechnical College Spelman College Thomasville, GA Atlanta, GA Thomas University Toccoa Falls College Thomasville, GA Toccoa Falls, GA Truett McGonnel[ University University of Georgia Cleveland, GA Athens, GA University of Nolth Georgia University of Phoenix: Atlanta Dahlonega, GA Sandy Springs, GA University of Phoenix: Augusta University of Phoenix: Columbus Augusta, GA Columbus, GA University of Phoenix: Savannah University of West Georgia https ://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/print-college-search-results 2t3 8f2tr2917 i College search print page Savannah, GA Carrollton, GA Valdosta State University Virginia College in Augusta Valdosta, GA Augusta, GA Virginia Gollege in Golumbus Virginia College in Macon Columbus, GA Macon, GA Virginla College in Savannah Wesleyan Cotlege lt Savannah, GA Macon, GA West Georgia TechnicalCollege Wiregrass Georgia Technical College Waco, GA Valdosta, GA Young Harris College Young Harris, GA

https:/h;igfuture.collegeboard,org/print-college-search-resu lts 3t3 COLLEGE SEARCH WORKSHEET My career interests are...

My academic strengths and interests are...

Majors to consider are...

Developing my college profile:Things to think about in my college search... . Schooland location: Public or private? Four-year 0rtwo-year? LiberalArts? Research? Technicalltrade? Pre-professionalprograms? Size? Distance from home? ln-state or out-of-state? Urban, smallcity, suburban, or rurai? Cs-ed or single gender? Student demographics? Affiliations? . Academics: PolicyforacceptingAP/lBcredit?Majorsandminorsthatinterestme?Reputationinmymajor?National ranking? Student-to-faculty ratio? Percentage of classes with fewerthan 20 students? Percentage of Iarge lectures (50+ students)? Percentage of students graduating on time? Percentage of classes taught by professors? 0pportunities for internships, special programs of study? Study abroad? Percentage of graduates in jobs or graduate schoolwithin six months? . Costandfinancialaid:Tuitionandfees?Roomandboard?Averagefinancialaidpackage?Percentageoffreshmen receiving aid? Participant in federalstudent aid program? Which aid applications are required/accepted? Deadlines?

. Scholastic strength of admitted students and application/admissions process:Average high school GPA? Average SAT/ACT scores? Average class rank (top 10%,lop250/0, etc,)? Entrance requirements (credits, etc,I? What's required for application (type of application,transcript, essay, recommendations)? Costfor application? Common Application or school application? 0nline application option? Early action/early decision policy and deadlines? Deadlines for regular a dmission? Ac ce ptanc e rate? N otification d ate?

. Housing and other issues: Housing options? Guaranteed freshman housing? Safety and security? Athletics (NCAA to intramurals) and other extracurriculars? Services for students with disabilities? Greek system?

After considering the questions above and developing a profile of what's important to you in a college, start assembling a list ofschools to consider. Talk to your counselor, your advisor, and your parents to decide which schools offer you a good shot at admissions, are a good fit academically, and are possible with your family finances/financial aid options. Narrow your iist to a handfi.rl of schools you could definitely get into, schools that you'd probably get into, and schools you would like to get into. Decide how many schools from each category you'll apply to and develop a plan, noting deadlines, required materials, and application costs, Good luck!

Colleges/universities where I could definitely get in (Safety Schools). l'm at the high end academically for admitted students at...

Colteges/universities where I probably would be admitted (Reach Schools). l'm in the middle academically so I feel pretty good about my chances at...

Colleges/universities where lwould like to be admitted (Dream Schools). These schools would be an academic stretch for me, but l'd like to try to go to... TRANSCRIPTS FOR COLLEGE

There are 2 ways to send your transcripts to your college:

1. If you are going to an "ln-State" school, you can send your tnanscripts through your Georgia Futures account at no cost. a. Log on to ww.gafutures.org b. Click on the "College Planning" tab at the top of the page c. Select "High School Transcripts" d. Complete the form and click "Send"

2. Order your transcript through Mypaymentsplus.com and pick up your transcripts in the AHS front office. There is a 48 hr. turnaround on transcripts ordered. AHS front office hours are 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday - Friday,

""* Archer High School does ttl0T mail transcripts to any college or university. lt is the responsibility of the student to order, pick up and mail their transcripts to their colleges or universities.

HOPE GPA Students can view their HOPE GPA through their Georgia futures account, a. Log on to www.gafutures.org b. Click on the "My GAFutures" tab at the top of the page c. On the left side, click on "My HOPE GPA" d. Select "Archer High School" e. After a few moments, your report will display College: S cou"geBoard HOW TO GET THERE FROM HERE We know you're ready for college - your academic track record has proven that. Now it's time to apply. Here are some tips on how to get started.

Apply to four or more colleges.

At least 1 SAFETY A college you're confident you can get into.

Atteasr2 GOOD FITS When looking at colleges, Colleges you have a pretty good chance of getting into. consider the following: Erfirfiruliil trm What are the average SATo scores and Do you want a smaller campus with At least 1 GPA of students admitted to the school? smaller class sizes, or a larger school REACH Does it have any prerequisites? Apply to with a wider variety of programs, such as A college that you have colleges that are a good academic fit- a state university? a chance of getting into, whether they are a safe bet or a little out of reach. ffi ":::":l*l"n Does the college's library meet your IA?EfrII7fif.TC![m needs? Does the campus use the latest Applying to two colleges Do most students graduate in four technology? What about lab facilities? instead of one makes it years? lf not, why not? ffi IfIImEfiTII What are the housing options? Are 40a/o Do you prefer a big city, suburb, or small there social activities, cultural events, MORE LIKELY town? clubs, or athletics that interest you? that you'll enroll in a What support services are available four-year college. lf you apply to tilE;Er#t on campus to help with social, health, more than two, then your chances of Does the college offer a variety of academic, and financial challenges? enrolling will be even better. majors that interest you?

Set up campus visits. These visits are always free, but if you can't travel, take a virtual tour or visit a local college. Even if you don't tour your first-choice college, you will get an idea of what campus life is really like. Want to know if you're on track in the college application College Application process? This timeline shows you what you should be doing, Tirneline and when,

tr Sign up for updates at bigfuture.org. tr Register for the SATo; lf you haven't taken it yet, or would like to take it again, it's not too late! Sign up now and be sure to send Talk to your school counselor or adviser about the college tr score reports to colleges. search and application process. n Opt in to Student Search Service@: More than '1,100 colleges College requirements: Make a list of the application, testing, tr use this service and are looking for students like you. and financial aid requirements for each college, n Complete the FAFSA, which opens October 1l lt is necessary Letters of recommendation: Decide who to ask and reach out n if you are applying for federal and state grants and loans. Funds to them early so they have time to write good letters. lf you have are limited, so make sure to file by the f inancial aid priority filing a r6sum6 or list of accomplishments, be sure to send it to them. dates. D Application essaysr Look over essays you've already written for tr Complete the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE@, which also inspiration. Share your ideas with parents, teachers, or othertrusted opens October 1: Certain colleges use it to see if you qualify adults so they can help you craft the strongest essays possible. for additional grants and scholarships. (There is a fee for application.)

D Work on your applications: Some have deadlines as early as tr Consider college application services: Application systems November. like the Coalition Application, Common Application, and Universal College Application let you complete one application D Send your SAT and AP@ scores: This ensures that colleges online and submit it to several colleges. have the most complete set of your information to review for admission as wellas scholarship awards, course placement, or tr Send transcripts: Ask for your transcripts to be sent to your selection to a specific program or major, chosen colleges.

E Compare award letters: After examining the financial aid tr Search for scholarships: Scholarships provide money for packages you are offered, some schools may be more affordable college that you don't need to repay. And they're notjust for than you thought, academic superstars.

fl Get information: Dig a little deeper to help you make the best E Review acceptance lettersl Go over all offers of admission, choice for you. Ask questions. Create a list of any questions you consider the pros and cons of each school, and pick the college still have about the colleges you're considering. that fits you best.

Visit bigfuture.collegebsard.org for more information.

tr@MyBigFuture Etr@collegeboard @ 201 6 The College Board. Ii/MyBigFuture 00443-008 150850777 College Application O con"g"Board Checklist

Having a list of important tasks to complete for each college application will make the application process go smoothly and help you meet deadlines.

To fill in all the blanks on the application form itsell you may have to dig up documents or get answers from your parents or guardians. Most students use online applications, but paper applications are usually available too. There are also services that let you complete one application online and submit it to several colleges like the Coalition Application, Common Application, and Universal College Application.

College 1 College 2 College 3 College 4 Get information/application forms n nt]D Make a note about regular application deadline n uDn Make a note about early application deadline n nnfl

The record of the classes you've taken and your grades are important parts of your application. Your high school should send your transcript. along with a school profile, directly to the colleges to which you are applying. Ask your school counselor or principal how to arrange for this. And be sure to check the transcript for errors before it's sent.

College 1 College 2 College 3 College 4 Request high school transcript sent tr unn Request midyear grade reports sent tr ntrtr .,v(J:55. Most colleges require or recommend that you send scores from tests such as the SAT@. Colleges accept scores only from the testing organizations themselves. Visit bigfuture,collegeboard.org for more information and to learn more about the role of testing in college admission. lr

College 1 College2 College 3 College 4 Send SATscores tr tr n tr Send SAT Subject Test scores il tr tr n Send AP'scores tr n tr n

/{t;fe.s.'

Many colleges require letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who know you well. Ask your references well in advance of the deadlines to write you a recommendation. You may want to give them a short written summary of your achievements to help them write about you.

College 7 College 2 College 3 College 4 Request recommendation letters utr nn Send thank-you notes trn trn

Note.s:

Your essays are a chance for you to give admission officers a better idea of your character and strengths. Remember to proofread your essays carefully before you send them in.

College 1 College 2 College 3 Coltege 4 Draft initial essay(s) tr n tr n Proofread essay(s) for spelling and grammar n tr n n Havetwo people read essay(s) n n n n Revise your essay(s) n tr n tr Proofread your revision u n tr n

/Vo,es.' \

Applying to college is a big job, but you can make it easier by breaking it down into a series of small steps'

College 1 College 2 College 3 College 4 Gomplete college applications uu tr tr Use exactsame name on all of yourforms nn ! tr Carefully review entire application trtr n n Have a family member orteacher reviewapplication nn u u lvofe.5r

It's a good idea to ask for an interview even if it's not required. lt shows you're serious and gives you a chance to connect with someone in the admission office. Even if a college is far away, you may be able to interview with a local alumnus. Read What to Do Before and After Your College lnterview to prepare.

College 1 College 2 College 3 College 4 lnterview at college n n tr n Look into an alumnus interview tr tr n tr Send thank-you note(s) to interviewer(s) n tr n tr funfi:q'

Once you've completed your application, follow these tips to make sure all the parts get where they're going.

College 1 College 2 College 3 Callege 4 Make copies of all application materials nDn tr Apply online trnn n lnclude application fee ntrtr n Sign application n n fI n Confirm receipt of application materials n tr n tr Send supplemental material, if needed ntr tr n Mail your institutional aid form, if needed fItr n fI Mail state aid form, if needed ft n n fI lvoias: College is usually more affordable than many families think, thanks to financial aid, Below are key steps to navigating the financial aid process: i''

College 1 College 2 College 3 College 4 Make a note of priority financial aid deadline n tr n tr Make a note of regularfinancialaid deadline n tr n tr SubmitFAFSA(opensoct.l) tr n tr n SubmitCSS/FinancialAid PROFILE', if needed (OpensOct,l) n n n n Submit college aid form, if needed t] t] tr n ldnfp.q'

You've received several college admission offers. Now comes the hard part Which one do you choose? Find out how to make the best decision for you.

College 1 College 2 College 3 College4 Receive admission letter u tr D n Receive financial aid award letter n n tr tr Get more information about each college D n n n Ask questions about student resources and services tr n tr n Compare college features and things you want n n n tr Gompare financial aid awards side by side tr D D n Make a decision n tr n n Respond to college you are attending n D n u Respond to colleges whose offers you're declining D tr tr n Send deposit tr tr n u Send final high school transcript n il tr tr Nofos;

Visit bi gfuture.collegeboa rd.org for m ore i nformatio n.

@ 201 6 The College Board. Il/MyBigFuture tr@MyBigFuture Etr@collegeboard 00443-006 1608s0775 t

STEPl: STARTYOUR PATH TO COLLEGEAND CAREERSUCCESS! h Create your college and career pathway today and improve your odds of graduating college in 4 years. Only 40 percent of college freshmen graduate in 4 years.* While 74 percent of students with declared majors in college graduate on time.* This exercise will help you create your pathway. Follow the directions below and fill out your initial responses. Then, go online to MvMaiors'com to complete the interactive process.

l. Write down three majors you find interesting and why: 5. Which two recommended maiors make the least sense you? Why? a. to a.

h

b.

6. Are there any majors from question one on this page that were not recommended? Why do you think that MyMaiors did not recommend that/those maior(s)? 2. Go to MvMaiors.com and complete the quiz, answering the questions as accurately as you can.

3. At the end of the quiz, you will receive your five recommended majors. ln the space below, write the five majors in the order they are presented:

a.

b.

c.

d.

7. Pick one or two majors you are considering. And research your maior(s) on MvMaiors,com. 4. Which two recommended maiors make the most sense Discover how your choice of maior(s) can connect to you? Why? you to the right school and, later on, the right career. a.

#WhatsYourMajor Tweet Your Results and MyMajors will Retweet You

b. W@mymajors

'sou,ce: "Enrollment in Postvcondary lnstitulions, Fall ?o08; Grdduatim Rat*,2002 and 2005 Cohotts dnd FitLlncial Stastics, Fiscal Yeat 2008." lnstitute of f:ducation Sdences, Natbnal C'enter for Educdtlb, StJsl'i.s NCES 20!2-152 "SoLEe: lhstitutionai Rev-arch and Palicy Studet hly 2002

coT YorJR BEST-FIT MAIORS? NOW FIND A COILEGE (SIEP 2) , -This Activity Worksheet is Part I in a 3-part process. P/ease complete thrs step first before moving on to Step 2 To complete fhr's sfep, please go to MvMaiors.com and take the quiz to find your maior. ll,rYMnIOBS llilJtGilZII{E I fEf.f. ZOfA Your Valuable Rrisource to Find a Major, Fincl a college ancl Fintl a Career FINDA COIIEGE

STEP 2: *YOU'VE FOUND YOUR MAJORS ... NOW FIND YOUR COLLEGE! The MyMajors College Search connects you to more than 7,200 Colleges, Universities and Career Schools. Refine your search using the space below and by logging-in to your MvMaiors.com Profile page and go to "My Schools" tab. Search for your Major, State, and lnstitution Type. Use the "Request Info" button to on the school name to research more.

l. What type of institution best fits your 5. Based on your recommended majors, research three unique interests: colleges or university ptofile pages and their websites. three schools and note one 4-Year Below, write down the their campus and approach Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities aspect that seems to make your . Earn a Bachelor's Degree or Higher to maior unique. . Study a wide range of courses a. 2-Year Community Colleges . Earn an Associate's Degree . Affordable, prepares you for a career b. or 4-year institution 2-Year Career Colleges or Vo-Tech . Career-focused, Gen-Ed courses not required . Earn a Certificate of Completion or Associate's Degree

Public on either the school's Private, non-profit 5. Using the "Request lnfo" button profile page on your of schools, sign-up Private, for-profit or unique list for more information online. You can also request more Reply Card in the middle 2. What size of institution best fits your unique needs: information by filling out the Small (Less than 5,000 students) of this book. Medium (5,000 - 20,000 students) Large (More than 20,000 students) 7. Ready to apply yet? Many schools have online applications making it easy and fast to apply. ln the space below, write down three 3. Are you interested in Distance Learning/Online schools that you are interested in applying to along programs at a college or university? with the deadline for admissions. Yes No a.

h

RESEARCHED SOLIE SCHOOTS? HOW FIND A C'AREER (STEP 3) r, 'This Activity Worksheet is Part 2 in a 3-part process. lf you have nat completed Sfep I please go to MyMaiors.com and take the MyMajors quiz to find your maior and find a college. i\4yr4ajcrs.corr IJIYMAJORS IIIIIIGAUINE I f nl eOfa FINDA CAREER

MAJOR I: MAJOR 2:

Which related career appeals to you: Which related career appeals to you:

Click on Career you are interested in: Click on Career you are interested in: What are 3 things that an individual in this Career does? What are 3 things that an individual in this Career does?

Click on the "Skills" Tab: Click on the "Skills" Tab: What 3 types of skills are required for this career? What 3 types of skills are required for this career?

Click on the "Salary" Tab: Click on the "Salary" Tab: What is the Median Annual Wage and Median Hourly What is the Median Annual Wage and Median Hourly Wage for this career? Wage for this career?

Click on the "Schools" Tab: Click on the "Schools" Tab: Does this Career match a College you are interested in? Does this Career match a College you are interested in?

YES NO YES NO

lf Yes, have you clicked the "Request lnfo" button lf Yes, have you clicked the "Request lnfo" button for more information? for more information?

lf No, are there other Colleges that you would lf No, are there other Colleges that you would like to be Matched to? like to be Matched to?

3 AIYMBIORSMIICAZME I FALL2O14 Yciur Valuable Rosourco to Find a f,4ajor, FinC a Colleqe and Find a Caroer FINDA SCHOLARSHIP

STEP 4: *MAKE YOUR EDUCATION PAY FOR ITSELFI I' About 86 percent of students on MvMaiors,com are looking for some kind of financial support while pursuing post-secondary options. Go online to MvMaiors.com and click on the "Scholarships and Grants" link. Then, begin the process for researching two potential scholarships and, using the area below, write down the kind of information you will need when applying for these two scholarships.

SCHOLARSHIP 1: SCHOLARSHIP 2:

Scholarship Contact lnformation: Scholarship Contact lnformation:

Schotarship Eligibility Requirements: Scholarship Eligibility Requirements:

Amount of Scholarship (Award): Amount of Scholarship (Award):

Checklist of items required for scholarship/award: Checklist of items required for scholarship/award:

Scholarship Due Date: Scholarship Due Date:

4 MyMATOR,SITEAG.AZTT{E I r}rLL2O14 Your Valuai:le Resource to Find a Major, Fincl a College and FlnC a Career COLLEGE FUNDING Many funding options are available to help families and students in financing further education after high school graduation. While postsecondary costs continue to rise, money ls available, However, you have to apply. You and your family should review these pages for an overview of available college funding options. You can find additional infor- mation regarding these and other programs on the websites listed on page 9, in publications from state and federal financial aid agencies, and through your advisor or counselor at your local school.

TYPES OF FINANCIAL AID SOURCES OF FINANCIAL AID Loans: A loan is money you (or your parents) bor- that State FinancialAid row and must repay with interest to the lender. You may Graduates of Georgia high schook may be eligible state apply and qualify for federal direct loans, federally guar- for aid through the HOPE Program, which ofers both scholar- anteed loans from private lenders, institutional (college- ships and grants. Also see 10-11 details. backed) loans, or private loans. It's important to know the Pages for differences between loan programs, terms for repayment, HOPE Program how interest and fees are calculated, and your rights and The Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally (HOPE) responsibilities as a borrower. Program is funded by the Georgia Lottery and provides

Grants: A grant is money that is awarded as financial postsecondary financing for qualifying students through aid that does not have to be repaid (unless, for instance, a both the HOPE Scholarship and the HOPE Grant, To be student withdraws from school before the end of the term eligible for HOPE funding (scholarship or grant), students and owes a refund). must submit a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or a HOPE Scholarship and Grant Scholarships: A scholarship is money that is awarded to Application. (Note: The HOPE application is accepted a student who meets the criteria for the award. Scholar- onJy for HOPE funding and only in Georgia. Ifyou expect ships may be a one-time award or renewable if a student to need federal financial aid, will apply for a loan of any meets set criteria. Many scholarships are based on some kind, or are applying to schools outside of Georgia, you conbination of leadership, financial need, and/or aca- should submit the FAFSA instead.) Both applications demic achievement, For entering college freshmen, high are available online and can be accessed through

school averages and scores from the SAT and/or The ACT www, GAcollegeL 1 1. org. Students' transcripts must include are considered, Generally, scholarship money is not repaid, their social security number to be eligible for HOPE unless tlr.e student does not fulfill all requirements. Schol- funding. Application confirms eligibilityfor HOPE and arships may be oft-ered by a postsecondary institution, is required to receive funding. Following you'llfind more agencies, clubs and organizations, businesses, and indi- about the HOPE Scholarship and the HOPE Grant: viduals. Gwinnett high school students receive announce- HOPE Scholarship: The HOPE Scholarship is a four-year ments regularly regarding the availability of scholarships program (capped at 127 attempted semester hours) and the criteria for selecting scholarship recipients. for qualifying Georgia residents (HOPE grade point Work-Study: Postsecondary work-study programs average of3,0 or higher in required and elective core offer jobs to eligible students who show financial need classes). As of2014, the scholarship pays a portion of and who must earn a part of their educational expenses. tuition in degree-granting programs at eligible in-state Work-study is offered as a portion of a student's finan- public colleges and universities. Students must meet cial aid package. Federal work-study jobs may be on- or certain criteria to qualify for the scholarship and to off-campus. Students are paid at least federal minimum maintain eligibility. The amount of the award is adjusted wage for federal work-study jobs. Some colleges may offer annually, based on lottery revenue. Eligible students or require work-study programs. Pay and available hours enrolled in a Georgia private college or university may may vary for school-based programs. qualifr for a private HOPE award covering a portion of tuition, plus a Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant.

Zell Miller Scholarshipr Students who graduate from high school with a GPA of 3.7 or higher and have received a score of at least 1200 on combined Critical

6 | college funding Reading Score and Math Score on the SAI, or a score munity service. A total FWS award is dependent on when of at least 26 on The ACT; or are the valedictorian and you apply, your level of need, and your school's funding salutatorian of their graduating class, receive full tuition level. Generally, students are paid by the.hour, at least at Georgia's public institutions and the full private HOPE once a month, and directly to the student. The amount award at private Georgia colleges and universities. you earn cannot exceed your total FWS award. ImportantNote: Tlrc Class of 2015 must earn atleast two Federa! Loans: Student (and parent) loans are borrowed credits in rigorous high school coursework to qualifu the for money and must be repaid. The Perkins Loan is a feder- HOPE Scholarship, with three credits 2016 graduates and for ally guaranteed loan through your postsecondary insti- four credits for those g'aduating in 2017, Students earning tution. The U.S, Department of Education is the lender creditfor courses in GCPS' standard sequencefor math and for the William D. Ford Direct Loan Program, which science- as well asforeign language or college-level Ad- includes Direct Loans and PLUS loans. Types of loans vanced Placement and International Baccalaureate class,;l.- include Federal Perkins Loans, Direct Loans (subsidized would meet the HOPE rigor requirements. and unsubsidized), and Direct PLUS Loans for Parents. HOPE Grant The HOPE Grant is a program for Georgia (Note: Interest on a Direct Subsidized Loan is paid by the residents pursuing an eligible diploma or certificate government while a student is in college. Interest accrues program through selected technical colleges in Georgia. and is paid by the borrower with a Direct Unsubsidized As of 2014, the HOPE Grant pays a portion of tuition Loan.) Students who complete the FAFSA (see Financial for qualified students. Students enrolled in designated Aid Terms You Need to Know on page 8) will be consid- programs of study who are eligible for, and receiving, ered for both the Perkins and Direct loan programs. To HOPE Grant firnding also maybe eligrble for fundingfrom accept the loan, the student must sign a legally binding the Strategic Industries Workforce Development Grant. promissory note. Parents of dependent students can No specific high school GPA is required, but students borrow from the PLUS Loan program, Eligibility, award must meet entrance requirements of the postsecondary amounts, interest rates, and the length of repayment vary institution to which they apply, and eam a 2,0 cumulative for these loans, Students are urged to learn more about GPA at certain HOPE checkpoints, once enrolled. Note: their options and their rights and responsibilities as bor- High school students may use the Dual HOPE Grant to rowers before taking out any loan. earn college credit while still in high school. Credit hours Find out more about these programs from Federal Stu- paid by a Dual HOPE Grant do not count toward the dent Aid, an ofhce of the U.S. Department of Education. Iimit of hours paid for by the HOPE Grant program. A number of useful publications are available from them, along with FAFSA4caster, an online tool to estimate your Federal FinancialAid eligibiliry for federal student aid. Call l-800-433-3243 or Programs administered by the federal government com- go to www.FederalStudentAid. ed.gov, prise the nation's largest source of student aid, including three types of federal financial aid: School-Based Financial Aid Federal Grants: These federal student aid grants Some colleges and universities offer additional school- are awarded to students with financial need: Federal funded financial aid to qualifying students, including Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational scholarships, grants, fellowships, and work-study. While Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). A student must qualify for many institutions automatically consider a student for a Pell Grant in order to receive the FSEOG. The amount school-based aid- using FAFSA and/or CSS Financial of offered grants is based on financial need, enrollment Aid PROFILE to determine eligibility- some schools status, and full or partial academic year. The federal require additional applications, especially for school- TEACH Grant requires a teachir:g service cornlnitmeut. funded scholarships with specific criteria and qualifica- Surviving children of a U.S. Servicemember who died tions. Be aware of the requirements and deadlines of the as a result of service in Iraq or Afghanistan also may be schools in which you are interested. eligible for a grant. Other Funding Options FederalWork-Study (FWS) Program: FWS provides In addition to financial aid available from state and fed- jobs for students with financial need. ln on-campus jobs, eral sources arrd school-based aid, there are some addi- students work for the school. Off-campus jobs most often tional options, including scholarships, private loans, and are for non-profits or a public agency, emphasizing com-

college funding | 7 programs that forgive or repay loans based on service or ing scholarships is to look for the opportunities that best work in specified areas. Check out the options in this sec- meet your strengths and abilities, complete applications tion and talk to your counselor or advisor. to specifications, and meet deadlines, Scholarships from Other Sources: Hundreds of schol- Credit-Based Loans from Private Lenders: Borrowers 1- arships are available from clubs, community organiza- must be considered credit-worthy in order to be eligible tions, and groups, founda- businesses corporations, civic for a credit-based loan program. These loans are not guar- tions, and individuals. However, beware of scholarship anteed by the federal government. As with any loan, make scholarships scams and services that offer to search for sure you understand terms and conditions of the loan. for a fee or guarantee that you l1 receive a scholarship. Service-Gancelable Loans: Service-cancelable loans can This information is available free of charge from many be repaid through service in specific fields identified as reputable sources. Your school maintains a list of scholar- critical needs by the agency offering the loan. If a student ships that you may want to pursue. In addition, a number accepts a service-cancelable loan and does not go into or of online services compile scholarship opportunities stay in the field, or otherwise meet the commitments of that you can tap into at no cost. Here are a few potential the loan, he or she is responsible for repaying the loan scholarship resources to keep in mind. .. Do you work? and interest. Learn more about options in Georgia. Your employer may have a scholarship program for student enrployees, Does your Parent or sotneone in your Federal Loan Forgiveness/Deferment/Repayment family belong to an organization or workfor a company Options: The federal government will forgive (cancel) that ofers scholarships for family members? Are you in- all or part of a federal educational loan under certain volved with a club or organization, in or out of school, that circumstances, Loan-forgiveness programs are available ofers scholarships? Do youhaye a talent or ability that for certain types of volunteerrvork (AmeriCorps, VISTA, you could turn into scholarship money? The key to earn- Peace Corps), military service, teaching or practicing

FINANCIAL AIDTERMSYOU NEEDTO KNOW FAFSA: Free Application for Fedelal Student Aid, Financial Need: Cost of attendance minus expected required for any student seeking federal financial aid, family contribution. The school uses federal and other including federal grants, federally backed student and aid to help meet your fi.nancial need. A school may parent loans, and federal work-study. Applying for not fully meet your financial need. federal student aid is free, as is help completing the Award Letter: A letter from a school detailing a FAFSA, if needed. To complete the FAFSA, you will student's financial aid package, noting the type and need information from your family's federal tax forms amount of aid the school is willing to offer if the stu- for the current and previous years. dent accepts admission and registers for classes. Student Aid Report (SAR): A summary of the FinancialAid Package: The total amount of financial information you provided on the FAFSA. Schools that aid (federal and nonfederal) that a student is offered receive your SAR will use this information to deter- by the school. A financial aid package may fall short of mine your eligibility for financial aid. what a student needs to meet the full cost of atten- Expected Family Contribution (EFC): An amount dance. Federal student aid is affected by other sources that is used to determine your eligibility for aid, based ofaid (scholarships, state aid, etc.). on information provided on the FAFSA. Savings, Promissory Note: A legally binding document that a loans, prepaid college accounts, and outside scholar- student must sign for a federal student loan. The note ships are among the sources that families may use to lists terms and conditions of the loan, interest rate, pay the balance between the cost of attendance and how interest is calculated, and deferment and cancel- offered financial aid, lation provisions. of Attendance (COA): The amount Cost total it will CSS Profile: An additional financial aid application cost to attend a school, usually expressed as a yearly required by some private colleges and universities. figure, including tuition and fees; room and board (or a The CSS Profile requires a fee and is administered by housing and food allowance for off-campus students); College Board. allowances for books, supplies, loan fees, and transpor- tation; and miscellaneous and personal expenses.

8 | college funding medicine in certain types of cornmunities or with certain paid. Check with your familys tax advisor or the Internal specialities, some law enforcement lvork, or nreeting Revenue Service for details. other criteria specified by the forgiveness program. The Tax Credits: You or your parents also may qualifr for an Federal Student Loan Repayment Program allows federal available tax credit. Check with your family's tax advippr agencies to repay federal loans on behalf of employees to or the Internal Revenue Service to learn more. help in recruitment and retention efforts. Deferment or Loan Forgiveness and Repayment Programs: Both postponement of federal loan repayment may be avail- state and federal loans may qualify for special programs able for qualified borrowers who work in certain fields, that cancel or repay all or part of a loan, based on the including teaching. The Public Service Loan Forgiveness borrower's public service work. See the "Other Funding Program also may be an option. Learn more about all of Options" section to learn more. these options on the Federal Student Aid website.

ONLINE RESOURCES... PAYING FOR COLLEGE KEEPING DOWNTHE COSTS OF COLLEGE Georgia Student Finance Commission A postsecondary education is certainly worth the invest- www.gsfc.org ment, but you and your family may want to lookfor some ways to reduce the cost of your education after hig! school. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Here are afew tips front Federal Student Aid: www.fafsa.ed.gov Postsecondary Credit in High School: Students have Federal Student Aid (incl u ding FAFSA4caster) several options for earning college credit, waiving prereq- w w w. F e d er alStu d e nt Ai d. e d. go v uisite college courses, or earning placement at a higher CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE@ level of study, Students may earn credit with Advanced http s : / /p r ofile o nlin e, c olle geb o ar d. c o m/ inde x. j sp (AP) (IB) Placernent or International Baccalaureate Guide to Student FinancialAid exams. High school students participating in dual enroll- www.finaid.org ment programs- Accel, Dual HOPE Grant, and Move Georgia Higher Education Savings Plan (529 Plan) On When Ready- can earn both college and high school w w w. ath 2 c olle ge 5 2 9. co m credit for college courses they take. Articulation agree- P ments between GCPS and local technical colleges also National Assn. of Student Financial Aid Administration may allow students to earn credit or advanced placement. (Check out the Parents and Students section.) Remember, credit you earn before you get to college may www.nas_faa.org allow you to graduate early (which will save you money) Scholarship Search or expand your course of study to a double major or ww w. s cholar ship -p age. com www. collegeansw er. com study abroad while still graduating in four years. www.iefa.org/ www.scholarshipamerica.org www.gocollege.com Lower-Cost Schools: Consider attending a community www.fastweb.com college (two-year), then transferring to a four-year college Protect yourself from financial aid scams! for your junior and senior years. Make sure that your L if you are asked to pay money to get money, it community school classes will transfer to the four-year might be a scam. degree program that interests you. 2. Never give out a credit card or bank account Work or Vo lu nteer Opportu n ities: \{orking part-time number to submit a scholarship application or to while attending classes can help you pay part of your participate in a service. postsecondary costs. However, be aware that financial aid often is tied to your status as a fuIl- or part-time student 4. Never invest more than a postage stamp to get in- (based on registered hours) and how many semesters you formation about scholarships. are enrolled each academic year. If you are not enrolled 5. Nobody can guarantee that you'll win a scholar- in classes for one or more semesters in a row you may ship. Programs that make promises may not be be required to stalt repaying your student loans. Certain legitimate. volunteer work may qualify you for loan forgiveness. 6. Legitimate scholarship foundations do not charge Tax Breaks: Borrowers may qualify for a tax deduction application fees. for interest paid on student loans and for tuition and fees Spend the time, not the money!

college funding | 9 Financial Aid O cottegeBoard Checklist

College is usually more affordable than many families think, thanks to financial aid. The checklists below offer a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the flnancial aid process and get the most money possible for college.

tr Find out how financial aid can help you afford college. tr Talk to your family about ways to pay for college, Discuss You might be surprised by how affordable a college the options and share ideas about how your family might education can be. Check out 7 Things You Need to Know pay for it. About Financiatr Aid. D Save money for college, Bank part of your birthday money, tr Learn the basics of college costs. Besides tuition, what your allowance, or your earnings from chores or an after- expenses do college students have to cover? Find out by schooljob for future college expenses. Even a small amount reading Quick Guider College Costs, can be a big help when you're buying textbooks and school supplies later on. tr Get an idea of what college might really cost you. Check out I Things You Need to Know About Net Price to learn tr Challenge yourself inside the classroom, Good grades why you may not have to pay the full published price of a not only expand your college opportunities but also can college. Then pick a college you're interested in and go to help you pay for college. Some grants and scholarships - College Search to find its profile. Click the Calculate Your money you don't have to pay back - are awarded based on Net Price button to see that college's estimated net price academic performance. for you the cost of attending a college minus grants and - Get involved in activities you like. Your activities outside scholarships you might receive, Save the data you enter, ! the classroom like playing sports, volunteering, and when possible, so you can recompute the net price as - participating in clubs can lead to scholarships that will college gets closer. - help you afford college,

I'/slssi

B/My3igFuture tr@My$igFuture Ktr@collegeboard tr Take an inventory of your interests and passions. and United Negro College Fund use the PSAT/NMSQT and PSATM 10 students for Scholarships are not only based on academic achievement. to identify scholarships. rr Many scholarships award money for college based on a tr Learn the difference between sticker price and net price. student's activities, talents, background, and intended A college's sticker price is its full published cost, while the major. net price is the cost of attending a college minus grants and tr Research the various types of financial aid. Find out the scholarships you receive. Knowing the difference will help difference between a grant and a loan, the way work-study you understand why most students pay less than full price can help with college costs, and more. Read Financia! Aid for college. Read Focus an Net Price, Not $ticke r Price to Can Help You Afford College. learn more.

u Continue talking with your family about paying for tr Get perspective and tips from people who know Visit the college. Start planning your financial strategy. Most families Video Gallery to watch short videos of college students use a combination of savings, current income, and loans to and education professionals talking about paying for pay their share of tuition and other costs. college.

tr Take the PSAT/NMSQT'. Juniors who take the tr Think about getting college credit while you're still PSAT/NMSQT, which is given in October, are automatically in high school. Consider taking Advanced Placement entered into the National Merit Scholarship Program. Program'(AP') classes and exams, which can count for Organizations such as the American lndian Graduate college credit, placement, or both, and may help you save Center, Asian & Pacific lslander American Scholarship Fund, money. Read Getting College Credit Before College to Hispanic Scholarship Fund, Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, learn more about AP and other college-level courses.

N0ie.s;

tr Keep looking up colleges'estimated net prices - net year, but you can create your account and get a FSA lD to price calculators get updated every year. Pick a college get a head start. you're interested in and go to College Search to find its Go to a financial aid event. Many schools host financial aid profile. Click Calculate Your Net Price to see that college's ! nights so students and their families can get information estimated net price for you the cost of attending a college - and ask questions. minus the grants and scholarships you might receive. tr Set aside money from a summer job. Even a little extra tr Start researching scholarship opportunities. money will help you pay for books and living expenses while Scholarships are free money; that is, unlike student loans, in college or enable you to buy some of the things you need they don't have to be paid back, Use the College Board's to make a smooth transition to college. Scholarship Search tool to find scholarships for which you might qualify. tr Gather the documents you'll need to fill out your financial aid applications. You and your parents will need n Get to know the FAFSA. The Free Application for Federal to gather tax returns, income statements, and lists of Student Aid is the key to having access to federal financial assets to prepare to fill out the FAFSA, the PROFILE, and aid. You can find out more about the form at fafsa.ed.gov. other applications, Read How to Complete the FAFSA. You can't fill out the FAFSA until after Oct. 1 of your senior

Nofe.$: tr Research local scholarship opportunities. Talk to your tr Find out about different kinds of student loans. Not school counselor, teachers, or other adults in your community all student loans are equal. Loans come from different about scholarships offered by local organizations. Go to your sources, and some kinds are more expensive than othqrs. local library and ask for help. Ask your parents to see if their Read Types of College Loans to learn more, employers grant scholarships. And don't forget to check the tr Find out if you need to file a CSS/F|nancial Aid PROFILE'. College Board's Scholarship Search. A college may require students to complete this application tl Look up deadlines. Don't miss the priority deadlines for - or the college's own forms - to apply for financial aid your colleges'financial aid applications - meeting these will awarded by the institution. help you get as much money as possible. You can compare tr Complete the CSS/F|nancial Aid PROFILE, if required. lf deadlines for different colleges by using the College Search you need to submit the PROFILE to a college or scholarship tool. And be sure to find out the application deadlines of any program, be sure to find out the priority deadline and private scholarships or loans for which you plan to apply. submit it by that date. Read How to Complete the CSSI tr Get an estimate of what the cotleges on your final list will FinancialAid PR0FItE. actually cost. Get a better idea of what you'll pay to attend tr Complete your FAFSA, You can submit the FAFSA after a college by looking at its estimated net price the cost - Oct. 'l sooner is better to qualify for as much financial aid of attending a college minus grants and scholarships you - as possible. Filling out the form online at fafsa,gov is the receive. You can get this figure by going to the net price fastest way to do it. calculator on the college's website or, for some colleges, by using the College Board's Net Price Calculator.

&o{e.s;

tr Apply for any private scholarships you've found. tr Select a financial aid package by the deadline. Once Make sure you understand and follow the application you've compared the offers, you and your family should requirements and apply by the deadline. discuss which package best meets your needs. Financial aid is limited, so if you don't accept your award on time, it tr Compare your financial aid awards. The colleges you may go to another student. You can, however, ask for an applyto will send financial aid award letters to tell you how extension if you are waiting to hear from other schools. much and which kinds of aid they're offering you. Use the Each college will decide if it's able to give you an extension. Compare Your Aid Awards calculator to make side-by-side comparisons of each college's aid package. tr Complete financial aid paperwork. lf loans are part of your financial aid package, you'll have to complete and submit D Contact a college's financial aid office, if necessary. paperwork to get the money. Financial aid officers are there to help you if you have questions. lf your financial aid award is not enough, don't be tr Get ready to pay the first college tuition bill. This usually afraid to ask about other options. covers the first semester and is due before you enroll.

Visit bigfuture,collsgsboard,org for more information.

PSAT/NMSQT Is a resistered trademark of the collese Board and National Merit Scholarshlp corporation. :arra#Jl" ffi[Bffird. College Planning and Scholarship Resources www.gafutu res.org ir http ://www. gcic. p each n et. ed u / https://www. khanacademv,ore/collese-careers-more/collese-admissions/applving-to-colleee www.qocollege.con't

www. b i gfutu re, co I I egeboa rd. o rg www.campustours.com www.ecpmpuStours.com www.aie.org www.cappe{.com www.mvmaiors.com www.petersons.com www.col legecovered.com/assist Scholarships/Financia! Aid Resources www.fafsa.gov www.gsfc.org www. gafutu res.ors/scholarsh i p-sea rch www.scholarships.com www. ch eegs. com/schola rsh i os www.fastweb.com www.schola rship h u nter.com www.schola rsh ipa m erica.com www.iefa.orgl (international scholarships)

gu http ://www. a ra nteed-sch.o I a rsh i ps. co m / http ://a rcher.a rcherh iehschoo I. net/paee/show/2030674-scholarsh ips https://www. dosom eth ing.ors/us/about/easv-schola rsh ips Career. Militarv and Militarv Scholarship Resources

h tt ps: //www. ga f utu res. o rq/ca re e r-exp I o rati o n / www.ca reeronestop.o rg http ://vo u rf reeca ree rtest. co m / https://www. kha n acad emy.org/college-ca reers-more/ca reer-content/ca reer-profile-vid eos

Virtual Job Shadow - Link found in student's e class account www.todavsm ilita rv.co m www.goarmv.com www.airforce.com www.navy.mil www.marines.mil

www. afrotc. com/sch o I a rsh i ps www, goa rmv.com/rotc/h ish-schoo l-stud ents. htm I www, n ationa lgu a rd.com/ed ucation-prosra ms www.nrotc.navv.mil www.BYF.ors

Disclaimer: Pleose be qware that websites ore subject to tompering and chonge. While the included websites are known to be reputable, we ccrnnot gudrantee their content. SCHOOT COST COMPARISON

Enter the estimated costs tor each school. Schools must tell all applicants how much it will cost to attend their school for each academic year. Schools determine costs based upon average budgets that students spend for the following categories:

o College 1 College 2 College 3 Er/n The per cost per student to attend class and the use of Ef N otes: facilities, labs, Iibraries and all other related services.

rs The estimated cost for books and supplies. These items Notes: may include your own personal computer and other electronic devices.

The estimated cost for and food if you live in ffi housing Notes: a residence hall; if you live off campus, monthly food expenses will need to be estimated. lnclude costs for lunches and snacks.

The estimated cost for 2-3 round trips from your home ffi N otes: to school; if you live with your parents, the estimated commuting costs will need to be calculated. lf you have an automobile, you need to estimate monthly gas, insurance, and other maintenance. Also note any public'transportation costs, if any.

The estimated cost for clothing, grooming supplies, Notes: laundry and limited entertainment. Note that these costs may be similar among schools. But some localities may be more expensive.

a + $ $

Any other that you can with your expenses identify Notes: c schbol's Financial Aid Office

10 COUITSELOR'S GUIDE I rer.l ZO1S FINANCIAT AID COMPARISON

Enter the estimated financial aid you will receive from each school. Financial aid amounts will be listed in the Financial Award Letter from each of the schools to which you were admitted. College I College 2 College 3

$ $ $

lncludes the PELL FSEOG, Academic and SMART , N otes: grants.

$ $ $

lncludes any special grants the school may offer for Notes: academic or skill performance

lncludes any scholarships the school offer for may Notes: academic, athletic, artistic or other performance

lncludes the federal work:study programs where you Notes: will get paid for services performed.

government Stafford Ioans for both lncludes Notes: undergraduate and graduate students. Also includes the GRAD Plus loan for graduates.

$ $ $

schools will waive tuition or other for Some fees Notes: services in various departments.

Any other aid the school will provide. May include any Notes: private scholarships awarded.

$ l$ $,

cot NsELoR's GUIDE I rnU ZOre Standardized Tests Fact Sheet

The most common college entrance exams are the SAT and ACT. Please view college admissions websites for entry scores and entrance requirements. Students are responsible for registering for exams on their respective websites. Students are also responsible for having their test scores sent directly to the college from the appropriate testing service. Archer High School will not send student test scores. Most colleges require that scores are sent directly from the testing agency. Archer's College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) number is LLL8OZ.

Registration Websites

SAT: https : //www.col legeboa rd.orgl

ACT: https://www.act.orgl

SAT and ACT Test Prep Resources

SAT: https ://www. kha na cad e mv.orglsat https://collesereadiness.colleseboa rd.ors/sat/practice/dailv-practice-app https://colleee read iness.colleseboa rd.orglsat/practice/fu ll-lensth-practice-tests

p https : //co l leee rea d i n ess. co l l ege boa rd. o rglsa m le-o u estio n s

ACT: http://www.act.orslcontent/da m/act/unsecured/docu ments/Prepa ring-for-the- ACT.pdf http://www.act.orglcontent/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test- preparation. html Tips for writing your

o . Colleget application ess ay.. .

Here's advice from the people who read them! Why do colleges Does writing a college application essay seem like a daunting task to you? For most people, the answer is a resounding "yes!" However, the essay require essays? you your is also an opportunity for to show talents and creativity to their best A college application includes a lot advantage. of information about you, such as To help you get started, here are some insights on writing an essay from grades, recomrnendations, lists of the people who read hundreds of them every year - admission offrcers at your extracurricular activities and test ACM colleges. scores. All of that information is very important and helps admission officers form a picture of your accomplishments The essay is your chance to use your voice and abilities. However, while it tells about how other people see you, there The essay is the living, breathing part ofyour application to a college. In isn't rnuch about how you see yourself. the essay, you can speak in your own voice and personalize your application. It's that inside view - how you see Here's your opportunity to show something about you that doesn't really yourself - that colleges hope to find come across elsewhere in your application. in your essay, So, step back and be reflective. Think about who you are as an individual. The essay performs other functions, How do you view the world? What do you care about deeply? What experiences as well, such as: and people have been important in shaping you as a person? What are your . The essay can be a way of showing aspirations in life? that you have researched and thought carefully about the college to which It is in such reflection that you can find your own, unique voice. That's you are applying. It shows, in your the voice that will help you write an interesting essay that only you could own words, why you and the college have written. would be a good "match." Now, on to sorne nuts and bolts of writing the essay. . An essay demonsffates your writing ability, which is a key component Show your command of the basics to success in college. . In your essay, you can show that of good writing you are willing to put yourself into what you do. That kind of comruit- Here are some key points that admission officers look for in an essay: ment is an important part of effective Make sure to answer the essay question and to follow all the instructions leaming in college. And it shows that are given. the admission committee that you are someone who is willing and Start offwith a stong opening paragraph that captures the reader's interest. able to be a contributing member of Use a style that you find cornfortable and that is appropriate for the subject a comrnunity of learners. matter. . Your academic record is the central Use correct grarnmar, punctuation and spelling. and most important part of your Make a point and stick to it; develop your argunent or narrative, application. For seleotive colleges especially, your essay provides Check all ofyour facts. Do you rnention a date, place or event in your essay? additional insights about you as a Make sure it's correct. - student and as an individual - for a Have you given your reader complete information, so he or she won't be college to consider as it reviews confused? your application. (continued)

Beloit . Carleton . Coe . Colorado . Cornell . Grinnell . Knox Lake Forest . Lawrence . Luther . Macalester . Monmouth . Ripon . St. Olaf ffi{ This College Guide handont is published by the Associated Colleges of the Midwest. www.acm.edu o 2005 In general, it's best to be succinct. If there a recommended length for the essay, pay attention to it. Possible pitfalls when The essay should be neatly typed. writing an essay Remember that mistakes, especially sloppy mistakes, make it look like you l' don't take flre essay (and, by extension, the application) very seriously. . Writing a poem or making a videotape in place ofan essay is probably not a good idea, unless What to write about? Where to look you're applying to a specialized school that encourages such a for an essay topic submission.

Does the application ask you to choose a topic to write about? There are . Humor can be risky, so be careful as many (actually, many more) good topics as there are applicants. Here are how you use it. some ideas for where you might look for an essay topic: . "Honor code" rules are in effect . Do you have hobbies and non-school pursuits that really excite you and when you write an essay, so do that engage your heart and mind? Writing about your out-of-classroom your own work and don't make things up. interests could help bring out a pad ofyou that's not covered - or not covered completely and to your fullest advantage elsewhere in your application. As a practical rnatter, other items - in the application, such as letters of . Is there a social cause that you hold near and dear? Remember, an essay is recommendation, make it quite not an academic paper; but a cause that you feel passionately about, and possible that you would be found that has been in your thoughts and activities, might be the basis for a out if you tried to make things up. strong essay. . Perhaps there is an event (local, national or international) that has touched you in a personal way, Some final tips . Is there an academic subject that really sparks your interest? Why does the . Leave yourself time to rewrite subject engage you? Has it led to experiences or study outside ofschool? and reyise. For the great majority There may be essay material that goes beyond the courses you took or ofpeople, this is not an easy scores on AP tests. assignment. Start early and leave plenty of tiurel Most likely that means to give yourself weeks (not How to handle a topic days, and certainly not hours!) to rework your essay. Often, colleges will ask you, the applicant, to write about an experience . Ifyour essay is longer than three you've had, an achievemeut your in life, or someone who has had a significant pages (unless the instuctions call influence on your life. In handling such a topic or, for that - matteq any topic for something longer), then it had you select - go beyond the what and dig into the how and rfty. In other better be interesting! Think hard words, don't settle for simply providing a description of an event. Take the about what you really want to focus next step and tell about the impact the situation had on you. For example: on, and take out whatever gets away . This is a personal essay, not a travelogue. So, if you're writing about a trip frorn your cenhal point, to another country, tell about how your experiences effected you, and why . The admission committee will they were interesting or meaningful to you. In other words, the people take your essay seriously. You reading the essay are interested in what makes you tick and how you got should, too. You have a lot to gain the way you are, not in how the trains run in Paris. by putting in the time and effort to . Are you writing a tribute to your grandparents aud their influence on your write a good essay! childhood? Be personal and specific, not just sentimental. Explain how the particular things your grandparents did or said were important to you. Suggested reading . Did you overcome an athletic injury and recover to perform well? A description of the type of cast you wore and your rehab routine is not likely The College Application Essay by to make a compelling essay. However, your reflections on what it felt like Sarah Myers McGinty (The College to be watching your teammates, instead of competing alongside them, Board, NewYork, NY). might be the basis of a memorable essay.

Tbts College Guidehandolt is published by the Associated Colleges of the Midwest. Visit the ACM website for more pre-college planning materials. www.acm.edu @ z00s Hope and Zell Miller Programs

HOPE Scholarshin IIOPE Scholarship is a merit-baseci arvard available to Georgia residents rvho have demonstrated acacletnic achievement. A Flope Scholarship recipient musf graduate from iiigh school rvitlt a utiuintum 3.0 grade point average and maiutain a minimurn 3.0 curnulative postsecoudary grade point average to retnain eligible. The scholarship provides tuition assistanc,e to students pursuing an undergraduate deglee at a HOPF; Scholarship eligible college or nniversity in Georgia. A seven-year lirnit exists for students first receiving the HOPE Scholar:ship during the 2011-201? academic year (FYl2) or later.

HOPE Grant IIOPE Grant is avaiiable to Georgia residents who are pursuing a cefiit-rcate or diplorna. A I{OPE Grant recipient urust maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative postsecol)dary grade point average to retnain eligible. The grant provides tuition assistance to studeuts enrolled at a IIOPE Grant eligible college or university in Georgia.

Zell Miller Scholarshirr Zell Miller Scholarship is a urerit-ba-sed arvard available to Georgia residents, similar to the I{OPE Scholarship, but rvith more striugeut academic requiremeuts and ahiglrer level of hrition assistance. A Zell lr{ltler Scholalship recipient must graduate from high school lvith a minimum 3.7 glade point average combined with a rninimurn SAT score of 1,200 r:n the rnath ald reading portions or a nrinimum cornposite AC'T score of 26 fur single nafional test adnrinistration and m.aintain a miaimum 3.3 cunrulative postsecondary g:'ade poi:rt average tcl rernail eligible. FJligible students are provided fuil-tuition assistance r.vhile pursuing an undergraduate degree to attend a Zeli Miller Scholarship eligible college or university in Cieorgia. A seven-year limitexists fol studeuts firstreceiving theZ,el) Millel Scholarstiip dLrring the 201l-2012 acadernic year (FY12) or later'.

Zell Miller Grant Zeil lvliller 6rant is a merit-based prograllr available to Georgia residents pursuing a certificate or diplorna. A Zell Ivliller Grant recipient rrust rnaintain a minirrrum 3.5 culnulative postsecondary grade point average to rernain eligible. Hligible students are provided full-standar:d tuition assistance rvhile enrolled at a Zell lt4iller Crant eligible college or university in Cieorgia.

lnformation was provided by the Georgia Student Finance commission (https://esfc.eeorsia.eov/hope).

For more information about award amount and eligible institutions please visit the Ga Futu res website (https ://www.safutu res. orslhope- state-a id-p rosra ms/ho pe-ze I l-m i I le r-schola rs h i ps/).

Mwffi' Se Georgia Student HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarship Programs Finance Commission Frequently Asked Questions GSFCI (current high school graduates)

Visit the HOPE Scholarship and Zell Miller Scholarship page for more information about the programs.

What is the HOPE Scholarship and what are the academic elieibility requirements? What is the Zell Miller Scholarship and what are the academic elieibilitv reouirements? What are rieor course requirements? ls the HOPE Scholarship available to hieh school and home studv students? How do I apnlv for the HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarship? How much does HOPE Scholarship and Zell Miller Scholarshio pav? How is mv GPA calculated for scholarship purposes? How do I view mv HOPE/Zell Miller GPA? How can I be evaluated for HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship if I eraduated from a hieh school outside Georgia or outside the countrv? How does a home studv student qualifu for the HOPE Scholarship? How does a home studv student qualifv for the Zell Miller Scholarship? Are MOWR/dual credit enrollment hours included in the elisibilitv determination for the HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarship? What do I need to do to continue to oualifv for the HOPE or Zell M iller Scholarship? Are there anv limitations to receivine the HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarship? What other elisibilitv reouirements must I meet in order to receive the scholarshio?

What is the HOPE Scholarship and what are the academic eligibility requirementsT The HOPE Scholarship is a merit based scholarship that provides assistance towards the cost of tuition at eligible public and private Georgia postsecondary institutions. A student must graduate from an eligible high schoolwith a minimum 3,0 HOPE GPA (as calculated by GSFC) and meet specific risor course requirements.

What is the Zell Miller Scholarchip and what are the academic eligibility requlrementsT The Zell Miller Scholarship is a merit based scholarship that provides full tuition at a public postsecondary institution and tuition assistance at an eligible private postsecondary institution. A student must graduate from an eligible high school as valedictorian or salutatorian (meeting the requirements of the HOPE Scholarship) or graduate with a minimum 3.7 Zell Miller GPA (as calculated by CSFC) along with a minimum combined score of 1200 on the math and reading portions of the SAT or a minimum composite score of 26 on the ACT (single national administration of either test) and meet specific risor course requirements.

What are rigor cource requirementsT Students graduating from an eligible high school must meet rigorous course requirements (in addition to other requirements) in order to be eligible for the HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships. Discuss course options with your high school counselor if you are not sure whether a course meets the rigor requirement. o Graduate on or after May 1,2076 - must earn three rigor course credits o Graduate on or after May 7,2017 and beyond - must earn four rigor course credits

ls the HOPEScholarchip auailable to high schooland homestudJstudents? High school and home study students are not eligible to receive the HOPE Scholarship.

How do I apply for the HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarchip? A student may apply for the scholarships by completing the GSFAPPS (one time completion) or FAFSA (completed each academic year). Check with the postsecondary institution's financial aid office for scholarship eligibility after submitting an application. Additional documentation may be required by the postsecondary institution. How much do* HOPEScholarchip andZell MillerScholarchip pay? The HOPE and ZellMillerScholarships assists with the cost of tuition at eligible postsecondary institutions and the award amount is dependent upon the specific institution.

How is my GPA calculated forscholarchip purposesT GSFC calculates the GPA based solely on core course data (English, math, socialstudies, science, and foreign language only) transmitted from the high school, by June 30, for graduating seniors. GSFC cannot change or alter that data in any way. Any grade discrepancies or errors must be corrected by the high school and then resubmitted to GSFC. Contact your high school counselor if you have questions regarding courses and/or grades.

Howdo I uiew my HOPETZellMillerGPA? You may view your HOPE/Zell Miller GPA calculation by logging into your account at www.GAfutures.org.

How can I be eraluated for HOPElZell MillerScholarchip if I gnduated from a high schal outside Georyia? Students that graduate from a high school outside Georgia must be manually evaluated by GSFC. To be eva luated:

1, Complete the GSFAPPS at www.GAfutures.ore and, 2. Complete the "Student lnformation" section on the Request for Out-of-Stote Hiah School Transcript Evoluotion form. Submit the form to your high school to complete the back of the form and, 3. Provide your official final high schooltranscript.

How does a home study student qualify for the HOPE Scholarship? Home study students may qualify for the HOPE Scholarship in one of two ways. o Score in the 75th percentile nationally on the ACT or SAT college admissions test o Attempt 30 semester/45 quarter postsecondary semester hours, excluding MOWR/dual credit enrollment hours taken priorto home study completion, with a minimum 3.0 cumulative postsecondary GPA and then retroactively receive HOPE Scholarship funds

More information regarding eligibility requirements for home study students may be found on the HOPE Scholarship Proeram page.

How dos a home study student qualify for the Zell Miller Scholarchip? A home study student may qualify for the Zell Miller Scholarship in one of two ways: o Score in the 93'd percentile nationally on the ACT or SAT; test taken prior to home study completion o Attempt 30 semester/45 quarter postsecondary hours, excluding MOWR/dual credit enrollment hours taken prior to home study completion, with a minimum 3,3 cumulative postsecondary GPA, along with the required test scores, and then retroactively receive Zell Miller Scholarship funds. ACT/SAT must have been taken prior to home study completion.

More information regarding eligibility requirements for home study students may be found on the Zell Miller Scholarship Proeram page.

Are MOWR/dual credit enrollment hours included in the eligibility determination for the HOPE orZell Miller ScholarchipT High school credit will be given for degree-level core courses taken as a MOWR/dual credit enrollment student and is included in determining a student's high school HOPE GPA. The dual credit enrollment coursework cannot be used to gain HOPE Scholarship eligibility while in high school or to determine HOPE Scholarship eligibility for non-HOPE scholars. What do I need to do to continue to qualify forthe HOPE orZell MillerScholarchip? ln order to continue receiving the HOPE Scholarship, a student must maintain a minimum cumulative 3,0 postsecondary GPA at designated checkpoints. The cumulative 3.0 postsecondary GPA does not include MOWR/dual credit enrollment coursework taken prior to high school graduation or home study completion, Those checkpoints are: end-of-spring and 30/60190 attempted semester hours or 45/901735 quarter hours. A student will lose the HOPE Scholarship if their GPA is below the minimum requirement at one of the checkpoints and may only regain the scholarship one time. A student is ineligible to receive HOPE Scholarship funds once the student has reached the t27 hour limit, ln order to continue receiving the Zell Miller Scholarship, a student must maintain a minimum cumulative 3,3 postsecondary GPA at designated checkpoints. The cumulative 3.3 postsecondary GPA does not include MOWR/dual credit enrollment coursework taken prior to high school graduation or home study completion. Those checkpoints are: end-of-spring and 30160/90 attempted semester hours or 45/90/735 quarter hours. A student will lose the Zell Miller Scholarship if their GPA is below the minimum requirement at one of the checkpoints and may only regain the scholarship one time. A student is ineligible to receive Zell Miller Scholarship funds once the student has reached the 127 hour limit.

Are there any limitations to r*eiving the HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarchip? A student may receive the scholarship until one of the following occurs: r Seven full years have elapsed following high school graduation/home study completion, or o Reach l-27 semester or quarter limit, or . Upon receiving a baccalaureate degree.

What other elrgibility requirements must I meet in order to receive the HOP|Zell MillerScholarshipT ln addition to the required minimum GPA and rigor requirement, you must also meet each of the following: o U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen; o Legal resident of Georgia; r Registered with the Selective Service (if applicable); o Maintain satisfactory academic progressi . ln compliance with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990; and o Do not owe a refund or be in default on a student financial aid program,

Check with your college's financialaid office for additional information and eligibility requirements.

72/2t/16

What is federal student aid? !! It's money from the federal government-specifically, the U.S. Department of Education-that helps you pay for college, career school, or graduate school expenses. More than $150 billion in federal student aid is available through grants, work-study, and loans every year.

Who gets federal student aid?

Every student who meets certain eligibility requirements can get some type of federal student aid, regardless of age or family income. lf you are a student, some of the most basic eligibility requirements are that you must * demonstrate financial need (for most programs); * be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen;

o have a valid Social Security number; o be registered with Selective Service if you're a male between the ages of 18 and 25; . be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible degree or certificate program; o be enrolled at least half-time (for most programs); u maintain satisfactory academic progress in college, career school, or graduate school; . sign the certification statement on the Free Apptication Federal for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA@) stating that r you are not in default on a federal student loan and do not owe money on a federal student grant and Studer$t you will use federal student aid only for educational lffi#&# " }JR tiifi * *,.&'J purposes; and ;':')i;9f i.i"t*i !i * show you're qualified to obtain a college or career # Hi [J l*"-:":tr school education by ln OFFICE of the . having a high school diploma or a General U.S. DIPARTMENT of EDUCATI0N Educational Development (GED) certificate or a state-recognized equivalent; or PROUD SPONSOR of . completing a high-school education in a home- school setting approved under state law; or the AMtRICAN MIND@ , enrolling in an eligible career pathways program. Find more details about eligibility requirements at

Stud e ntAi d.gov/e I i gi b i I ity. How do I apply for federal What information do I student aid? report on the FAFSA?

1,. Create an FSA lD. Students, parents, and borrowers should create The FAFSA asks for information about you an FSA lD, made up of a username and password, to submit their (your name, Social Security number, date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA@) online and to of birth, address, etc.) and about your access U.S. Department of Education websites. Your FSA lD is financial situation. A series of questions will used to confirm your identity and electronically sign your federal also determine whether you must provide student aid documents. To create an FSA lD, information about your parents. The answer visit StudentAid.gov/fsa id. depends on whether you're considered a "dependent" or an "independent" student. 2. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA@) Learn more about dependency status at at fafsa.gov. StudentAid.gov/dependency. lf you have quick, gives Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free and and it done your taxes before filling out your you pay access to the largest sources of financial aid to for college or FAFSA, be sure to consider the option you need paper career school-federal, state, and school sources. lf a the FAFSA offers you to use the IRS Data FAFSA, contact our ED Pubs Distribution Center at www.edpuhs.gov Retrieval Tool (lRS DRT). The IRS DRT or toll-free at L-877-433-7827. takes you to the IRS website where you can preview your income and tax information before agreeing to have it transferred to your FAFSA. For more information, visit StudentAid.gov/irsdrt. When do I complete the FAFSA?

lf you plan to attend college from July l, 2017 through June 30, 2018, you'll be able to submit a 2017-lB FAFSA beginning on Oct. 1, 2016. You'll be required to report income and tax Information from 2015. Where does my FIFSA infsrmation go once I N0TE: /n the past, you couldn't submit fhe FAFSA until Jan. 1 of the year you planned to attend college. The change to Oct. I is a permanent submit it? change, and you'll be able to complete and submit your FAFSA as early as )ct. 1 every year. Once you submit your FAFSA, your information is shared with the colleges or career schools you included on your FAFSA, and in some cases with your state's higher education agency.

Why should I apply as s00n as possible? . The financial aid off ice at the school to which you applied for admission Your FAFSA helps you apply for federal, state, and school financial aid. uses your FAFSA information to Schools and states often use FAFSA information to award nonfederal determine how much federal student aid, and their deadlines vary, so apply as soon as possible. Check with aid you may receive at that school. the schools you're interested in to find out about their deadlines. You can find state deadlines at fafsa.gov. n lf the school has its own funds to use for financial aid, it might use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for that aid. (The school might also have other forms it wants Do I need to apply for financial aid you to fill out to apply for aid there, so year? check with the school's financial aid every office to ask about that.) Yes, you must reapply for aid every year. Also, if you change schools, . Your FAFSA information also goes to your aid doesn't automatically transfer with you. Check with your new the higher education agencies in the school to find out what you need to do to continue receiving financial states where your chosen schools are aid. lf you're not ready to apply for federal student aid but would located. Many states have financial like to estimate your aid, visit StudentAid.gov/fafsa/estimate to use aid funds that they give out based on FAFSA4caste4 an early eligibility estimator. FAFSA information. TYPES OF FEDERAL STUDENT AID: GRANTS, WORK.STUDY, AND LOANS fhere are three categories of federal student aid: grants, work-study, and loans.

Program and Type of Aid Eligibility and Program lnformation Annual Award Amounts (subject to change)

Fede6l Pell Gtant For undergraduates with financial need who have not earned bachelor's or protessional degreesi in some cases, a student enrolled in a poslbaccalaureate Amounts can change annually. teacher certilication pro8ram may also receive a Federal Pell Grant" Grant: does not have to be repaid For 2OU-18 (July I, 2Ol7 to June 30, 2OI8), the award amount is up to A student can receive a Federal Pell Gcnt lor no more than 12 semesteE or the equivalent (roughly six yeats). $5,920.

For Fedeal Pell GEnt details and updats, visit StudcntAid.goylpell-grant.

Federal Supplemental Educational For undergraduates with exceptionai financial need; Federal Pell Grant recipients take priority; funds depend on availability at school. up to $4,000. Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) For FSEOG details and updates, Grant: does not hare to be repaid visit studenlAid.gov/lseog.

Teacher Education Assistance for College For undergraduate, postbaccalaureate, and gaduate students who are completing or plan to complete course rcrk needed to begin a career in teachlng. As Up to $4,000. and Hisher Education (TEACH) Gmnt a condition for receiving this grant, student must sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve in which the student agrees to perform four yea6 of qualifying teaching service and meet other requirements. For TEACH Grant details and updates, Grantr does not have to be repaid unless visit StudantAid.govneach. student larls to carry out seruice obligation

lraq and Atghanistan For students who are not Pell-eligible due only to having less financial need than is required to receive Pell funds, and whose parent or guardian died as a The grant affird can be up to the milimum Federal Pell Grant amounl Seruice Grani result of military service in lraq or Atghanistan alter the events of 9/11. (see above) but cannot exceed your cost of attending schml.

Grant: does not have to be repaid A student can receive an lraq and Afghanistan Sefrice Grant for no more than 12 semesters or the equivalent (roughly six years). For lcq and Alghanistan Service Grant details and updates, visit StudentAid.gov/lraq-Alghanistan.

Federal Work-Study For undergraduate and graduate studentsi jobs can be on campus or off campus. Money is earned while attending school No annual minimum or maximum amounts,

For Federal Work-Study details and updates, visit StudentAid.goY/workstudy.

0irect Subsidized Loans For undergraduate students who have tinancial need; the U-S. Deparlment ol Education generally pays interest whlle studenl is in schml and during certain Up io $5,50O, depending on grade lewl and dependency status. other periods; student must be at least half-time. lnterest rate ls 3.76% for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2016, and befqe July 1, 2012 and tixed Loan: must be repaid with interest for the life of the loan. Borrowers may not receive this typ€ of loan for more thao 150 percent of the length of their program of study; the U.S. Department of For Direct Subsidized Loan details and updates, Edu@tion may stop paying interest if a student who received Direct Subsidized Loans for the maximum period continues enrollment. visit StIdentAid.goy/sub-rnsut.

Direct unsubsidized Loans For undergcduate and graduate or professional students; borrower is responsible lor all interesh student must be at least hall-time; financial need is not up to $20,500 (less any subsidized amount received for the same period), required. lnterest rate is 3.76% (undergraduate) and 5.31% (graduale or professional] Ior loans lirst disbursed on or after July 1, 2016, and before July I, depending on grade level and dependency status. Loan: must be repaid with interest 2017, and fixed ltr the life ol the loan. For oirect LJnsubsidired Loan details and updates, visit SlrdrntAld.goY/suh-rnsub,

Direct PLUS Loans For parents of dependent undergraduate students and for graduate or professional studentsi bonower is responsible for all interest; student must be enrolled Maximum amount is cost ol attendance minus arry other financial aid at least halfiime; financial need is not required. lnterest rate is 6.3I% for loans lirst disbursed on or after July 1, 2016, and before July l, 2017. and fixed received. Loanr must be repaid with interest for the lile ot the loan. For Direct PLUS Loan details and updates, visit Slud€nlAid.gov/pltrs.

Federal Perkins Loans For undergEduate and graduate students with €xceptional financial need, lnterest rate is 5% and fixed tor the life of the loan, Eligibility depends on the [,ndergraduate studentsr up to $5,500; graduate and professional students: student's financial need and other eligibility criteria as determined by the shool. lf you have questions about Perkins Loan eligibility, please contact your up to $8,000. Loan; must be repaid with interest school's linancial aid olfice. Fir Fedecl Perkins Loan details and updates, visit Slud!nlAid.gov/p€rkins.

For more information on interest rates, visit StudentAid.gov/interest. For more information on types of federal student aid, visit StudentAid.gov/types. I completed the FAFSA ... Now what?

After you submit your FAFSA, you'll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR), which is a summary of the FAFSA data you submitted, How much will I get? e You'll get your SAR within three days (if you complete your FAFSA online) to three weeks (if When a school's financial aid office sends you an award you mail in your paper FAFSA) after you submit letter, the letter will list the types of aid and amounts your FAFSA. (from all sources) the school will offer you,

" Be sure to look over your SAR to make sure you How much aid you receive depends on a number of didn't make any mistakes on your FAFSA. factors, including * The SAR won't tell you how much financial aid u cost of attendance (for each school); you'll get; it's a summary of the information being Expected Family Contribution (EFC)-(EFC does not sent to the schools you listed on your FAFSA. ' represent a dollar amount but rather it is a number o You might see a note on your SAR saying you've used to calculate how much financial aid you're been selected for verification; or !our school eligible to receive based on the information in your might contact you to inform you that you've been FAFSA); selected. Verification is the process your school . year in school; and uses to confirm that the data reported on your FAFSA is accurate, Don't worry, your school will ' enrollment status (that is, full-time, half-time, etc.). you process. help through that You can compare aid offers from the schools to which o If you don't need to make any changes to the you applied and see which school is the most affordable information listed on your SAR, just keep it for once financial aid is taken into account, Keep in mlnd your records. that the financial aid office at the school will determine how much financial aid you're eligible to receive. Contact * To find out how to correct mistakes, or update the school's financial aid office if you have any questions your tax return or other information in your FAFSA, about your award letter or the aid being offered to you. v i s it St u d e ntA i d. gov/f afs a/n ext-ste ps/a c c ept-a i d you or contact the school are applying to for For more information on how aid is calculated, visit i nstructions. StudentAid.gov/how-calcu lated. o Next, expect to receive an award letter from the schools at which you were accepted for admission,

Should I accept all the aid l'm offered? What's an award letter? You don't have to. When your school's financial aid office sends you an award letter, they'll ask you to indicate the lf you applied for admission to a college or career school financial aid you want to accept. Look carefully at your (although and have been accepted not all schools require options and make sure you accept only what you need. students to be accepted before telling them of their A good approach is to eligibility for aid), and you listed that school on your FAFSA, the school will calculate your aid and send you u first, accept free money (scholarships and grants), an electronic or paper "award letter" telling you how i.e., funds you don't have to pay back; you're receive much aid eligible to at that school. . then, accept earned money (work-study), i.e., funds you earn through a job; and The timing of the award letter varies from school to school and could be as early as springtime (awarding . finally, accept borrowed money (student loans), i.e., for the fall) or as late as immediately before you start money you have to pay back with interest, you school. lt depends on when apply and how the Look carefully at your options, especially when it comes prefers school to schedule awarding of aid. to loans that you'll have to pay back. For more details on accepting aid, visit StudentAid.gov/fafsa/next-steps /accept-aid. How will I receive my aid?

Your college or career school-not the U.S. Department of Education-will distribute your aid and, in most cases, your federal student aid will be applied directly to your school account. The financial aid staff at your school will explain exactly how and when your aid will be disbursed (paid out). lf you're getting federal student loans for the first time, you must complete entrance counseling and sign a master promissory note before you Do I have to repay my loans? receive your loan money, Yes. Student loans, unlike grants and work-study, are borrowed money that must be repaid, with interest, just like car loans and home mortgages. You cannot have these loans canceled because you didn't like the education you received, didn't get a job in your field of study, or are having financial difficulty. So think about the amount you'll have to repay before you take out Contact Us a loan. While you don't have to make payments on your student U.S. Department of Education " loans while you're enrolled in an eligible school, you don't Federal Student Aid lnformation Center (FSAIC) have to wait until you graduate to start repaying your loans. P.O. Box 84 For detailed information on repayment, visit StudentAid.gov Washington, DC 20044-0084 lrepay. 1-800-4-FED-A I D (1-800- 433-3243) TTY users can call 1-800-730-8913. * You can use our repayment estimator to estimate your Callers in locations without access to 1-800 federal student loan payments under each repayment plan. numbers may call l-334-523-2691 (this is not Visit StudentAid.gov/repayment-estimator to use the tool. a toll-free number).

Stay Connected Access your federal student loan information at StudentAid.gov/login What else do I need to remember lnformation for U.S. armed forces StudentAid.gov/military when applying for financial aid?

n Free help is available any time during the application ,tro.ratstudentAid process, Online help is available while you complete your fl application at fafsa.gov, and you can get free information and help from your school counselor, the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend, or the U.S. Department of rnrsr $ffi Education at StudentAid.gov or 1-800-4-FED-AlD (1-8OO- 433-3243). You should never have to pay for help! , Your Student Aid Report(SAR) has to be correct to YOUltrllfr /FederarstudentAid ensure that you receive your aid, The U.S. Department of Education will send you your SAR, Review it and, if necessary, make changes or corrections following the The information in this guide was compiled in instructions in the SAR. summer 2016. For changes to federal student aid programs since then, visit StudentAid.gov. r Be sure to always respond to any correspondence your school sends you. Printed: September 2016 ' Review award letters, compare the types and amounts of aid you are offered from each school, and contact the school's financial aid office if you have any questions about the aid being offered. Financial aid is a complicated topic, so finding your way through the process can be challenging. But we've got resources to help. Topic Resource FAFSA@ Fill out the FAFSA@ fafsa.sov FAFSA chanses for 20L7-78 StudentAid.sov / fafsa-chanees Basic FAFSA info: what is it and how do you fill it out StudentAid.gov/fafsa and StrrdentAid,sov / comDlete FSA ID fusername and password for FAFSA & other sitesJ StudentAid.eov/fsaid Dependency status for FAFSA purposes S tu d en tAit{. gov /d ep e n de n cy Determining which parent's info to report on the FAFSA StudentAid.sov/fafsa-parert How aid is calculated fincludine link to detailed EFC infol StudentAid.sov /how-calculated Tvoes of Aid/Gettine Aid Tvoes of financial aid StudentAid.sov/types Who can get federal student aid Stud entAicl.eov /clisibil ity Pell Lifetime ElieibiliW Used StudentAid.sov /nell-limi t Finding and applying for scholarships StudentAi d.sov /scholarshins Loan interest rates and fees StudentAi d.scv /interest Aid for militarv families Stud entAicl.eov /militarv Avoidine financial aid scams 5tudentAid.sov/scams Student Account Access My Federal StudentAid Oos in to see srantand loan recordsl StudentAid.rov/login Repavins Loans Loan reoavment StudentAid.sov/renav Renavment Estimator lhelos vou comDare renavment plansl StudentAid. gov /reuavm ent-estirnator Income-driven repayment plans (e.g., Pay As You Earn plan, StudcntAic[.gov/idr Income-Based olanl Public Service Loan Forsiveness Stu d entAie[,sov /Dubli cservice Loan forgiveness in general StudentAid.eov /forsiveness Loan forsiveness for teachers StudentAi d.sov/teach-forgive Preparins for Colleee College Preparation Checklist academic and financial StudentAid.gov/ ch ecklist preparation, for elementary school through adult students Middle school preparation StudentAid.sov/early Special Audiences Info for Darents ftax benefits. supDort vour child. colleee costs') Stu dentAicl. sor, /n arent Graduate school fundine StudentAicl.sov/srad Financial aid for adult students StudentAid.gov/resources#adult-stu d ents Non-U.S, citizen eligibility StuclentAi rl,gov/noncitieen Going to college in another country StudentAid.gov/intern ational Publications, Videos, lnfographics Fact sheets, infographics, brochures, videos on all topics StudentAid,gov/resources SocialMedia @FAFSA Twitter feed wwwtwitter.com/FAFSA Federal Student Aid YouTube channel rvwwYouTube,corn/Federal Studen tAicl Federal Student Aid Facebook page www.Fa cebook.com/FecleralStudentAid

0Da!r tn tSn$ltfib ^4 I FederalStuderftffi** r8e Ar,tt Iiicrit* [{ I NL1* ,,tIlit sl Ef]df,8Ytr!{ I September 2016 THE FAFSA® PROCESS Each year, the federal government provides more than $150 billion in DID YOU KNOW? financial aid (grants, work-study, and Some schools won’t consider you for merit loans) for college or career school. scholarships (scholarships based on To apply for this aid, you must academic achievement or other talents or complete the Free Application for skills) until you’ve submitted a FAFSA, so complete one even if you think you won’t Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Also, qualify for federal aid. state governments and many colleges and career schools use your FAFSA information to award you their aid. RELAX! The FAFSA is designed to be simple to fill out. Tips throughout the application help you understand the questions. Most people finish filling out the FAFSA in less than half an hour!

PREPARING The FAFSA process is quicker and easier when you have a username and password called an FSA ID. (If your parent is providing information FOR THE on your FAFSA, he or she will need his ® or her own FSA ID as well.) Learn more about the FSA ID and how to create FAFSA yours at StudentAid.gov/fsaid.

GATHER THIS INFORMATION The FAFSA asks questions about you and your finances, so have the information below handy.

Social Alien Federal tax Records TAX 122-22-2322 Security No. XXXXX X registration information or of untaxed number number tax returns income

Cash, savings, Investments and checking other than the account home in which DON’T HAVE ALL YOUR balances you live INFO READY YET? That’s okay; you can start the FAFSA, save it, and come back later to finish it. (To find out whether you need to report info about your parents, visit StudentAid.gov/dependency.)

FILLING OUT Each October, the FAFSA is available for the next school year. ® It’s important to fill it out as soon as possible to meet school and state THE FAFSA financial aid deadlines.

SUBMISSION OPTIONS MEETING FINANCIAL AID DEADLINES FAFSA.GOV Electronic form (fill out at fafsa.gov) Each state and school has its own FAFSA deadline. Check a college’s or career school’s deadline on its website or by calling its financial Mail-in application (download aid office. Most state deadlines are at PDF at fafsa.gov or order a printed fafsa.gov/deadlines.htm. PDF at www.edpubs.gov)

Electronic submission by your DID YOU KNOW? college or career school You may be able to retrieve and transfer (ask if they can submit the FAFSA tax information into the form for you) automatically using the Internal Revenue Service Data Retrieval Tool (IRS DRT).

PROCESSING After you submit your FAFSA, your ® information will be sent to the colleges and/or career schools you THE FAFSA listed on the form.

PROCESS TIMELINE

You’ll receive an e-mail within a few Your college or career school might days, letting you know your FAFSA request additional information from was processed. you. Make sure you respond by any deadlines.

FIRST-TIME APPLICANTS RENEWAL APPLICANTS

You’ll receive an aid offer from each college or You’ll receive an aid offer from your school career school you applied to and listed on your stating the amount of aid you could receive FAFSA, stating the amount of aid you could at the school. receive at the school.

Review and compare your offers, and decide which school to attend based on the school’s net cost and how well the school suits your needs. RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID

Formally accept the school’s aid offer - and remember, if you’re offered student loans, borrow only as much as you really need.

Your school will handle your aid. Ask the Get free assistance and answers financial aid office when and how your aid will be at fafsa.gov or 1-800-4-FED-AID paid out, what it’ll cover, and how much (if any) money will come directly to you once tuition and (1-800-433-3243). fees are paid.

StudentAid.gov FAFSA on the Web Worksheet 2018 – 2019 fafsa.gov

Check with your financial aid administrator for these states and territories: AL, AS *, AZ, CO, FM *, GA, GU *, HI *, MH *, MT *, NE, NH *, NM, OR, PR, PW *, RI *, DO NOT MAIL THIS WORKSHEET. SD *, UT, VA *, VI *, WI and WY *. The FAFSA on the Web Worksheet provides a preview of the questions Pay attention to any symbols listed after your state deadline. State Deadline that you may be asked while completing the Free Application for Alaska Performance Scholarship – June 30, 2018 # $ AK Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) online at fafsa.gov. Alaska Education Grant – As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ Academic Challenge – June 1, 2018 (date received) AR Workforce Grant – Check with your financial aid administrator. You must complete and submit a FAFSA to apply for federal student Higher Education Opportunity Grant – June 1, 2018 (date received) aid and for most state and college aid. Write down notes to help you For many state financial aid programs – March 2, 2018 (date easily complete your FAFSA anytime on or after October 1, 2017. postmarked) + * For additional community college Cal Grants – September 2, 2018 CA (date postmarked) + * See the table to the right for state deadlines. Your application must Contact the California Student Aid Commission or your financial aid be submitted by midnight Central time. Also pay attention to the administrator for more information. CT February 15, 2018 (date received) # * symbols that may be listed after your state deadline. Check with your FAFSA completed by May 1, 2018 # high school counselor or your college’s financial aid administrator DC For DCTAG, complete the DC OneApp and submit supporting documents by May 31, 2018. # about other deadlines. The Federal deadline is June 30, 2019. DE April 15, 2018 (date received) FL May 15, 2018 (date processed) July 1, 2018 (date received) – Earlier priority deadlines may exist for IA • This Worksheet is optional and should only be completed if certain programs. * you plan to use FAFSA on the Web. ID Opportunity Grant – March 1, 2018 (date received) # * IL As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ • Sections in purple are for parent information. IN April 15, 2018 (date received) KS April 1, 2018 (date received) # * • This Worksheet does not include all the questions from the KY As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ LA July 1, 2019 (July 1, 2018 recommended) FAFSA. The questions that are included are ordered as they MA May 1, 2018 (date received) # appear on FAFSA on the Web. When you are online, you may MD March 1, 2018 (date received) STATE AID DEADLINES be able to skip some questions based on your answers to ME May 1, 2018 (date received) MI March 1, 2018 (date received) earlier questions. MN 30 days after term starts (date received) February 1, 2018 # Applications accepted through April 2, 2018 $ MO (date received) Applying is easier with the IRS Data Retrieval Tool! MP April 30, 2018 (date received) # * MTAG and MESG Grants – September 15, 2018 (date received) MS Students and parents who have filed their 2016 federal tax return HELP Scholarship – March 31, 2018 (date received) may be able to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to easily, accurately NC As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ ND As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ and securely transfer their tax information into the FAFSA form. 2017-2018 Tuition Aid Grant recipients – April 15, 2018 (date received) All other applicants NJ - Fall and spring terms – September 15, 2018 (date received) Sign your FAFSA with an FSA ID! - Spring term only – February 15, 2019 (date received) Silver State Opportunity Grant – As soon as possible after For information about the FSA ID, including how to apply, go to NV October 1, 2017 $ StudentAid.gov/fsaid. All other aid – Check with your financial aid administrator. * NY June 30, 2019 (date received) * Your FSA ID allows you to electronically sign your FAFSA. If you are OH October 1, 2018 (date received) OK As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ providing parent information, one parent must also sign your FAFSA. All first-time applicants enrolled in a: community college; business/ To sign electronically, your parent should also apply for an FSA ID. trade/technical school; hospital school of nursing; designated PA Pennsylvania Open-Admission institution; or non-transferable two- year program – August 1, 2018 (date received) All other applicants – May 1, 2018 (date received) * Free help is available! Tuition Grants – June 30, 2018 (date received) You do not have to pay to get help or submit your FAFSA. Submit SC SC Commission on Higher Education Need-based Grants – As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ your FAFSA free online at fafsa.gov. Federal Student Aid provides State Grant – Prior-year recipients receive award if eligible and apply free help online at fafsa.gov or you can call 1-800-4-FED-AID by January 16, 2018. All other awards made to neediest applicants. $ TN Tennessee Promise – January 16, 2018 (date received) (1-800-433-3243). TTY users (hearing impaired) can call State Lottery – Fall term, September 1, 2018 (date received); spring 1-800-730-8913. and summer terms, February 1, 2019 (date received) As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 TX Texas public colleges – March 15, 2018 # * Texas private colleges – Check with your financial aid administrator. * NOTES: VT As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ * WA As soon as possible after October 1, 2017 $ PROMISE Scholarship – March 1, 2018. New applicants must submit additional application. Contact your financial aid administrator or WV state agency. WV Higher Education Grant Program – April 15, 2018 # For priority consideration, submit application by date specified. + Applicants encouraged to obtain proof of mailing. $ Awards made until funds are depleted. * Additional forms may be required. The Federal Student Aid logo and FAFSA are registered trademarks of Federal Student Aid, U.S. Department of Education. FAFSA.GOV 2018-2019 FAFSA ON THE WEB WORKSHEET PAGE 1 SECTION 1 - STUDENT INFORMATION

After you are online, you can add up to ten colleges on your FAFSA. The colleges will receive the information from your processed FAFSA.

Student’s Last Name First Name Social Security Number

Student Citizenship Status (check one of the following) ❑ U.S. citizen (U.S. national) ❑ Neither citizen nor eligible noncitizen ❑ Eligible noncitizen (Enter your Alien Registration Number in the box to the right.) Your Alien Registration Number Generally, you are an eligible noncitizen if you are: • A permanent U.S. resident with a Permanent Resident Card (I-551); A • A conditional permanent resident with a Conditional Green Card (I-551C); • The holder of an Arrival-Departure Record (I-94) from the Department of Homeland Security showing any of the following designations: “Refugee,” “Asylum Granted,” “Parolee” (I-94 confirms paroled for a minimum of one year and status has not expired), T-Visa holder (T-1, T-2, T-3, etc.) or “Cuban-Haitian Entrant;” or • The holder of a valid certification or eligibility letter from the Department of Health and Human Services showing a designation of “Victim of human trafficking.”

Student Marital Status (check one of the following) ❑ Single ❑ Married or remarried ❑ Separated ❑ Divorced or widowed You will be asked to provide information about your spouse if you are married or remarried.

Selective Service Registration If you are male and 25 or younger, you can use the FAFSA to register with the Selective Service System.

What is the highest school parent 1 completed? ❑ Middle school/Jr. high ❑ College or beyond ❑High school ❑ Other/unknown

What is the highest school parent 2 completed? ❑ Middle school/Jr. high ❑ College or beyond ❑High school ❑ Other/unknown

SECTION 2 - STUDENT DEPENDENCY STATUS If you can check ANY of the following boxes, you will not have to provide parental information. Skip to page 4. If you check NONE of the following boxes, you will be asked to provide parental information. Go to the next page.

❑ I was born before ❑ I am married ❑ I will be working on a master’s or doctorate program (e.g., MA, MBA, January 1, 1995 MD, JD, PhD, EdD, graduate certificate)

❑ I am serving on active duty in ❑ I am a veteran of the U.S. Armed ❑ I now have or will have children for whom I will provide more than half the U.S. Armed Forces Forces of their support between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019

❑ Since I turned age 13, both of ❑ I was in foster care since turning ❑ I have dependents (other than children or my spouse) who live with my parents were deceased age 13 me and I provide more than half of their support

❑ I was a dependent or ward of ❑ I am currently or I was an ❑ I am currently or I was in legal ❑ I am homeless or I am at risk of the court since turning age 13 emancipated minor guardianship being homeless

NOTES:

For Help — 1-800-433-3243 2018-2019 FAFSA ON THE WEB WORKSHEET PAGE 2 SECTION 3 - PARENT INFORMATION Who is considered a parent? “Parent” refers to a biological or adoptive parent or a person determined by the state to be a parent (for example, if the parent is listed on the birth certificate). Grandparents, foster parents, legal guardians, older siblings, and uncles or aunts are not considered parents on this form unless they have legally adopted you. If your legal parents are living and married to each other, answer the questions about both of them. If your legal parents are not married and live together, answer the questions about both of them. In case of divorce or separation, give information about the parent you lived with most in the last 12 months. If you did not live with one parent more than the other, give information about the parent who provided you the most financial support during the last 12 months or during the most recent year you received support. If your divorced or widowed parent has remarried, also provide information about your stepparent.

Providing parent 1 information? You will need: Providing parent 2 information? You will need: Parent 1 (father/mother/stepparent) Social Security Number Parent 2 (father/mother/stepparent) Social Security Number Parent 1 (father/mother/stepparent) name Parent 2 (father/mother/stepparent) name Parent 1 (father/mother/stepparent) date of birth Parent 2 (father/mother/stepparent) date of birth ❑ Check here if parent 1 is a dislocated worker ❑ Check here if parent 2 is a dislocated worker

Did you know? Did your parents file or will they file a 2016 income tax return? If your parents file a federal tax return, they may be able to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. This tool enables your parents to ❑ My parents have already completed a tax return easily, accurately and securely transfer their tax return ❑ My parents will file, but have not yet completed a tax return information into the FAFSA form. ❑ My parents are not going to file an income tax return

What was your parents’ adjusted gross income for 2016? Skip this question if your parents did not file taxes. Adjusted gross income is on IRS Form 1040—line 37; $ 1040A—line 21; or 1040EZ—line 4.

The following questions ask about earnings (wages, salaries, tips, etc.) in 2016. Answer the questions whether or not a tax return was filed. This information may be on the W-2 forms or on the IRS Form 1040—lines 7 + 12 + 18 + Box 14 (Code A) of IRS Schedule K-1 (Form 1065); 1040A—line 7; or 1040EZ—line 1. How much did parent 1 (father/mother/stepparent) earn from working in 2016? $ How much did parent 2 (father/mother/stepparent) earn from working in 2016? $

In 2016 or 2017, did anyone in your parents’ household receive: (Check all that apply.) ❑ Medicaid ❑ Free or Reduced Price School Lunch ❑ Supplemental Security Income (SSI) ❑ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) ❑ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ❑ Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Note: TANF may have a different name in your parents’ state. Call 1-800-433-3243 to find out the name of the state’s program.

Did your parents have any of the following items in 2016? Check all that apply. Once online, you may be asked to report amounts paid or received by your parents. Additional Financial Information Untaxed Income ❑ American Opportunity Tax Credit or Lifetime ❑ Payments to tax-deferred pension and ❑ Housing, food and other living allowances Learning Tax Credit retirement savings plans paid to members of the military, clergy ❑ Child support paid ❑ Child support received and others ❑ Taxable earnings from work-study, assistantships ❑ IRA deductions and payments to self- ❑ Veterans noneducation benefits or fellowships employed SEP, SIMPLE and Keogh ❑ Other untaxed income not reported, such ❑ Taxable college grant and scholarship aid ❑ Tax exempt interest income as workers’ compensation or disability reported to the IRS as income ❑ Untaxed portions of IRA distributions benefits Combat pay or special combat pay ❑ ❑ Untaxed portions of pension distributions ❑ Cooperative education program earnings

Your parents may be asked to provide more information about their assets. Your parents may need to report the net worth of their current businesses and/or investment farms.

NOTES:

FAFSA.GOV 2018-2019 FAFSA ON THE WEB WORKSHEET PAGE 3 SECTION 4 - STUDENT INFORMATION

Did you know? Did you file or will you file a 2016 income tax return? If you file a federal tax return, you may be able to use the IRS Data ❑ I have already completed my tax return Retrieval Tool. This tool enables you to easily, accurately and securely transfer your tax information into the FAFSA form. ❑ I will file, but I have not completed my tax return ❑ I’m not going to file an income tax return

What was your (and spouse’s) adjusted gross income for 2016? Skip this question if you or your spouse did not file taxes. Adjusted gross income is on IRS Form 1040—line 37; $ 1040A—line 21; or 1040EZ—line 4.

The following questions ask about earnings (wages, salaries, tips, etc.) in 2016. Answer the questions whether or not a tax return was filed. This information may be on the W-2 forms or on the IRS Form 1040—lines 7 + 12 +18 + Box 14 (Code A) of IRS Schedule K-1 (Form 1065); 1040A—line 7; or 1040EZ—line 1.

How much did you earn from working in 2016? $ ❑ Check here if you are a dislocated worker How much did your spouse earn from working in 2016? $ ❑ Check here if your spouse is a dislocated worker

In 2016 or 2017, did anyone in your household receive: (Check all that apply.) ❑ Medicaid ❑ Free or Reduced Price School Lunch ❑ Supplemental Security Income (SSI) ❑ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) ❑ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ❑ Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Note: TANF may have a different name in your state. Call 1-800-433-3243 to find out the name of the state’s program.

Did you or your spouse have any of the following items in 2016? Check all that apply. Once online, you may be asked to report amounts paid or received. Additional Financial Information Untaxed Income ❑ American Opportunity Tax Credit or Lifetime ❑ Payments to tax-deferred pension and ❑ Housing, food and other living allowances Learning Tax Credit retirement savings plans paid to members of the military, clergy Child support paid ❑ ❑ Child support received and others ❑ Taxable earnings from work-study, assistantships ❑ Veterans noneducation benefits or fellowships ❑ IRA deductions and payments to self- ❑ Other untaxed income not reported, such Taxable college grant and scholarship aid employed SEP, SIMPLE and Keogh ❑ as workers’ compensation or disability reported to the IRS as income ❑ Tax exempt interest income benefits ❑ Combat pay or special combat pay ❑ Untaxed portions of IRA distributions ❑ Money received or paid on your behalf ❑ Cooperative education program earnings ❑ Untaxed portions of pension distributions

You may be asked to provide more information about your (and your spouse’s) assets. You may need to report the net worth of current businesses and/or investment farms.

NOTES:

Do not mail this Worksheet. Go to fafsa.gov to complete and submit your application. For more information on federal student aid, visit StudentAid.gov. You can also talk with your college’s financial aid office about other types of student aid that may be available.

For Help — 1-800-433-3243 2018-2019 FAFSA ON THE WEB WORKSHEET PAGE 4

2018-19 CSS Profile Student Guide

This guide provides the basic information you need to complete your CSS Profile application at cssprofile.org starting Oct. 1, 2017.

WHAT is the CSS Profile? The Process: The CSS Profile is an online application that collects 1. Sign-in – Use your College Board username and information used by nearly 400 colleges and scholarship password or sign up for a new account. If you created an programs to award non-federal aid. (For federal aid you must complete the FAFSA, available Oct. 1 at fafsa.ed.gov.) Some account for the SAT or to view your PSAT or AP scores, colleges may require the CSS Profile from both you should use the same user name and password for biological/adoptive parents in cases of divorce or separation. your CSS Profile application.

WHEN do I complete the CSS Profile? 2. Complete the Application – As you answer questions, You may complete the CSS Profile as early as Oct. 1, 2017. the system builds an application tailored to your family’s You should submit no later than two weeks before the situation. The application provides online help and edits EARLIEST priority filing date specified by your colleges. to guide you. You do not need to complete the application in one sitting; save your application and return WHO must complete the CSS Profile? to complete it at any time. Check your colleges’ information to determine whether they require the CSS Profile. A list of participating colleges is 3. Submit the Application – The date and time you submit also found on the CSS Profile Homepage. your completed application will be recorded based on Eastern Time and your reports will be sent to the HOW do I complete the CSS Profile? colleges you selected. You submit the CSS Profile at cssprofile.org. Once you sign- in, you will find a list of useful documents, such as your 4. Review Your Dashboard – Once you submit your federal tax returns and other financial information that you’ll application, your dashboard will include your payment need to have at hand to complete the application. Help is receipt and any next steps, such as submitting provided within the application and additional help is available documents to the Institutional Documentation Service by chat, phone, or email by clicking “Contact Us” in the (IDOC). application. You may add a college at any time. Sign in to the CSS WHAT does the CSS Profile cost? Profile and click Add a College or Program on your The fee for the initial application is $25. Additional reports are Dashboard. You will be charged $16 for each college you $16. Payment may be made via credit or debit card. Fee add. Any unused fee waivers will be automatically applied to waivers may be granted to domestic students who are first- your charges. time college applicants and who have used a SAT fee waiver, Questions? Customer Service Representatives are available have an income of $45,000 or less, or are an orphan or ward via email, online chat, and phone. Visit of the court under the age of 24. This waiver covers the collegeboard.org/contact-us#css for more details. application fee and the reporting fees for up to eight colleges.

Visit cssprofile.org. © 2017 The College Board.

This college handbook is a collection of information and resources that have been created and provided by numerous organizations, publications and departments. The Archer High School Counseling Department would like to thank several providers for producing these valuable resources.

The Gwinnett County Public Schools Choice Book

The College Board/ My Big Future

My Majors Magazine

Counselor’s Guide Magazine

The ACT

The Associated Colleges of the Midwest

GA futures

Georgia Student Finance Commission

Federal Student Aid, an Office of the Department of Education