OLMIS

Published Nov-6-2012

How can anyone afford college?

More than half of college students in Oregon receive some sort of financial aid:

Grants and scholarships - these do not have to be repaid. Loans - these must be repaid with interest. Work-study - students get paid for working while in school.

Getting Started

If you are in high school:

• Start with your high school guidance counselor or ASPIRE advisor, if ASPIRE is offered at your school. Go to www.OregonStudentAid.gov and review the tips for getting scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial aid.

If you are getting ready to go to college:

• Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov. It's the required application for both federal financial aid programs and the Oregon Opportunity Grant. Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1, 2013, if you plan to attend college anytime between fall 2013 and summer 2014. Apply for scholarships for the 2013-2014 academic year by filling out the online "OSAC scholarship application" administered by the Oregon Student Access Commission (OSAC) at www.OregonStudentAid.gov. You must submit the application and all Required materials by March 1, 2013. Applications submitted by February 15 qualify for an early bird review and a chance to win a $500 scholarship.
  
  
• OSAC offers one common application for more than 400 scholarship programs that pertain to academic and career choices, specific populations, employers and membership organizations, and the high school from which the student graduated. Search for OSAC scholarships at www.OregonStudentAid.gov, or access the Oregon Career Information System at many schools, libraries, and all Oregon Employment Department offices.
  
  
• Contact financial aid offices at the schools you are thinking of attending. They'll have information about campus-based awards and application deadlines. They'll also require FAFSA data (see above).
  
  
• Attend a College Night in Oregon event (fall 2013) or a College Goal Oregon event (in early 2013) to get help filling out your FAFSA and learn about available funding and scholarship tips. Go to www.CollegeNightinOR.org or www.CollegeGoalOregon.org for information.
  
  
• If possible, attend a local "financial aid night" workshop or college fair.
  
  
• Send your completed applications to the colleges you are interested in.

For More Information Call OSAC at (800) 452-8807 or visit www.OregonStudentAid.gov for links to help you understand the financial aid process as well as information on careers, colleges, and how to fill out scholarship applications.

Source: Oregon Student Access Commission