Weekly digest of information and resources for college applications, education success and financial aid.
Follow the included links to find articles to learn more.
First step for students who are seeking college funding for school year 2018-2019:
File your FAFSA.
Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov
CSU and UC Applications are due Nov 30th!
Tips for applying to college as a first-generation student (click link to read more)
- Have a clear definition of a what is first-generation college student, keeping in mind what the school you’re applying to considers a first generation college student
- Fill out any optional questions looking for additional information in addition to any mandatory essays..share how much attending their college would mean, given that you are a first-generation college student.
- Identify yourself as a first-generation college student and inquire about the type of programs and support the school has for first-generation students.
- First-generation college students need more support – seek resources
ANSWER:
A grade point average that’s calculated using a system that assigns a higher point value to grades in more-difficult classes.
QUESTION:
What is “Weighted Grade Point Average (GPA)”
MYTH:
Private schools are out of reach for my family
FACT:
You might have a better chance of receiving aid from a private school.
Private colleges often offer more financial aid to attract students from every income level. Higher college expenses also mean a better chance of demonstrating financial need. Experts recommend deferring cost considerations until late in the college selection process. Your most important consideration is to find a school that meets your academic, career and personal needs.
College Terminology:
Admission Tests vs. Placement Tests
Admission Tests also known as college entrance exams, these are tests designed to measure students’ skills and help colleges evaluate how ready students are for college-level work. The ACT and the College Board’s SAT are two standardized admission tests used in the United States. The word “standardized” means that the test measures the same thing in the same way for everyone who takes it.
Placement Tests measure the academic skills needed for college-level work. They cover reading, writing, math and sometimes other subjects. Placement test results help determine what courses you are ready for and whether you would benefit from remedial classes.
Though nobody ever questioned the fact that after high school I should attend college, how that was going to happen was a problem that seemed impossible to address… the entire process from touring to applications was an unfamiliar challenge. It wasn’t until Future Sacramento reached out that college seemed an attainable goal. We were immediately given access not only to a generous stipend that could be put towards the cost of a university education but, perhaps even more importantly, an experienced group of people who were willing to advocate for me and my education, guiding me through the countless processes and procedures necessary to get admitted to a college. Future Sacramento gave me and my family the tools necessary to open the world of opportunities that become available with a college degree. – Eden
