College and Career
College Financial Aid Information
“Financial aid” is the term used to describe all types of aid provided to students to cover the costs of higher education. The most common types are scholarships, grants, work study, and student loans. We encourage students to aim for a financial aid mix with as many scholarships and grants as possible.
In the financial aid process, students and parents work together to complete the FAFSA form (FAFSA=Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form provides colleges and universities with a snapshot of a family's finances and ability to pay for college. Colleges and universities use the information on the FAFSA form to create individualized financial aid packages for students. All college-bound students should complete the FAFSA even if they do not believe they will receive aid; certain types of academic scholarships may be reserved for student who don't otherwise qualify for aid.
The FAFSA form is administered by Federal Student Aid (FSA).They have many useful videos and tools on their website to help families understand the financial aid process.
FAFSA TIPS
- Parents and students create FSA IDs ahead of time and get familiar with the FSA site
- Gather all needed materials ahead of time
- Complete college applications ahead of time and maintain a list of schools the need to receive the completed FAFSA form
- Complete the FAFSA form as soon as possible after it opens on December 1st, 2024
- Make sure to complete the form for the correct year. Many students in the class of 2025 will enter college in the fall of 2025 and should complete the 2025-2026 FAFSA form.
Scholarships
Going Merry
Popular scholarship platform that matches students with many different scholarship opportunities.
Big Future
Students are entered to win scholarships by adding colleges to their schools list and completing other tasks in College Board.
College Research
College Board Search
Search for colleges using filters like location and majors. View in-depth school profiles. Save schools to a college list.
College Scorecard Search
Search for and compare colleges based on graduation rate, average salary after graduation, and annual cost.
College Navigator Search by NCES (National Center for Education Statistics)
This college search tool provides MUCH MORE DETAIL about colleges. I recommend using this once you have narrowed down your search to only a few schools. Parents will find the financial information and calculators especially helpful. This tool will give you an inside look.
UW System Major Search
Find out which colleges in the UW System offer certain majors.
Christian College Consortium
Thirteen Christian liberal arts colleges committed to Christ and scholarship.
Council for Christian Colleges and Universities
One hundred and fifty solidly Christian schools to explore.
Colleges That Change Lives
Liberal arts colleges committed to student growth and transformation.
Career Research
Xello Login
Xello is our college and career readiness software. Search and save careers, explore colleges, learn about different college majors, and save everything you love in one place.
O*NET Interest Profiler
Career assessment provided by the Dept. of Labor that suggests options based on interests and desired level of preparation. Results link to career profile pages with valuable information and details about specific careers.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Information about individual careers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Includes duties, necessary education and training, pay, and outlook.
My Next Move Careers Homepage
Search through career profile pages, browse within an industry, or view suggestions based on interests, job preparation, or "Bright Outlook" careers.