College Readiness

Here is important information about the ACT (American College Testing Program):

• ACT Overview: The ACT is a standardized test used by many institutions for admissions purposes. For the 2024-2025 period, the cost is $68 for the ACT alone or $93 if you choose to take the ACT with the Writing Test.

• Fee Waivers: If you qualify for free or reduced lunch, your ACT fee can be waived. For a fee waiver, please visit the college career center.

• Significance: The ACT is a key component of the college admission process. Your score can affect your eligibility for academic scholarships and may determine the need for placement in general education courses.

• Registration: Be mindful of registration deadlines, which are typically 3-4 weeks before the test date. You can register for the ACT online or through the college career center.

If you are interested in the SAT or need additional information about the ACT, please contact your college career center.

College planning is the process of preparing for higher education by making informed decisions about which institution best fits your academic, financial, and personal needs. It’s not just about choosing a college; it involves understanding your career goals, financial options, and the type of environment where you’ll thrive. Starting this process early is crucial for a few reasons:

Time to Explore Options: With nearly 4,000 institutions in the U.S., including 2,832 four-year colleges, 1,582 two-year colleges, and 1,050 community colleges, the range of choices can be overwhelming. Starting early gives you time to thoroughly research different schools, programs, and environments. It allows you to explore options in-depth, visit campuses, and attend college fairs or virtual tours to get a sense of what each institution offers.

Application Preparation: Many colleges have specific admissions requirements, which may include standardized test scores, essays, interviews, or portfolios. Preparing these materials takes time, and starting early ensures you meet all deadlines. Additionally, some programs may have competitive entry requirements, making it important to understand and meet those benchmarks well in advance.

Financial Planning: College can be a significant financial investment, so it's important to explore scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options early. Different schools and states may offer financial aid opportunities based on merit, need, or residency. Understanding these options in advance can save you from last-minute stress and help you choose a school that aligns with your budget.

Career Alignment: If you have a clear idea of your career path, you can focus on schools that have strong programs in that field. Whether you’re considering a four-year university, a two-year college for vocational training, or a community college for transfer opportunities, early planning allows you to align your college choice with your long-term career goals.

Reducing Stress: Starting early reduces the pressure of making big decisions quickly. By spreading out your research and planning, you can approach the process in a more relaxed, thoughtful way, ensuring that you make choices that truly reflect your academic and personal priorities.

Overall, college planning is an essential step toward securing a rewarding future, and starting early helps you make the most informed, well-rounded decisions as you embark on your higher education journey.

Not sure where to go? Here are a handful of sites you can explore to find that perfect fit!

• Big Future: Use to research colleges and majors across the U.S. 
• Historically Black Colleges and Universities: A list of historically black colleges and universities  
• Midwest Student Exchange Program: A list of colleges outside of Kansas that offer in-state tuition (1.5x) instead of paying out-of-state tuition. 
• Kansas Independent College Association: A comprehensive list of Kansas private colleges.
• Kansas Board of Regents: A comprehensive list of Kansas public community colleges, technical colleges and universities. 
• Ivy League Schools: Considered the most saught-after higher learning institutions around the country and around the world.
• Tribal Colleges and Universities: A list of tribal colleges and universities known to create environments that foster American Indian culture, languages, and traditions.

Federal student aid is financial assistance provided by the U.S. Department of Education to help cover the costs of higher education, including college, career school, or graduate school expenses. This aid can be used for tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and transportation. There are three main types of federal student aid:

1. Grants: Funds that do not need to be repaid. The most common grant is the Pell Grant, which is awarded based on financial need and is intended for low-income students. Eligibility and award amounts vary based on income, family size, and the cost of attendance.

2. Work-Study: A program that provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for educational expenses.

3. Loans: Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest. There are two main types of federal student loans:

   • Subsidized Loans: These are need-based loans where the federal government pays the interest while you’re in school at least half-time, during the grace period, and during deferment periods.
   • Unsubsidized Loans: These loans are not need-based. Interest accrues while you’re in school, and you are responsible for paying it, even while you’re enrolled.

To be considered for federal student aid, students and their families must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually. This application is required for federal financial aid and often for state and institutional aid as well. The FAFSA becomes available each year starting in December, and changes to the application process may occur. Assistance with the FAFSA is often available from certified professionals and local financial aid offices.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for federal student aid, students generally must:

• Demonstrate financial need (for most programs; visit StudentAid.gov/how-calculated for details).
• Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen.
• Have a valid Social Security number.
• Be registered with Selective Service, if male (registration is required between the ages of 18 and 25; this can be done through the FAFSA).
• Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible degree or certificate program.
• Be enrolled at least half-time (for most programs).
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
• Meet one of the following educational requirements:
  • Have a high school diploma or an equivalent such as a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
  • Complete a home-school education approved under state law.
  • Enroll in an eligible career pathways program.