Why attend College? Level of Education Ave. Yearly Income for People 18yrs. or Older Some High School $16,000 High School Graduate $25,000 Bachelor’s Degree $49,000 Education Earnings (in millions of dollars) Professional Degree $4.4 Doctorate $3.4 Master's Degree $2.5 Bachelor's Degree $2.1 Associate Degree $1.6 High School Diploma $1.2 Less than High School Diploma $1.0 Earnings for full-time, year-round workers by educational attainment for work-life of approximately 40 years. Source: U.S. Census Bureau. )

What should you consider when choosing a college ? Your Academic Program Good Academic Reputation Distinguished Faculty Campus Size and Enrollment

When should I begin planning? Start in the Inquiring about pre-College courses in the 8 th & 9 th Graders: Start and plan on maintaining a list of your activities, awards, community service, and other unique educational experiences throughout high school. 10 th Graders: Inquire about taking the ACT PLAN, ACT Explore, ACT Aspire or practice test for the ACT and the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). These tests are important practice tests which will prepare you for the ACT and the SAT.

Juniors & Seniors Attend College Fairs Consider enrolling in an academic course at a local college, pursuing a summer school program or working as a volunteer Take the ACT or the SAT Complete Applications: Admission & Housing Applications Scholarship Applications FAFSA  Have your high school send your transcript to colleges

Step 1 - Be a Pain! Let everyone know that you're going to college and need their help. 4 ACTIVE Steps to Preparing for College

Steps 2 - Push Yourself! Working a little harder today will make getting into college even easier. 4 ACTIVE Steps to Preparing for College

Step 3 - Find the Right Fit! Find out what kind of school is the best match for you and your career goals. 4 ACTIVE Steps to Preparing for College

Step 4 - Put Your Hands on Some Cash! If you think you can't afford college, think again. There's lots of aid out there. 4 ACTIVE Steps to Preparing for College

College is NOT Free Direct Costs TUITION ROOM & BOARD FEES Indirect Costs BOOKS TRANSPORTATION MISCELLANEOUS

APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID Complete FAFSA Request PIN Submit FAFSA online Previous year income information FAFAS requires 2013 tax information.

FACTS ABOUT FINANCIAL AID Cost of attendance (COA) tuition, books, living expenses MINUS(-) Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Need

Types of Aid Federal Aid Programs are based on financial need. They are the largest single source of financial aid for college. State Aid Programs—Most states support various aid programs (both need- based and merit). Generally, eligibility for state need-based programs follows the federal guidelines.

Types of Aid Grants & Scholarships—Awards based on merit or merit plus need. They don't have to be repaid. Loans—Funds loaned through a lending institution or college. Interest rates vary by program. For federal loans, qualifying students— based on need—will not have to pay interest while in school. Military Programs—helps pay for college. Work-study Programs—Jobs that allow students to earn money toward their education while they are enrolled in school.

APPLY FOR Scholarships & Grants Apply Early Apply Often

Loan Programs PROS vs. Cons. Borrow Responsibly!

Texas B-On-Time (BOT) Loan Program The Texas B-On-Time Loan program is a zero-interest loan.

Texas BOT Loan Program 4-year public and private institutions: $3,850/semester ($7,700/year) 2-year public and private junior colleges: $1,320/semester ($2,640/year) Public technical colleges: $2,200/semester ($4,400/year). Borrow Responsibly

Dallas County Community Colleges Rising Star Program Rising Star provides academic support services and up to $4,000 for tuition and books throughout your education in the DCCCD. Student can attend part-time or full-time Student can earn a degree, certificate or complete core courses and transfer. * Must be in the top 40% of the graduating class or possess at least a “B” average

Thank You for Your Participation! “Education is not a preparation for life; education is life itself.” John Dewey Jarlene DeCay Dean of Student Success