1. The logistics of applying to college
Step-by-step instructions
class of 2018

2. Financial aid & Scholarships
FAFSA (opens October 1st)
CSS Profile
Naviance Scholarship list
Merit aid
Military options
NCAA

3. Free application for federal student aid
Go to and create an account.
Opens October 1st, 2017
Don’t wait to submit your FAFSA
Aid from colleges is limited, and can run out if you wait!
Ask your parents to have last year’s tax information ready.
You will need to provide details as part of the FAFSA.

5. Css profile (collegeBoard )
Some colleges/universities will require you to complete the CSS PROFILE to determine financial aid.
This is in addition to the FAFSA, not replacing it.
Examples in Pennsylvania
Albright, Bryn Mawr, Bucknell, Carnegie Mellon, Dickinson, Drexel, Franklin & Marshall, Gettysburg, Haverford, Lafayette, Lehigh, Muhlenberg, Rosemont, Susquehanna, Swarthmore, UPenn, Ursinus, Villanova
Check the list yourself so you don’t lose out on financial aid.

6. scholarships Naviance Scholarship List (College tab)
Focuses on local scholarships our students regularly receive.
Sort by deadline, and read descriptions to see which are appropriate.
National Scholarship Databases
FastWeb, Cappex, or Unigo
Create an account, and match with targeted scholarships.
Individual Colleges
Many offer Merit Aid opportunities for high achieving students.

7. Naviance scholarship list

8. Fastweb scholarship search

9. merit aid

10. Important fin aid dates
October 1st- FAFSA is available online
October 4th- Financial Aid Night at CB East H.S.
Villanova Director of Financial Assistance
CSS Profile- Deadlines vary by college
Scholarships- Vary, but generally begin scholarship apps after applying to your colleges

11. Military options ROTC Scholarship Post 9/11 GI Bill
Earn your Bachelor’s Degree, then serve in the Military.
Apply towards the end of your Junior year of high school.
Requirements vary by the different branches of the Military.
Post 9/11 GI Bill
Enlist, then pursue your degree.
Pays all in-state tuition & fees after you serve.

12. Ncaa athletes
If you play a sport for a Division 1 or 11 college, you may be eligible for a scholarship.
NCAA Clearinghouse
You must register through this website to qualify.
Sign up now, check requirements.
Guide for College-Bound Athletes
Speak to your coach about accessing “Hudl” game film to create a highlight clip for college coaches.

13. Stay connected Class of 2018 Guidance page on the West website
Bookmark this, and check it often!
Many important presentations will be posted here.
A link can be found when you first login to Naviance.
Sign up for notices from your counselor
Message to the number “81010”
You will then receive phone alerts from your counselor about scholarships, transcript request issues, and important deadlines.