Preparing for College Toolkit
- Most good-paying jobs will require a college education.
More than 60 percent of the jobs of the future will require at least a two-year college degree…many more will require a four-year degree. - You'll make more money than others without a college education.
College graduates are likely to make $22,000 more per year than those with only a high school education. - You'll learn new skills and broaden your experience in life.
- You'll meet new people.
Colleges attract people from all walks of life and from all corners of the world who you might never have encountered if you didn't go to college. - You'll increase your knowledge and understanding of the world around you.
College is where you'll learn to solve problems and shape your viewpoint to build a stronger society. - College educated people are generally healthier.
Studies show that college graduates are less likely to be obese, they eat a healthier diet and live longer than those without a college degree. - You'll achieve a better lifestyle.
College graduates generally have more job security and are more active in their communities. - You'll be an inspiration to your family and friends.
You can influence your friends and family to better themselves and create a stronger family and community. - You'll have an easier time finding a job.
You are less likely to be unemployed if you have a college degree than if you didn't. - You'll have the opportunity to do something you love.
Source: https://gearup.ny.gov/top-10-reasons-to-get-a-college-education
Some questions to ask yourself
- How much can I afford to pay for school?
- Do I want to stay in my home community or state?
- Can I meet the school’s application requirements?
- Does the school have the courses that interest me?
- Do I want to participate in sports or other activities?
- Does the school have accreditation (so I can use my financial aid)?
- Do I want to live at home, on campus, or somewhere else?
- How long am I planning to spend on working towards my degree?
Source: http://www.nativepartnership.org/site/DocServer/pdf_Tools_For_Success.pdf?docID=6106
Earn College Credits in High School
Early Colleges are partnerships of school districts, charter management organizations, or high schools, and two- or four-year colleges or universities. A type of dual enrollment program, Early Colleges offer students the opportunity to earn an Associate’s degree or up to two years of college credits toward a Bachelor’s degree in high school—at no or low cost to students. Early Colleges also provide supports to student as they plan for their college education, helping them select college courses, transfer to a four-year college, and identify sources of financial aid.
Immediate and Lasting Benefits of Early College High Schools
AIR first studied implementation of Early Colleges and, later, their impact on students. As Early Colleges matured, student outcomes have been consistently positive. For example, AIR research has found:
- In high school, Early College students performed better on state assessments in English language arts and mathematics than their peers in traditional high schools in their local districts, a 2009 study found. Students earned an average of 23 college credits by the time they graduated, and 88 percent had enrolled in college the fall after graduation. In interviews, alumni of Early Colleges “generally felt their schools had effectively prepared them to manage their time and to be successful in rigorous classes,” and “capable of navigating the college system and comfortable becoming involved in campus life.”
- Early College students were significantly more likely to enroll in college and earn a college degree than students in a comparison group with similar characteristics who were not enrolled in Early Colleges, according to a 2014 study. These findings mirror the findings in the latest impact evaluation, which followed student outcomes for 10 years.
- The 2019 study found that, over 4 years, Early Colleges cost about $3,800 more per student than traditional high schools. However, the estimated return on that investment was about $33,709 in increased lifetime earnings for each student.Further, AIR’s research shows that Early Colleges equally benefit all students—regardless of gender, race/ethnicity, or family income—not just economically disadvantaged students or students traditionally underrepresented in higher education.
Source: Laskowski, A. (2019). Parent’s survival guide: Put down the phone, leave them alone. Boston University. https://www.air.org/project/evaluating-impact-early-college-high-schools
Academic summer programs
Below is a list of summer programs that students can apply to and attend if accepted. These programs are great opportunities to network with professionals, academics and other students, socialize with students from across the region, see new places, gain knowledge and experience regarding college and careers, and even get college and high school credits (depending on program and courses taken). Click on the following links or use one of the search engines at the end of this page to learn about additional programs. Remember, each program has different eligibility requirements, costs, program dates, application deadlines and capacities so check them out early enough to ensure you have adequate time to apply.
Middle School
- Grand Canyon In Focus (sponsored by Udall Foundation and Grand Canyon National Park Service) (must apply through NAU Talent Search Program; Dates TBD for Summer 2016)
- Indian Youth of America
High School Freshmen – Juniors
- Nizhoní Academy at NAU
- University of California – Irvine: American Indian Summer Institute
- College Horizons (Native Americans, Pacific Islanders and Alaskan Natives)
- The Joaquin Bustoz Math-Science Honors Program at ASU
- Phillips Exeter Academy
- University of Arizona Med-Start in Phoenix
- University of Arizona Med-Start in Tucson
- Crow Canyon Archaeological Center High School Camp (Must be 14 years of age & Freshmen through Graduated Seniors may apply)
- Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (costs apply but scholarships may be available)
- National Native American youth Initiative (NNAYI): (Open to sophomores, juniors & seniors)
- Catalyst Academy at Cornell University: (Open to rising sophomores, juniors & seniors)
High School Juniors:
- University of Phoenix Med-Start in Phoenix
- E.D.A (Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America)
- University of Arizona Honors Summer Academy (must have completed junior year and costs apply)
- Summer Multicultural Engineering Program-Colorado School of Mines (must be a rising junior or senior)
- Summer Design Primer at Arizona State University (ASU): (Open to rising seniors)
- Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES): (Must be a rising senior & apply during junior year)
Post-High School summer programs:
- STAR (Successful Transition and Academic Readiness) at NAU
- Graduate College Horizons
- The Joaquin Bustoz Math-Science Honors Program (Seniors may apply IF accepted to ASU & are attending in the Fall)
- University of Arizona New Start Summer Program (Must be a first-time college freshmen and/or have been admitted to U of A)
- University of Arizona Honors Summer Academy (must have completed senior year and costs apply)
- Challenge – Colorado School of Mines (Must be accepted into CSM as a Freshman)
- Summer Design Primer at ASU: (Must be accepted and will be attending ASU in the Fall)
Search engines for additional programs
Multi-Opportunities & Locations/Misc
Chandler
City of Chandler: Police, Fire, Library, Town
Hamilton High School Tutoring
Gilbert
Town of Gilbert: Police, Fire, Library, Town
Mesa
Phoenix
Various Locations
Boys & Girls Club of the East Valley
PETS & ANIMALS
Gilbert
Friends for Life Animal Rescue
Phoenix
AZ Animal Welfare Leave & SPCA
Scottsdale
Various Locations
Maricopa Animal Care and Control
FOOD BANKS/CARE CENTERS/HEALTHCARE
Chandler
Chandler Regional Medical Center-Dignity
Gilbert
Gilbert Mercy Medical Center-Dignity
Mesa
Cardon Children's Medical Center-Banner
Various Locations
HOMELESS SHELTERS
Chandler
Mesa
Various Locations
LOCAL CHAPTER/MEMBERSHIP
Arizona
Chandler
Gilbert
MUSEUMS
Mesa
Arizona Museum of National History
Phoenix
Please note that many colleges and universities have converted to a “test optional” admissions process. The admissions offices make selection decisions without relying on the results from the ACT/SAT. De-emphasizing standardized test scores underscores the fact that it doesn’t always measure academic merit.
The Preliminary SAT, also known as the PSAT/NMSQT® (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), is a practice version of the SAT exam. You can only take the PSAT once per year, and many students take the test in both 10th and 11th grade. If you earn a high score on the PSAT your junior year, you could qualify to receive a National Merit Scholarship—$180 million dollars in merit scholarships are awarded to students each year. The PSAT is 2 hours and 45 minutes long and tests your skills in reading, writing, and math. Unlike the SAT, the highest score possible on the PSAT is 1520.
SAT Basics
The SAT is a standardized test that measures a student's skills in three core areas: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing. Students in grades 11 and 12 take the SAT so that they can submit their scores to colleges as part of the college application process.
SAT Format
The SAT is composed of three main sections — Math, Evidence-Based Reading, and Writing. There is an optional 50-minute essay*, and total testing time with the essay is 3 hours and 50 minutes. The breakdown of each remaining section can be found in the table below.
The ACT contains four multiple-choice tests—English, mathematics, reading, and science—and an optional writing test. These tests are designed to measure skills that are most important for success in postsecondary education and that are acquired in secondary education. The score range for each of the four multiple-choice tests is 1–36. The Composite score is the average of the four test scores rounded to the nearest whole number.
Visit Applerouth.com to download the full pdf.
Standardized tests remain an important part of the college admissions process at many schools. Landing a high score on the SAT and ACT could help your chances of getting into your dream school. That said, you don't necessarily have to blow your budget on prep books and tutors to get a great score. You can find several helpful — and totally free — resources online to help you study for the exam. Test prep and tutoring organizations offer many different types of tools as well, such as free SAT and ACT practice tests and online courses.
Resources:
SAT Prep https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/free-sat-prep-resources/
ACT Prep https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/free-act-prep-resources/
What Is Financial Aid?
College financial aid helps students and their families by covering higher education expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, books and other coursework supplies, and transportation.
There are several types of financial aid:
- Grants.
- Scholarships.
- Federal or private loans.
- Work-study and other programs.
To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, work-study, and loans, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free and easier than ever, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college or career school.
In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for state and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.
College grants are a form of financial aid that is awarded to students, to help pay for college. Typically, college grants are offered to students based on their financial need, and do not need to be paid back.
If you are in or applying to college, and researching your financial aid options, it is important to know the types of college grants available to you. Today, you can earn college grants from the government (federal grants), from your college (college-based grants), or even from outside institutions (private grants). Here, we break down the different types of college grants available to undergraduate students (Source: https://www.goodwin.edu/enews/types-of-college-grants/)
- Federal Grants
- Pell Grants - For the 2021-2022 school year, the maximum award is $6,495. Students are eligible to receive the Pell Grant for up to 12 semesters, or roughly six years.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) - Depending on your level of need, you may be awarded between $100 and $4,000 per year. While this is a type of federal grant, the FSEOG is administered by colleges, and only some schools participate in this offering.
- Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants - The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants are eligible to students who are considering becoming teachers in low-income and high-need areas. To qualify, your program of study must participate in the TEACH Grant Program, and you must meet a certain academic standard (such as a 3.25 cumulative GPA) while enrolled
- State Grants - Arizona
- Arizona Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (AzLEAP) - The Arizona Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (AzLEAP) establishes a state and institutional partnership to provide student financial assistance in the form of need-based grants to low-income, undergraduate, Arizona resident students who have demonstrated substantial financial need, enabling students to attend postsecondary institutions in the State of Arizona. The grant is awarded by each participating institution. The maximum AzLEAP award for the academic year is $2,500 however; the average amount awarded is $1,000 for the academic year.
- Arizona Teacher Student Loan Program - The Arizona Teacher Student Loan Program is a need-based forgivable loan designed to financially support and to encourage college students who are Arizona residents to enter into the teaching profession and teach in a public school in Arizona. The maximum forgivable loan is $7,000 per academic year for up to three years excluding all grants, scholarships and other tuition benefits (ex: tribal and military). Funds can be applied toward tuition, instructional materials and mandatory fees as documented in the student’s Cost of Attendance (COA) at their institution.
If you apply for financial aid, your school will likely include student loans as part of your financial aid package. It’s important to understand what types of loans you are offered. Generally, there are two types of student loans—federal and private.
- Federal student loans and federal parent loans: These loans are funded by the federal government.
- Private student loans: These loans are nonfederal loans, made by a lendersuch as a bank, credit union, state agency, or a school.
Source: https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/loans/federal-vs-private
Identifying scholarships can be a daunting task. Although there are a number of benefits to obtaining scholarships, the number one benefit is financial savings. Scholarships can help you to avoid taking out a number of costly loans. There are scholarships available for every major, academic history, ethnicity, and socioeconomic level. Here is a list of the top sites for finding scholarships:
1. Fastweb.com
Fastweb hosts more than 1.5 million scholarships that provide more than $3.4 billion in funding. Once you create a profile, the site’s search feature will help you find the matches that best fit your needs. Your personal profile is how the site helps you find pretty much exactly what you’re looking for.
You can then also see all the scholarships you’ve applied for and those you may want to apply for in the future. They also have “contests” that you can enter monthly or weekly to win money!
2. CollegeBoard.org
While the College Board is known for its college-readiness tests, it also has an arm that focuses on scholarships. Big Future hosts scholarships, as well as other financial aid and internship information from more than 2,200 programs — totaling nearly $6 billion. In order to get the most accurate search results, it’s critical to fill out as many details as you can in the profile that’s used for searching.
3. Niche.com
Formerly known as College Prowler, Niche is a great tool that can help you find colleges AND money. It’s organized into categories that make it pretty easy to find what you’re looking for — allowing users to search by interest, career, major and other areas.
Niche also has some occasional contests to enter.
Scholarships.com hosts one of the largest scholarship databases out there and it’s updated on a daily basis. According to the site, “With more than 3.7 million scholarship and grant opportunities worth more than $19 billion, just about everyone is bound to find something.”
It’s easy to browse by category, but the best way to take advantage of what the site has to offer is to create a personal profile, which will allow you to find the most exhaustive lists of opportunities available to you.
Moolahspot isn’t as robust as some of the other scholarship databases but in the search for a college scholarship, it’s another option to help you find extra money.
The simple search engine contains more than 3.2 million scholarship and grant opportunities for students of all ages. It includes both need-based and merit-based opportunities, which means nearly anyone can find some extra help here.
6. SallieMae
SallieMae is a well-known education and student loan provider. The site’s College Planning page has a scholarship portal where you can search based on your field of study, hobbies and other parameters. Create a personal profile in order to get the most accurate matches that fit your needs.
Scholarship Monkey allows you to search for scholarships and grants a few different ways. You can search by keyword, browse scholarship lists (various categories/topics) and see lists of the latest and featured scholarships. This site also allows you to create a personal profile for more accurate results.
8. Cappex
Cappex hosts a database of more than $11 billion in scholarship opportunities. Once you create a personal profile, you can search for opportunities that directly match your strengths and skills. Plus, Cappex has a tool that will calculate your odds of getting into a certain college before you even apply.
9. Chegg
Chegg is widely known for its online textbook store that allows students to either rent or buy textbooks for cheap. But Chegg is also a great resource for finding scholarships — more than 25,000 of them.
o search for available scholarships, click on the menu stack at the top right of the homepage and select the “scholarships” in the drop-down menu. Once you create a personal profile, you can search for available opportunities that match your criteria. Chegg also has a “top scholarship picks this week” category that highlights some options you may have missed.
10. Unigo
Unigo hosts millions of available scholarships and makes it easy to search by type, including athletic scholarships, college-specific scholarships, company-based scholarships, minority scholarships, major-specific scholarships, state-specific scholarships and more. You can search by category or create a personal profile to get more specific results that match your needs. Unigo also offers scholarship contests and sweepstakes.
11. Peterson’s
Peterson’s hosts $10 billion in scholarship opportunities and provides information to help you in your search. Once you fill out a short survey, you can filter your search results so they’re tailored to your specific needs.
The site also allows users to search by a variety of different topics, college types and personal details — in order to give you the best results.
12. U.S. Labor Department’s Free Search Tool
According to the official Student Aid website, this free tool is a great resource for students to search more than 8,000 scholarships, grants and other various types of financial aid award opportunities.
The CareerOneStop tool allows you to:
- Look through the site’s entire inventory of scholarships, arranged in order of closest deadline
- Narrow your list with a “search by keyword” option: Just enter a keyword about the type of award you’re looking for
- Use the filters to see opportunities for only certain types of awards, locations, level of study, and more
More Tips for Finding a College Scholarship
The Department of Education recommends using the following free resources to find more information about scholarships and other financial aid opportunities:
- The financial aid office at a college or career school
- A high school or TRIO counselor
- Federal agencies
- Your state grant agency
- Your library’s reference section
- Foundations, religious or community organizations, local businesses, or civic groups
- Organizations (including professional associations) related to your field of interest
- Ethnicity-based organizations
- Your employer or your parents’ employers
Source: https://clark.com/education/best-websites-resources-to-find-college/
If you are the first person in your family heading to college, you may be eligible for first-generation scholarship opportunities. These scholarships are designed to make furthering their education more affordable for first-in-family college students.
- Choose Your Future Scholarship Fund
- Cynthia E. Morgan Memorial Scholarship
- Farash Foundation First in Family Scholarship
- FirstGen Fellows
- Florida FGMG
- Fontana Transport Inc. Scholars Program
- I’m First! Scholarship
- ISFA First Generation College Student Program
- Sallie Mae and Hispanic College Fund First in My Family Scholarship
- Smith Scholarship Foundation
- StudySoup First in Family Scholarship
- TIP Grants
- TELACU Education Foundation College Success Program
- TMCF Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship
- TMCF Walmart Foundation First Generation Scholarship
- UNCF Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship
- VAMOS Scholarships
Fund your future with scholarships across all healthcare disciplines and for students of all levels and hear what inspired our EduMed scholarship winners to pursue a medical education.
Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP)
The Army, Navy, and Air Force offer a service scholarship to students who attend medical and dental school programs. If accepted, students receive full coverage of all tuition/fee charges as well as reimbursement of health insurance costs and other related school expenses. A monthly living stipend, which is currently around $2,000 per month, is also provided. Upon completion of school, the dentists or physicians “repay” the scholarship by working one year in the branch of service they were accepted into for each year that they received the scholarship. Minimum service obligations may apply.
NHSC Scholarship Program Overview
The National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program (NHSC SP) awards scholarships to students pursuing eligible primary care health professions training.
In return, scholars commit to provide primary care health services in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).
Nurse Corps Scholarship Program (Nurse Corps SP)
Sponsored by the Health Resources and Services Administration, this program provides scholarships for nursing students who agree to work in eligible healthcare facilities with a shortage of nurses.
Indian Health Service Pre-Graduate Scholarship Program – Provides scholarships for American Indian and Alaska Native students to enroll in courses leading to a bachelor's degree in pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-podiatry, and other subjects needed by the Indian health programs.
Indian Health Service Preparatory Scholarship – Provides scholarships for American Indian and Alaska Native students who are enrolled in undergraduate or preparatory courses in preparation for entry to health profession schools.
Indian Health Service Health Professions Scholarship Program – Provides scholarships for American Indian and Alaska Native students enrolled in a wide range of health professions degree programs.
Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program– Provides scholarships for Native Hawaiians enrolled as healthcare professions students in any state or territory, and who agree to work for at least 2 years at an eligible service setting in Hawaii after graduation.
Looking for state-specific opportunities?
Rural health professions scholarships are offered in many states. Follow these steps to search RHIhub:
- Visit RHIhub's scholarships funding by type page
- Choose narrow by geography
- Choose the appropriate state and click OK
- If needed, you can narrow down even more by choosing narrow by topic
- Then choose the appropriate topic, such as behavioral health workforce or nurses, and click OK
Source: https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/scholarships-loans-loan-repayment/healthcare-students
NHSC Loan Repayment Program
Licensed primary care clinicians in eligible disciplines can receive loan repayment assistance through the NHSC Loan Repayment Program (NHSC LRP).
In exchange for loan repayment, you must serve at least two years of service at an NHSC-approved site in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA).
The California State Loan Repayment Program
SLRP increases the number of primary care physicians, dentists, dental hygienists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, pharmacists, and mental/behavioral health providers practicing in federally designated California Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA).
Exploring loan forgiveness programs
Even if you take out a high number of loans to pay for medical school, your overall debt burden might be low if you participate in a service program once you graduate. Due to the exceptional need for primary care physicians, loan forgiveness programs in these fields are more widely available than for other specialties.
Loan forgiveness and/or repayment programs are sponsored by national, state, and local governments, as well as some private organizations. Typically, after completing a residency, physicians who enter these programs are recruited to practice in designated health professional shortage areas (HPSAs). Benefits vary, but on average, participants provide service for two to four years (depending on the number of years they received support) in exchange for living stipends and repayment of educational loans.
National Loan Forgiveness Programs
The programs and resources listed here are a sample of available loan forgiveness programs. Contact the financial aid office at your school or your family medicine department for more information.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) – The AAMC provides a directory of state loan repayment programs with service commitments. The programs listed are only a sampling of those available. See your financial aid advisor for more information.
Government Loan Forgiveness Programs
Indian Health Service (IHS) Loan Repayment Program – The IHS Loan Repayment Program awards up to $40,000 for repayment of student loans in exchange for a two-year commitment to practice in health facilities serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities – Participants are offered loan repayment to develop research programs that reflect an understanding of the variety of issues and problems associated with disparities in health status. Eligible applicants
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program – The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on an individual's Direct Loans after he or she has made 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a government or not-for-profit organization. If you plan to enter this program, be sure that you have accurately researched requirements and eligibility for PSLF. There are strict guidelines regarding which payments qualify for forgiveness, and proper documentation is essential.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration Primary Care Loans – Primary care loan programs provide long-term, low-interest loans to full-time, financial-needs students to pursue a degree in allopathic or osteopathic medicine. Students must enter and complete residency training in primary care within four years after graduation, and practice in primary care for the life of the loan. See the AAMC directory of state loan repayment programs that have active programs.
The college application process can seem intimidating, especially if students don't have parents or siblings who have already been through it and can offer advice.
Since there are so many steps, such as writing an essay and obtaining letters of recommendation, experts say a good way for students to get started is to create a to-do list during their junior year of high school.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/college-application-process
Requirements for Applying to Community Colleges
- Arizona Western - https://www.azwestern.edu/enrollment/admissions
- Central Arizona College - https://centralaz.edu/find-your-path/first-time-college-student/
- Cochise College - https://www.cochise.edu/admissions
- Coconino Community College - https://www.coconino.edu/new-student
- Eastern Arizona College - https://www.eac.edu/admissions/portal/
- Maricopa Community Colleges - https://www.maricopa.edu/future-students/admissions-records-registration
- Mohave Community College - https://www.mohave.edu/admission-to-mcc/
- Northland Pioneer College - https://www.npc.edu/records-registration-admissions-office
- Pima Community College - https://www.pima.edu/admission/index
- Yavapai College - yc.edu/v6/admissions/why-yc.html
Career colleges provide training within a wide range of vocational fields, providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to earn entry-level employment within a particular business type or industry.
A career college education may include medical and administrative training for those seeking an entry-level career in healthcare.
Private Colleges in Arizona
Programs offered: Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Medical Insurance Billing and Coding
Programs offered: Radiography, B.S. in Healthcare Administration, B.S. in Nursing (RN to BSN), B.S. Physical Therapy Assistant, and B.S. Radiologic Sciences.
Programs offered: Dental Assistant, Massage Therapist, Medical Assistant with Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technician, Healthcare Administration
Programs offered: Practical Nursing, Bachelors of Science – Nursing, Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy, Medical Lab Technician, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapy Assistant, and Surgical Technology
High school seniors have multiple deadlines to choose from when applying to colleges. First are early decision deadlines, usually in November. Students who apply via early decision, or ED, will hear back from a college sooner than their peers who turn in applications later. ED admissions decisions often come out by December.
However, students should be aware that ED acceptances are binding, meaning an applicant must enroll if offered admission. Some schools also have a second early decision deadline, ED II, which is also binding. The difference is in the timelines. ED II deadlines are usually in January; ED II admissions decisions often come out in February. Early action is another type of application deadline that tends to be in November or December.
Students can also choose to apply by a school's regular decision deadline, which can be as early as Nov. 30 at certain colleges but is typically Jan. 1. Students who apply regular decision generally hear back from schools in mid-to-late March or early April.
One other admissions policy to be aware of is rolling admissions. Schools with rolling admissions evaluate applications as they receive them and release admissions decisions on an ongoing basis. These schools may have a priority filing date, but they generally don't have a hard cutoff date for applications. The institutions continue accepting them until all spots in the incoming class are filled.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/college-application-process
Although the cost of applying to colleges might quickly pile up, there is good news for kids. During high school, every income-eligible student who takes the SAT with a price waiver or as a component of a district or state program may select from more than 2,000 participating institutions and submit a free application. Also, depending on your grade point average, there are many colleges and universities that offer an application waiver.
Low-income 11th and 12th grade students in the United States or U.S. territories are eligible for SAT fee exemptions.
You’re eligible if one or more of these descriptions apply to you:
- You’re enrolled in or eligible to participate in the federal National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
- Your family's annual income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service.
- You're enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families, for example, TRIO programs like Upward Bound.
- Your family receives public assistance.
- You’re homeless or live in federally subsidized public housing or a foster home.
- You’re a ward of the state or an orphan.
Sources: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration/fee-waivers/fee-waiver-eligibility
The Common Application is a single online college application form used by over 900 colleges and universities. Instead of filling out the same general information—like your address, GPA, and extracurriculars— a dozen times, you only have to do it once. The Common App dashboard also helps you track necessary application documents (like your letters of recommendation) and important deadlines.
You’ll submit one essay through the Common Application for all your schools. Some colleges may ask you to also answer a few supplemental questions. Check out previous Common App essay prompts now so you can start strategizing about which essay to write.
When does the Common App open?
Get ready for application season! The Common App goes live every year on August 1.
When is the Common App due?
Your application deadline depends on whether you are applying early decision (typically November 1) or regular decision (typically January 1). Deadlines also vary by school, so be sure to check dates for every college you are applying to. You can find application deadlines (plus tons of school information) in our online college profiles.
What does the Common App cost?
The platform itself is free to use, but every college charges their own application processing fee (usually $30 to $75 for U.S. applicants and more for international applicants). You can apply for a fee waiver if you need one.
Source : https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/common-application
It sounds like a chore, and it is. It's a unique chance that can affect decision-making. High school grades and test scores matter most to admissions committees. Too many qualified individuals with identical scores and marks apply to prestigious universities. So they use your essay, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities to figure out what makes you unique.
Your history, passions, and personality are unique. Tell your story! (or at least part of it). Personal, insightful essays are the finest method to communicate your tale. Being honest and sincere will highlight your qualities.
Admissions officers see many forgettable essays. Students often strive to sound sophisticated rather than natural. Others write about a topic they don't like to impress admissions authorities.
You don't need a business or Appalachian Trail experience. Colleges want thoughtful, engaged first-year students.
COLLEGE APPLICATION FAQs
- When should I start ?
The summer before your senior year is the best time to start. Most students do the majority of their application work in the fall of their senior year. See a college application timeline for seniors.
- How do I begin?
Find out what goes into an application and begin collecting the materials you need. Create a folder for each college you are applying to. At the front of each folder, put a checklist of what you’ll need for the application and when it’s due.
- How many colleges should I apply to?
To increase your chances of getting in to a selective school—and to account for colleges you may not have considered before—we recommend a balanced list. A balanced list includes at least 3 reach colleges, 2 matches, and 1 safety school. They should all be colleges you’d be happy to attend.
- What are reach, match, and safety schools?
Think about narrowing your colleges into three categories:- Reaches: Your SAT or ACT® score is lower than the average score range of last year’s freshman class.
- Matches: Your SAT or ACT score is solidly in the same score range as last year’s freshman class.
- Safeties: Your SAT or ACT score is higher than the average score range of last year’s freshman class.
- Should I apply early?
It depends. If you are sure about which college you want to attend, early decision or early action might be the best choice for you. If you’re not sure, keep in mind that some early application plans require you to commit early. You may want to keep your options open.
- Should I use an online or a paper application?
Check with the college to see which is preferred. Most colleges prefer online applications because they are easier to review and process—some even offer a discount in the application fee if you apply online. Applying online can also be more convenient for you—it’s easier to enter information and correct mistakes. Whichever method you choose, be sure to tell your school counselor where you have applied so your school transcript can be sent to the right colleges.
- Should I send additional material?
It’s best if you can express everything about your qualifications and qualities in the materials requested. Colleges spend a great deal of time creating their applications to make sure they get all the information they need about each applicant. If you feel it’s absolutely necessary to send additional material, talk to your counselor about it.Some arts programs may require portfolios or videos of performances. Check with the college to find out the best way to submit examples of your work.
- Is it OK to use the same material on different applications?
Definitely. There’s no need to write a brand-new essay or personal statement for each application. Instead, devote your time to producing a great version of basic application parts.
- Should I apply to colleges if my admission-test scores or grades are below their published ranges?
Yes. The admission scores and grades that colleges show on their websites are averages or ranges—not cutoffs. There are students at every college who scored lower (and higher) than the numbers shown.Remember that colleges consider many factors to get a more complete picture of you. For example, they look at the types of classes you take, your activities, recommendation letters, your essay and your overall character. Colleges are looking for all kinds of students with different talents, abilities and backgrounds. Admission test scores and grades are just two parts of that complete picture.
- Should I even bother applying to colleges I don’t think I can afford?
Absolutely. Remember that after financial aid packages are determined, most students will pay far less than the "sticker price" listed on the college website. You don’t know if you can afford a college until after you apply and find out how much aid that college will offer you (if you’re accepted). Fill out the FAFSA® as early as possible after Jan. 1 to qualify for the most aid.Even if the aid package the college offers is not enough, you have options. Many colleges are willing to work with students they have chosen for admission to ensure that those students can afford to attend.
Submitting your application within the deadline is the single most important part of the admissions process. Taking the time to put together an outstanding application, complete with a brilliant personal essay and impressive recommendation letters is futile if you do not send in your application on time. Very few colleges if any will even bother to look at any applications that come in after the deadlines.
- Regular Decision
- This is the most common type of deadline that applies to most applications. Regular decision college application deadlines are typically around the beginning of January. Colleges send the acceptance letters sometime in March. You have until the end of April to accept (May 1st is known as College Decision Day).
- When applying through regular decision there is no limit to the number of schools you can apply to. If more than one college accepts you, you can choose which one you want to go to. You are under no obligation to enroll in any one particular college.
- Early Decision Deadlines
- Early decision deadlines allow students to apply early. The school reviews these applications early and students also receive an early response from the college. This is a great option for applicants who have their heart set on one particular college.
- However, if a college is not first on your list or if you have any hesitation whatsoever, it is not advisable to apply as an early decision. When you apply through an early decision deadline and a college accepts you, you cannotbreak your contract. The college contractually obligates you to attend. If you decide to back out because you’ve changed your mind, most colleges will charge you a steep fine, which could be as much as a full year’s tuition.
- The deadlines for early decision are usually somewhere between the 1stand 15th of November.
- Early Action Deadlines
- Early action deadlines also allow you to send in your college application early but unlike early decision deadlines, it is not binding. You may apply to multiple colleges under early application. Thus, expect an early response from all colleges that you apply to.
- There are a couple of differences between early decision and early action.
- Firstly, with early action, you are not obliged to attend any one particular college. You can apply to multiple colleges and choose any one from among those that have accepted you.
- Secondly, you do not have to pay any deposit while sending in your application. You only pay the deposit at the same time as the regular decision applicants.
- Early action deadlines are usually set at the same time as early decision deadlines, which is generally between the 1stand 15th of November
- Rolling Admission Deadlines
- With rolling admissions, the deadline is the same as the regular decision deadline. The only difference is that colleges that offer rolling admissions do not wait till after the deadline to send out acceptance letters. They start evaluating the applications as they come in and send out letters as soon as they’ve made a decision.
- When applying to a college that has a rolling admissions system, it is always a good idea to apply as early as possible.
Many colleges encourage you to interview with an admissions representative or alumnus as part of the college application process, either on campus or in your hometown. Admissions officers will consider the interview when evaluating your application (although they'll be much more interested in your grades, test scores, and college essays). A few schools require interviews or have a specific process for them.
In most cases, the interview will not make or break you, but if you do arrange an interview, take it seriously. It’s a chance to show off the unique personality traits you can bring to campus, and build a personal relationship with the admissions gatekeepers. Our college interview tips will help you get prepped for the big day.
Top Interview Questions
Question 1: Tell Me About Yourself
This isn't even actually a question, but it's something you might be asked to do in an interview. Because it's so general, you might have trouble figuring out where to begin.
Why they're asking this: Colleges are asking you to do this because they really do want to know more about you. That's one of the primary purposes of the interview, after all!
What they're looking for: You need to paint a unique portrait of who you are to separate yourself from other applicants. Avoid clichés or descriptions that would be too common. For example, don't just say you're hardworking—explain what has driven you to become as diligent as you are and why you feel it is important.
How to prepare: Rehearse answering this question. Try talking about your passions, hobbies, and interests. You can discuss what inspires you or what your friends like about you. Be specific. Again, you want to make yourself memorable.
Question 2: Why Are You Interested In This College?
Why they're asking this: This is an important question and one you should definitely prepare for, since colleges want to see that you're taking the application process seriously and have a legitimate interest in attending the school.
What they're looking for: Talk about your interest in a major or academic program, the cultural values of the school, or extracurricular activities that drew you to the college. Again, be thorough and specific. Don't talk about prestige or rankings, and don't say you just want to go there because it's close to home; none of this shows genuine interest in this specific college!
How to prepare: To answer this question well, you'll need to conduct extensive college research before the interview. You should be able to cite specifics when answering this question. Follow the same advice as if you were writing the answer to this question for your application essay.
Question 3: Why Do You Want to Major in _____?
If you've indicated that you want to major in a certain subject, you might be asked why you're interested in that particular field.
Why they're asking this: Colleges are interested in your academic goals and want to see that you're academically inclined.
What they're looking for: Talk about why a certain subject inspires you or why you're passionate about it. Don't say that you're pursuing a certain major to make a lot of money or have job security. That doesn't demonstrate genuine academic interest; it just makes you seem shallow.
How to prepare: Think deeply about why you want to pursue a specific major. Why do you find it fascinating? What experiences provoked your interest in the subject? How will the major enable you to reach your future professional goals?
Question 4: What Are Your Academic Strengths?
Why they're asking this: In an effort to get to know you as a student, colleges are interested in getting your perspective on where you excel academically.
What they're looking for: Don't make this answer too short. Don't just say, "I'm good at science." When discussing your academic strengths, explain how you've capitalized on your strengths. If you're an excellent writer, for example, how have you used your writing skills to excel in school? How do you plan on continuing to use your strengths?
How to prepare: Make sure you know your academic strengths. You should be able to explain how you recognized your strengths, how you're currently using them, and how you plan to use them in the future.
Question 5: What Are Your Academic Weaknesses? How Have You Addressed Them?
Why they're asking this: Colleges want to admit good students, but they're aware everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Colleges want to see that you have the persistence and work ethic to succeed despite your challenges.
What they're looking for: Schools want students who can demonstrate their ability to confront and overcome challenges. Try revealing strategies or specific approaches you've taken to improve your academic weaknesses. You could also tell a specific story about how you managed to do well in a subject that was especially difficult for you.
How to prepare: Be aware of your academic weaknesses and how you've addressed them. It's not good to say that you don't have any weaknesses. That's not very believable, and you'll come off as arrogant.
Question 6: What Do You Plan to Contribute to This School?
Why they're asking this: Colleges want to admit students who will make positive contributions to campus and academic life. Essentially, they're looking for students who will make the school better.
What they're looking for: In short, specifics. Don't limit your answer to vague positive traits. Don't just say you'll contribute a good work ethic and a regard for others. Is there specific research you wish to pursue? Do you want to have a leadership position in an extracurricular activity? Are there specific community service projects you want to do? How will your presence on campus and in the classroom make a difference?
How to prepare: Know the specific contributions you want to make to the school. Identify your college goals as well as the activities you want to pursue while you're in college.
Question 7: What Do You Expect to Be Doing 10 Years From Now?
Why they're asking this: Just to set the record straight, you don't need to have your entire future figured out. Colleges understand that you probably won't have everything decided and your plans are likely to change. What they do want is students with direction.
What they're looking for: Colleges want students who are motivated to achieve their goals. The bad, general answer is to only say you expect to have a fulfilling career and be making a positive impact on the world. What are some specific activities you'd like to do? How do you plan on impacting the world? You don't have to limit your plans to professional goals. Do you want to take your mom on a vacation? Or have weekly gatherings with your best friends from high school?
How to prepare: You can write down some detailed notes answering this question. Paint a picture of the life you want to have in 10 years. That picture should reveal your uniqueness.
Question 8: What Would You Change About Your High School?
Why they're asking this: With this question, colleges are looking for your ability to identify problems and get a better understanding of what you're looking for in a school. By learning what you'd change, they get a chance to learn more about what matters to you.
What they're looking for: Colleges want a thoughtful response. Be specific and respectful. Don't say, "I'd get better teachers." Say that you'd allocate more resources to the music department so that more students can have the opportunity to learn how to play new instruments. Discuss how learning an instrument helped you, and describe the current state of the music department. Try to make it clear that you want to improve your school to benefit the personal and academic growth of all of its students.
How to prepare: Think about the strengths and weaknesses of your high school. What are some specific problems it has? What are the consequences of those problems? What steps would you take to make improvements?
Question 9: Whom Do You Most Admire?
Why they're asking this: From this question, colleges can get a sense of your values. If the person you most admire is Justin Bieber, for example, colleges might wonder about your priorities.
What they're looking for: Don't limit your answer just to naming the person. Why do you admire that person? For instance, many people say that the person they most admire is a parent. But what specifically has that parent done that you admire so much? In short, don't forget the details.
How to prepare: Think deeply about your response to this question. If the person you admire is somebody you know, practice by giving your answer to that person. You'll know you've answered the question well if you're rewarded with a hug or even a few tears from your audience.
Question 10: What Is Your Favorite Book?
Why they're asking this: This question is designed to help schools learn more about your interests. Colleges also probably want to make sure that you actually read books.
What they're looking for: Don't limit your answer to the name of a book; think about why you like the book so much. How did it inspire you? Did a particular character resonate with you? Did you learn something from this book that influenced your opinions or behavior? Did this book help shape your perspective or values?
How to prepare: Really think about books you've read that you connected with and why. I've also seen similar questions asking about a news article you recently read, so try to stay up to date with the news, too!
Question 11: Why Do You Want to Go to College?
Why they're asking this: For this question, schools are trying to understand why you're motivated to pursue higher education.
What they're looking for: Colleges want to see you have clear goals you're trying to accomplish by attending college. Obviously, they don't want to hear that you want to go to college because your parents are making you or so you can attend wild parties. In your answer, emphasize how college will allow you to pursue your passions, aid in your personal development, and enable you to fulfill your future goals. Be specific. What are your passions and goals? How will college give you an opportunity to pursue these passions? What college activities will increase your awareness and facilitate your intellectual and emotional growth?
How to prepare: For ideas, check out the pros in my article about if you should go to college.
Question 12: What Do You Like to Do for Fun?
Why they're asking this: This question is designed to get a better sense of your general interests and overall personality.
What they're looking for: Your answer doesn't only have to include activities that are academic. After all, you probably wouldn't be believed if you said all you do for fun is read science textbooks and do math problems. If some of what you do for fun is intellectual, though, explain why you find these activities fun. Finally, try to avoid general answers such as "hang out with friends."
How to prepare: You shouldn't have to prepare much for this question since I assume you already know what you like to do for fun. However, spend some time thinking about why you enjoy these activities.
Question 13: What Is an Obstacle You've Faced and How Did You Get Through It?
Why they're asking this: Colleges want to know if you've faced (and overcome) any significant challenges in your life. They also want to see that you're persistent and willing to work hard in order to overcome these obstacles.
What they're looking for: It's fine if you haven't had some awful, incredibly difficult obstacle in your life. Think of a time when you faced a problem that challenged you, and you put in a lot of effort to solve it. Your obstacle could be related to your home life, school, or an extracurricular activity. In your response, explain how the obstacle challenged you and emphasize what exactly you did to overcome it.
How to prepare: Think of a significant challenge you've had in your life and how you dealt with it. What did you learn from the problem? How did you solve it? Did it change or influence the way you address similar problems?
Question 14: What Makes You Unique?
Why they're asking this: This question is essentially what all the other questions above are meant to determine. It's another general question that's often difficult to answer. We are all unique, but it can be hard to put into words exactly what separates you from other people.
What they're looking for: Schools ask this question because they want to get to know you better. You can discuss a trait or multiple traits you possess. Give examples and stories that demonstrate these qualities. Do you have any uncommon interests or goals? Is your background very unique?
How to prepare: I recommend doing some serious brainstorming to address this question. Write out specific attributes and anecdotes you can share that demonstrate your uniqueness. When do you feel most comfortable? What makes you the proudest?
How to Prepare for College Interview Questions
For each of these questions, I recommend jotting down some notes so that you can remember key points or details. Don't try to completely write out your answers and memorize them. The way you speak in an interview is supposed to appear conversational and not rehearsed. Also, if you try to memorize your answers and forget your script during the interview, you'll end up looking confused and unsure of yourself.
Practice your responses by having somebody ask you these questions and then answering them as if you were actually in the interview. Remember that you want to be as specific and detailed as possible. Learn to separate yourself from all the other applicants being interviewed.
For some of these questions, it'll be helpful to review your personal statement. Your personal statement likely has some details or stories you can incorporate into some of your answers.
How Do You Answer Questions You Didn't Prepare For?
Undoubtedly, the questions above aren't the only possible interview questions. Regardless of how much you prepare, you'll almost definitely be asked a question you weren't expecting. There's no need to be too nervous, though. Just try to give honest, detailed answers. As long as you're thoughtful and professional, you shouldn't worry too much about surprise questions.
Also, you might be able to incorporate some details from the other questions you prepared for in your responses. For example, for any question related to academics, you could probably include details from your response to the question, "What are your academic strengths?"
If you want to get more comfortable with the interview process, have a friend or parent ask you questions about yourself, and respond as if you were in the interview. This is an excellent way to prepare you for the real deal and will give you more confidence.
Source: https://blog.prepscholar.com/college-interview-questions-you-should-prepare-for
Preparing for college, just like life, is about balance. Helping your child (or children) prepare for college is centered around gaining information, having open discussions with them, and providing a supportive environment.
Below are a few tips on how to prepare for college to get you started.
Start Saving Money
Ideally, parents start saving money for college as soon as their child is born. However, that’s not always possible. Still, you should start putting money aside as soon as possible.
Nearly every state has a 529 Plan in place, which offers parents an opportunity to save money for their children’s college education. In the majority of plans, your choice of school is not affected and tax incentives, similar to a 401K or IRA, may be available.
However, every state has different rules, so be sure to check to see all your options. This is also a good point to create a user ID with FAFSA and research different financial aid opportunities.
Attend Financial Aid and College Nights
When it comes to how to prepare for college, one of the best starting points are the college fairs or financial aid nights that many high schools host.
These are great opportunities for you and your child to talk to representatives from various schools. On top of getting valuable information, it might also be a great way to start a conversation with your child. For instance, you could have an open discussion about if your child wants to stay close to home or is more interested in going across the country.
Attend a few of these events and talk to as many different schools as possible. Then, take the information, and help your child create a list of questions for their guidance counselor as they start the college planning process.
Explore Scholarship Opportunities
While it’s important to teach your child how to be independent, it’s also important to help them through the toughest parts.
Searching for scholarship opportunities can be one of the more tedious processes of college planning. Sitting down with your child and helping them sludge through various requirements can help keep them motivated and potentially find some scholarships that meet their current academic standing.
One of the best tips is to focus on local or regional scholarships. While they typically award less than national scholarships, they usually have less applicants, which means less competition. Start there, then check out other scholarship databases. And don’t forget to see if scholarships are offered at the schools themselves!
Emphasize Learning
College should be a time of intellectual exploration and growth. To help your child prepare for college, emphasize learning in the household. This means playing a motivating role and stressing the pleasures of reading. You could also try taking trips to museums, theater, and other learning environments.
Set an example of life time learning and it may rub off on your child. They might begin reading more for pleasure and seeking out new educational experiences.
Encourage Independence
Your child is preparing to enter adulthood and experience complete independence for the first time. Therefore, it is up to you to help prepare them for the challenges they may face over the next four years.
One way is to give them experience in being independent. This means pushing them to find new extracurricular activities or working part-time, all while maintaining their grades and performing college research. Fostering independence may also mean stepping back a little. Allow them to succeed (or fail) on their own. Of course, you can still be there to help and issue friendly reminders. Think of this time as a test run for college, with you still standing nearby.
Explore Careers and Majors
One of the most important steps to helping prepare for college is understanding what your child wants from his or her postsecondary degree. There are plenty of resources available both online and in print about industries that are expected to grow over the next ten to fifteen years and what majors those industries are seeking.
This may be a great way to help guide your child to a major that will not only challenge them, but also provide valuable skills and knowledge that may help them after graduation. Plus, it may provide you with useful information to help support your child’s long term goals.
Ask Questions
In trying to create an open dialogue with your child about their college planning, it’s important to ask questions. Many teenagers don’t respond well when their parents tell them what to do, especially when it comes to important decisions like choosing a college and a major. Some teens may make this more difficult by not divulging as much information as you’d like, but be persistent.
You might ask about careers and majors they’re interested in, schools that have caught their eye, and what’s important to them as they prepare for the next step in their life. Stay open to their answers. They may surprise you. Then offer feedback and ask clarifying questions to help them further their thinking.
Visit Colleges
One of the most important steps in the college planning process is visiting a number of schools. This is the only way to get a feel for the vibe and culture.
Colleges and universities make it easy for you to visit the school through open house events and tours. These are great opportunities for you and your child to experience a college firsthand. Make a list of questions to ask on a college tour. Then, after visiting a number of schools, you and your child can narrow the list together.
Narrow The List of Colleges
As your child progresses into their junior year, it is important to narrow down their favorite schools. This doesn’t mean going from an initial list straight down to the list of schools they are applying to.
Instead, take time with the process so that you may find a perfect school for you and your child. This means requesting more information from a variety of schools to see what types of programs they offer and to see if it fits with your child’s goals and expectations.
With these steps, and a positive environment that encourages learning, you and your child could work together to find a perfect school for them.
Source: https://www.elearners.com/education-in-the-news/prepare-for-college/
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is based on income and tax information from the prior-prior year federal income tax return, current asset information and current demographic information. Gathering certain documents in advance will make filing the FAFSA easier.
Keep a copy of these documents, in case you need them later. Some applicants are selected for “verification” each year. These applicants will need to provide copies of the source documentation for one or more data elements from the FAFSA.
Referring to these documents when completing the FAFSA can help avoid errors. For example, the student’s name on the FAFSA must match the student’s legal name on the Social Security Card, or the FAFSA will fail a data match with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
This checklist will help you identify the documents you will need to complete the FAFSA and other financial aid application forms. Records may be required of both the student and parents, if the student is dependent, or the student and the student’s spouse, if the student is married. If the student’s parents are divorced, the stepparent’s tax records will also be required if the custodial parent has remarried as of the date the FAFSA is filed.
Proof of Identity
- Student’s Social Security Card or Alien Registration Card, as appropriate
- Parent’s Social Security Card, if any. If the parent is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, enter 000-00-0000 instead of a Social Security Number
- Student’s FSA ID and Parent’s FSA ID. The parent should not create a FSA ID for the student and vice versa, as this can cause problems
- Student’s Driver’s License (optional)
Tax Records for the Prior-Prior Year
- W-2 and 1099 forms and other records of money earned. These forms may be required for the FAFSA and for verification
- Federal income tax returns, such as IRS Form 1040, IRS Form 1040A and IRS Form 1040EZ. Although most families will be able to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to transfer information from federal income tax returns to the FAFSA, not everybody will be able to use the tool. Foreign income tax returns may be required, as well as income tax returns from Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau
Records of Untaxed Income
- Child support received
- Tax exempt interest income
- Veterans non-education benefits
- Untaxed portions of IRA and pension distributions, excluding rollovers
- Untaxed disability benefits and workers compensation
Exclusions from income
- Student aid Included in adjusted gross income (AGI), such as the taxable portion of scholarships and fellowships, AmeriCorps benefits and taxable earnings from Federal Work-Study
- Child support paid
- Combat pay
Records of Assets
- Most recent bank and brokerage account statements
- Cash, savings and checking account balances
- Records of stocks, bonds, mutual funds and other investments
- Business, farm, and other real estate records, including any mortgages
If there have been recent changes in account balances, print out the current account balance from the bank or brokerage firm’s website. This may help with verification, since the most recent account statements might differ significantly from the current balances as of the date the FAFSA is filed.
Source: https://www.cappex.com/articles/money/documents-FAFSA-financial-aid
The following are some conversations to have with your child to better prepare him or her to leave the nest:
- Tell your child that change is both exciting and stressful because it takes us from what we know to what we don't know, which always requires an adjustment.
- It's also important for them not to jump to the wrong conclusion that their discomfort means they made the wrong choice. Most likely, they just need to be patient and give themselves some time to get used to their new surroundings.
- Since going to college is a new stage of life, talk to your child about how stress is normal and unavoidable, and how it's best to deal with it before it gets too high. Self-care is important. You should eat in a way that keeps your blood sugar stable, get enough sleep, and do some kind of exercise or stress-relieving activity.
- Not everyone is made the same, and we can all find ourselves on the wrong end of a comparison in some way. It's also important not to judge yourself by your grades or use them to predict your future success.
- Work ethic, honesty, and a "can-do" attitude are what matter.. Even though grades are the most important thing in college, these are the things that predict success more.
- If your child does badly on a test, they don't have to feel like they're a failure and will never succeed. Instead, they can tell themselves, "Even though I did badly, this is not a sign of a pattern, and it doesn't mean I can't succeed because there are things I can do to improve my performance."
- For example, they can talk to their professor about how to study best for the next test, study with a friend, or go to the college resource center for more help. Effort is always fruitful and never futile.
- Tell your child to go to the counseling center at their college if they are having trouble adjusting. Your child might think that asking for help shows weakness or that something is wrong with them. Tell your child that this is not true and that asking for help is a sign of strength and a healthy way to deal with problems.
- Finally, tell your child that everyone gets scared when they try something new, even if it looks like they're not. They're probably feeling the same way on the inside as your child. So tell your child not to assume that something is wrong with them just because other people seem settled and happy when they are not.
Source: https://www.road2college.com/10-conversations-to-help-your-child-transition-to-college/
Resist the urge to phone and text every five minutes…and tell your son or daughter to do the same
Dori Hutchinson (Sargent’85,’96), a Sargent College associate clinical professor and director of services at BU’s Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, lives in Rich Hall as a faculty-in-residence. She reports firsthand that many parents “come to college” with their freshmen via technology, talking and texting throughout the day about every class, meeting, and assignment. “You want to promote independence in your kid, and this is part of what college is about—developing this independent life,” says Hutchinson, who is the mom of three recent college grads. “Resist texting and telephoning every day. It’s a hard thing to do if you’re not used to it. Try to do it every couple of days, at least in the beginning.”
Experienced upperclassman Claire Doire (COM’20) says it’s a really good idea to agree on a FaceTime or phone call schedule. This way, expectations are clear on both sides, and you don’t have to worry about calling in the middle of class, a meeting, or (God forbid) a party, and your son or daughter doesn’t have to feel bad about hanging up and rescheduling.
Don’t panic if you don’t hear back right away
“If we don’t pick up when you call, we’re most likely not dead, in danger, dying, or stuck in a ditch somewhere,” Doire says. “We’re probably just in class, or between phone charges, or napping.”
Upperclassmen especially can be more lackadaisical about returning a phone call or text. “We’re just busy trying to eat three meals a day and get to class on time and have halfway decent social lives, sleep every now and then, and maybe even hit the gym,” she says. “We’re trying, we swear.”
Let your student solve problems—this means saying no when they ask for help finishing a paper or switching dorms
Hutchinson says that while it may be tempting to pitch in, your son or daughter needs to learn how to go it alone. “Going to college is a big transition—no matter how smart your child is academically, socially, and emotionally,” she says. “Parenting nowadays is about alleviating struggles, so a lot of these incoming first years lack resiliency.”
“They need to learn how to call for a doctor’s appointment, set up their schedules, do laundry,” says Christy Loring, associate director of BU’s Parents Program. “I’m getting calls and emails from parents asking when is Move-in or saying their student hasn’t heard from their roommate. This should be the student calling, not the parent.”
“We try to help parents help their child advocate for themselves,” Daryl DeLuca, assistant dean of students, says. “That’s the foundation. Once a student has the ability to advocate for themselves, it’s a whole new ball game.”
This doesn’t mean you can’t help…sometimes
One of the ways to help your student build resiliency is to be curious, ask questions, and encourage them to use campus resources—have you checked out this issue with your RA? Have you gone to your advisor? Have you gone to the student tutoring center? Just don’t call the offices yourself looking for the answer. In fact, legally, colleges are usually not allowed to talk to parents about issues their children are having, according to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), federal laws governing student privacy.
Remember to listen and don’t lecture
“The last thing we want to hear is our parent lecturing about how they would have done x, y, and z,” Doire says. “I promise that if we need advice on something—like what kind of medicine to buy, or which clothes are okay to wash together—we will call you and ask.”
Normalize struggle
Students will make mistakes, and that’s all right. Frame it as a learning opportunity, Hutchinson says. It’s OK to get a B on a test; it’s not the end of the world. New students often feel like they can’t screw up, she says, and a lot of them are coming in at the top of their high school class, but everyone here at BU is smart, and it can be a little unsettling. “Don’t try to fix it, but normalize it,” she says. “Acknowledge that it’s hard.”
Promote wellness strategies
Stress to your child that sleep is really important and they should try not to stay up until 2 or 3 every night. Promote participation in dorm activities as a way to meet people. Encourage a daily routine of eating, sleeping, and activity, because this groove helps them deal with anxiety. Something as simple as remembering to carry around a Nalgene and staying hydrated has been proven to boost energy and ward off colds, which can run rampant in a dorm’s tight quarters.
“Sometimes students need a pep talk, a little positive energy, or even a little kick in the ass,” DeLuca says. The Dean of Students offers open pep talk hours every Wednesday afternoon, where students can meet with someone from the office for advice, words of encouragement, or direction.
For those in need of more serious help, check out another installment in this series, “When to Intervene.”
Stay in the know
In addition to leading an Orientation parents-only section, the BU Parents Program keeps parents informed and involved throughout the year with campus news and by hosting events. Loring recommends following the Parents Program on Facebook, as it posts reminders about upcoming events (e.g., the fall career fair) and campus news.
Shameless pat on the back: BU Today is also a great place to keep apprised of this kind of info.
Still miss them? Send something via snail mail
Surprise cards or care packages are guaranteed to make your son or daughter’s entire week, Doire says, especially during finals. “We may not like to admit it, but we totally miss having our built-in parental support system around,” she says.
Source: www.bu.edu/articles/2019/how-to-let-go-when-your-child-goes-to-college
Here are a few of the ways you can support your child through their university experience:
1. Don’t Pressure Them to Go
When your child completes high school or college, they are not required to immediately enroll in a university. It's acceptable if they choose to take a year off to gather their thoughts and choose their personal objectives. Additionally, it's acceptable if they choose to work a few jobs before deciding whether to attend college.
It's crucial to avoid putting pressure on your kids or making them feel like they're falling behind. Give them the time and space they need to think things through and assess their alternatives before deciding on a certain university. You absolutely do not want your child to attend a new campus until they are prepared emotionally and psychologically to do so.
You may utilize this opportunity to teach them important life skills rather than pressuring them to enroll in a university program. For instance, now is a fantastic time to start cooking with your child if they lack the most basic culinary abilities. Additionally, you want to encourage them to engage in leisure activities that will help them unwind when they are separated from friends and family, such as music, gardening, or sports.
2. Examine the school's mental health services
This is an excellent opportunity to check out whether these colleges offer any mental health programs if your child has already begun applying to several universities. Do they have counselors or consultants on campus? Or do they provide mentorship programs to assist freshmen? Before your child makes their final decision, you should ask them these questions.
Make sure your child informs the university of any current requirements if they have any physical or mental health problems. The university administration will be able to perhaps provide your child with further help as a result of this.
3. Motivate Them to Ask For Help
Asking for aid from others is acceptable. The best advise you can give your child while they are attending college is this. Don't give kids the impression that they must handle everything alone. They will have to work on a variety of topics at once, including lectures, assignments, quizzes, and projects. Encourage them to ask their friends and lecturers for assistance if they feel overworked.
Furthermore, this is an excellent opportunity to let them know they can always count on your support. While you are unable to assist them academically, you can always provide some encouraging words.
4. Maintain Contact
Today, even if your child is thousands of miles away from home, you may still see their face everyday thanks to advancements in technology. By speaking with your youngster frequently, you may take advantage of this.
Remind them that, no matter what, their family will always be there for them. You can also arrange a group video conference with other family members.
5. Honor Their Accomplishments
Encourage your child by praising each modest accomplishment. A simple homework turn-in might be enough to celebrate. Send them presents and care packages to keep them inspired and to help them feel loved. The most important thing is to let your child know that you value all of their accomplishments, no matter how tiny.
The university experience for a child may be greatly impacted by parental support, from the unsure first days on campus through the big graduation party. Just keep in mind that even if you aren't able to be there in person, you can still be there for your child when they need it and support them to succeed.
Source: https://www.mommykatandkids.com/2020/11/5-ways-emotionally-support-child-university.html
Fraternity and sorority life means that you are part of a group of men and women whose names are made up of letters from the Greek alphabet. These groups are selective about who they let in, and many of them have been around for a long time. Fraternities and sororities were made so that each chapter could start its own academic, community service, and social projects. Fraternity and Sorority life is based on friendship, leadership, academics, and giving back to the community. These communities can also help people make professional connections and support networks that will last for a long time.
Source: https://www.oswego.edu/point/need-know-greek-life-faq#anchor1
Making Connections to Greek Organizations on Campus:
Arizona State University: https://eoss.asu.edu/fsl
The University of Arizona: https://greek.arizona.edu/organizations
Maricopa Community Colleges: https://www.maricopa.edu/students/student-life/clubs-organizations
Let's be honest: networking is probably not your main concern right now.
But trust us, when you walk across the stage at graduation and are already happily employed, you will thank yourself for building a professional network. Now, the question is, where do you start? When you network, you don't have to wear a suit and use industry jargon over dry cocktails. Instead, here are seven simple tips to help you get started with networking:
1. Build networking into your everyday routine
If the idea of networking is intimidating to your introvert-self, you're not alone. But, with a little intention, you can start building your network during your everyday activities, like engaging with your professors and classmates.
You're going to class… right? Sometimes your professors and classmates can be some of your most valuable assets when it comes to job hunting. Not only can your professors offer valuable industry insight and advice, they've also taught some bright students in the past — what are they up to now? Sometimes those former students will email professors links to job openings: “Graduation is coming up… know any promising students who could take on this role?” By actually talking to your professors, it keeps your name in the back of their minds when this question arises.
And sure, today your classmates are wearing pajamas to lecture and look pretty sloppy, but who knows where they might land after graduation. Wouldn't it be nice to build a relationship with them now? One day they just might work at your dream company, and you can say “Hey, remember me from philosophy class? Yeah, it was the worst.”
2. Get involved on campus
There are a number of benefits to getting involved on campus. You'll make friends, beef up your resume with college involvement, and, yes, build your network.
There are a ton of ways to get involved on campus, including honor societies, professional clubs, social sororities and fraternities, jobs, student media, club spots — you name it. Not only will you be able to connect with a number of other students, you'll also be able to connect with speakers, advisers, and mentors.
If your campus has an involvement or club fair, go! Or sign up for a campus email newsletter, peruse the bulletin boards in the study lounges or library, and talk to classmates and friends. As cheesy as it sounds, there's something out there for everyone.
3. Pay a visit to your campus career center
Chances are, your campus has a career center full of free resources. You might think: Do I really need these? Yes, yes you do!
Find open internships or jobs posted by alumni, get tips on how to build your online presence, participate in a mock job interview, and learn about upcoming job fairs. Even if you aren't actively looking for a job right now, it can't hurt to stop by these job fairs. Shake hands with company representatives, pass your resume around, have conversations, learn what's going on in your industry, and see where your potential future lies.
4. Develop your online presence
If the idea of talking to strangers makes you a little sweaty, don't worry. You can also network from behind a screen — though not exclusively.
Start by building your online presence. If you haven't already, create your LinkedIn profile. Depending on your industry, you might also want to make a website or start an online portfolio. Even if it's a little sparse right now, you're getting an awesome head start.
You can also leverage social media, as long as your social profiles are cleaned up. Your school might even have an alumni group on Facebook, and these can be infinitely helpful. Alumni will often post job openings within their company, and if you're a fit, you can reach out to the poster to learn more. You already have one thing in common (ahem, where you went to school), so start a conversation. Ask thoughtful questions about the company and the open position. They just might go to their manager on Monday morning and give you a glowing recommendation, putting you ahead of the pack.
5. Be open to new connections
Honestly, establishing a networking connection could happen anywhere. Maybe you're at your bus stop and overhear a professor talking and politely join in. Or you're in line at the local coffee shop and hear a fellow student chatting about the guest lecturer they're excited about.
6. Don't be afraid to make the first move
Ok, so this is sounding like a dating guide. But really, don't be afraid to make the first move when it comes to building your network. Confidence can go a long way! Our best small-talk tip? Be genuine. Don't treat networking like a game of who can make the most connections or how many resumes you can pass around. Instead, genuinely take interest in who you're talking to — who they are and what they do. Try to remember important information about them. If you have to, jot some notes down in your phone.
If you're having trouble keeping a conversation flowing, start asking some thoughtful questions: “How did you become the CEO of your company?” “What does your day-to-day look like?” “Any advice for a young person who's looking to get into your industry?” “What are some important things I should look for when applying to jobs?” These are just some examples of what you could ask.
7. Maintain your networks
We can't emphasize enough that networking is more than collecting business cards, passing out resumes, and gaining LinkedIn connections. It's hard work, and you'll want to invest some time in maintaining your networks. If you meet someone at a job fair, for example, shoot them an email afterward. Even if they don't have your perfect job position open right now, let them know you appreciate the time they took to talk to you.
For brownie points, throw in something personal you learned during your conversation. This will show that you were genuinely listening, and they just might remember you when they're hiring again.
Source: topresume.com/career-advice/networking-tips-for-college-students
Clubs and organizations are a big part of college life! A club is a group of students organized with a similar interest for a social, literary, athletic, political, or other common purpose; while an organization is a group of students organized for and acting toward a particular cause. Students have the opportunity and choose to join these groups for many reasons including: pursuit of individual interests; career networking opportunities; social camaraderie; and political activisms. Most colleges and universities have a very active student club and organizational system that can be accessed by visiting on-campus offices and individual websites. All students should be strongly encouraged to pursue club and organizational membership opportunities to help them enrich their college experience.
What are different types of campus clubs and organizations?
Many schools have a large variety of campus clubs and organizations. Also, students can establish organizations that are not present on their campus if they desire. You will find that many schools have memberships that are represented by the following types of clubs and organizations.
- Academic: Academic clubs and organizations can be represented in many ways. Some clubs may function for a particular purpose, such as the Academic Quiz Team, which is a club at the University of Maryland that competes with other similar school clubs about academic (University of Maryland, 2013). Academic clubs may have student membership with interest in a particular field or industry, such as Air Force ROTC (University of Maryland, 2013).
- Cultural: These organizations represent people from all over the world and promote an awareness of cultural diversity on campus. These organizations are not limited to including only those from a particular culture; however they do provide an opportunity for those from the same ethnicity, culture, and/or nation to develop kinship (University of Maryland).
- Faith-Based: These types of clubs and organizations usually include those of the same faith or religion that wish to gather for various purposes. They can be represented by different purposes such as a gospel choir or a religious faith club (Howard University, 2013).
- Honors/Achievement: Honorary organizations have been established to provide recognition to those students that have provided exemplary achievement in various areas, such as academics, leadership, and community service. Membership in these organizations and clubs are restricted to specific selection that may be based upon different criteria, including GPA and other notableaccomplishments as decided by a selection committee (University of Maryland, 2013).
- Sports Clubs: The governing body for these clubs is led outside of the college athletic department and they have no affiliation with the university sports teams. Teams are usually organized within a league system that organizes and regulates the competition. The teams that participate in this type of competition are numerous and may include sports events such as football, lacrosse or volleyball (University of Maryland, 2013).
- Political: These organizations include group of students that are affiliated with particular parties, ideologies, or like to engage in civic discussion. Political parties may include groups such as Political Latinos, College Republicans, and Model United Nations (University of Maryland, 2013).
- Public Service: These organizations function primarily to provide service to those who have needs that aren’t being met. Students support individuals within communities in need of various services such as financial assistance, tutoring, and respite care; as well as providing services to the community, such as planting gardens and renovating homes. Students can work within organizations that have been established solely at the college or university or they may work with national agencies. An example of an organization that exists on campus only is Team Happiness. This is organization was established at The University of Maryland to raise awareness about drinking and driving (University of Maryland, 2013). Habitat for Humanity is an organization that has a large presence on many campuses throughout the United States (Habitat for Humanity, 2013). It is an international organization that provides affordable housing.
How easy is it for a student with a disability to participate in a campus club or organization?
Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) relates to the requirements of private entities in the realm of public accommodations and commercial facilities (Americans with Disabilities Act, n.d.). The technical assistance manual is a “… publication issued by Federal agencies under section 506 of the ADA to assist individuals and entities in understanding their rights and duties under the Act” (Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, 2013). To access the manual follow the link: http://www.ada.gov/taman3.html.
The ADA addresses the rights of persons with disabilities to building access and other accommodations, such as interpreters, note-takers, etc. These accommodations help to ensure that, among other things, persons with disabilities can attend college with a minimum of difficulty and that their right to experience the world of higher education is not infringed upon.
Although groups and organizations are not an official University or College office, registered student organizations are expected to provide accommodations when possible. Students with disabilities must often advocate for their rights by communicating their needs to the leadership of the club or organization. Discuss the accessibility of facilities with the event organizer. You may want to provide the organizers with the Title III manual link: http://www.ada.gov/taman3.html.
Students with the disabilities have a right to accommodations that will make joining and participating in clubs and organizations “easy”. Some of the disabilities that may be affected through accessibility include:
- Wheelchair usage and mobility impairments: The site should have accessible elevators, restrooms, parking, and wheelchair ramps. An area for guests using wheelchairs and other mobile equipment should be reserved (American with Disabilities Act, n.d.)
- Hearing impairments and individuals who are deaf: Arrangements for a sign language interpreter can be made through the Office of Disability Services at your school. Other accommodation considerations may be the usage of real time captioning, pictorial symbols, closed captioning capability, and priority seating (Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, n.d.).
- Visually impaired, individuals who are blind and individuals who are print impaired: Accommodations can be made that include larger text on hand-out materials and video. Audio technology can be provided which allows the individual to follow the presentation (Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, n.d.).
What are the steps should you take when you want to join a campus club or organization?
When you are interested in joining a club or organization, there are different steps that you must follow depending upon the requirements of the group. Most membership information can be found on the college or university website within the Student Affairs Department. Some clubs and offices have physical locations on campus. The steps that you can take to join a club or organization are:
- Research different clubs offered at the school. There are usually a variety of clubs available to meet every interest.
- Make a list of your goals and interests.
- Attend several of the meetings and/or events of the organization before you join.
- Understand the requirements of the organization (i.e. financial, GPA, time commitment). This information may be available on the university or organization website; however, you may want to speak directly with a member as well.
- Complete the application process in a timely manner.
- Pay any dues promptly. If you need financial assistance, speak to the leadership of the club or organization.
- Stay active. In order for you to gain the best possible experience, it is a good idea to attend as many meetings and events as possible. If you are unable to participate due to other issues, communicate with the leadership. You may be able to have an inactive member status (Penn State Smeal College of Business, 2013).
Source: https://www.heath.gwu.edu/campus-life-joining-clubs-and-organizations
Here are a few ways to connect to clubs at various schools within Arizona state.
Arizona State University https://asu.campuslabs.com/engage
The University of Arizona https://www.arizona.edu/student-life/getting-involved
Maricopa Community Colleges https://www.maricopa.edu/students/student-life/clubs-organizations
Before the first day of a new employment, careers begin. Due to this, it's crucial that parents and educators assist high school children who are enrolled in distance learning, online courses, or homeschooling in choosing a job and preparing for the future. You and your child can both get insight into potential job options by sitting down and discussing career options. Here are some pointers to get you going.
One of your child's most crucial choices will be what to do for a living after high school. Because of this, it's critical for parents and educators to understand how to give high school children access to career tools that will aid in their future preparation.
You and your child may both gain insight into what your child wants to do in the future by sitting down and talking about potential careers for high school students. Here are some starting point suggestions for selecting a job after high school.
To explore your future career, please visit these resources:
Career Exploration and Skill Development
https://youth.gov/youth-topics/youth-employment/career-exploration-and-skill-development
Career Exploration for High School Students
https://www.collegiateparent.com/high-school/career-exploration-in-high-school/
Career Surfers
https://www.calcareercenter.org/Home/Content?contentID=404
Career Finders
https://roadtripnation.com/edu/careerfinder
Five Fun Ways to Test Drive a Career
https://careervision.org/five-fun-ways-test-drive-career/
My Next Move
https://www.mynextmove.org/
Start Early, Start Smart
https://careervision.org/start-early-start-smart-career-planning-high-school-college-2/
There are several good reasons to become a member of a pre-professional club. Pre-Professional Clubs give their members the chance to learn more about their chosen profession and support them as they are ready to start a job or further their studies. The clubs can assist students who are interested in a career in healthcare to learn more about the field, including how to write a personal statement, obtain observation hours, or apply to graduate programs. The pre-healthcare clubs listed below might assist you choose the proper path as you consider or advance your profession.
Pre-Professional Nursing Clubs
National Student Nurses Association
https://www.nsna.org/
P.A.I.N - Professional Achievements in Nursing
https://arizona.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/pain
Pre-Health Clubs
African Americans in Life Sciences
https://www.facebook.com/AALSUofA/
Cardiology Outreach Organization
https://arizona.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/COO
Fostering and Achieving Cultural Equity and Sensitivity
http://clubs.arizona.edu/~faces/index.html
The Health Preprofessional Honor Society
https://aednational.com/
Pre-Health PAMSA Arizona
https://www.facebook.com/uaapamsa
TALLO
https://www.azhosa.org/tallo
Pre-Medical Clubs
American Medical Student Association
https://www.amsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/AMSA_6x9_brochure_Med.pdf
Arizona MEDLIFE
https://arizona.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/arizonamedlife
Chicanos/Latinos for Community Medicine
https://www.facebook.com/ChicanosLatinosForCommunityMedicine/
Naturopaths Without Borders
https://arizona.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/uanwb
Pre-Medical Admissions Pathway (P-MAP)
https://diversity.uahs.arizona.edu/pre-medical-admissions-pathway-p-map-0
Pre-Dental Clubs
ASU Pre-Dental Society
http://asupredental.com/
Delta Delta Sigma Pre-Dental Honor Society
https://arizona.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/dds
Dental Brigades
https://dental.globalbrigades.org/dental-brigades/
Northern Arizona University Pre-Dental Club
https://nau.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/predental
Pre-Dental Honors Society
https://uscdeltadeltasigma.org/
You'll need to learn how to handle your finances, make changes, and be ready for the unexpected while you're in college or career school. You may develop your decision-making abilities and accomplish your financial and academic objectives by using a budget.
The purpose of a budget
A budget serves as a roadmap for achieving your financial objectives. Budgeting helps you keep track of your spending, identify when you need to make changes to it, and prevents you from always wondering where your money has gone.
Budgeting Can Aid in Debt Avoidance
Following a budget helps you stay within your means and helps you prevent or lower credit card debt. A budget can help you make the most of the money you have borrowed and will help you estimate how long it will take and how much it will cost to repay your debt if you have gotten student loans to assist with the expense of college or career school. If you do borrow, it will help your creditworthiness and financial future if you can make your payments on time each month.
Budgeting Can Aid in Goal Achievement
The first step in developing a strategy to realize your goals is to put them in writing. A budget will also enable you to plan for unforeseen costs and difficulties. Setting objectives will help the difficult decisions that come with budgeting become a little bit simpler.
You should define short-, medium-, and long-term goals and monitor your progress toward them as you construct a budget.
Short-term objectives
You may accomplish your financial and intellectual goals by using a budget.
Mid-term objectives
Thinking about the next one to three years may be considered to be in the medium-term. A new laptop purchase, $1,000 saved for an emergency fund, finishing your degree program, or $5,000 saved for a down payment on a car are a few examples of these objectives.
Budgeting Advice
Budget carefully. Is that $6 daily designer coffee worth it compared to making your own at home? Will your second year's travel obligations be greater than your first year's? Pay close attention to your expenditures.
Pay down your debt. Avoid keeping a balance on your credit card if you already have one. Prior to starting medical school, it is strongly advised that students pay off any revolving debt (credit cards, personal lines of credit, home equity lines of credit, etc.). Revolving loans can make your financial load worse and are difficult to manage.
Use credit wisely and carefully. Only take out loans that you really need to pay your bills. When you have less debt after graduation, you'll see the advantages.
Managing your funds may be found at https://uh.edu/medicine/admissions/scholarship-financial-aid/
Budgeting Techniques
- Discuss it. Consult with everyone who will be contributing to the cost of your education before creating a budget. Discuss the cost, anticipated costs, financial assistance, and the possibility of getting a new credit card or bank account.
- List your costs. Be prepared to pay for housing and board, transportation, clothes, textbooks, school supplies, and other optional expenses.
- Maintain a spending log. When in school, keep an eye on your expenditures. Decide which non-essentials may be cut after determining necessities and wants.
- Advance your budgeting practices. If your financial situation is sound, start preparing for the future. Make an emergency fund or a strategy to pay off college loans, for instance.
4 simple steps to create a college budget are available at https://blogs.denison.edu/money-management/2022/03/24/
Student budgeting tools
The following is a list of student budgeting tools:
Calculator for Student Budgets | My Finance Academy
Calculator for Student Budgets
https://www.bankrate.com/loans/student-loans/college-student-budget-calculator/
Student banking: how to begin
What justifies opening a bank account?
Similar to utilizing a smartphone app to send money to your roommate, a bank may help you manage your money online and access funds from your student loans more quickly. Opening a bank account today can save hassles in the future. The money from your student loans can still be accessed without a bank account. You can open a bank account, a check or cash account, a card from your school that serves as your student ID, or any combination of these. However, be in mind that not all locations may accept student ID cards, and that you can incur fees if you cash a check without a bank account.
Select a bank account that is appropriate for you.
Traditional banks and credit unions that may have branches on or near campuses and offer services like checking and savings accounts are among the banking options. Virtual or online-only banks are another option; they typically do not have physical locations but may provide checking accounts that permit withdrawals from ATMs owned by other banks.
Check out the banks and credit unions that are on or close to campus first. A list you can use as a starting point for your search is frequently included in the student handbook or new student welcome booklet. Additionally, you might ask other students for referrals. If one of the banks you are considering also has a location close to where you want to reside while you're not in school, that could be more practical.
Don't limit yourself to using the ATMs at the banks or credit unions that are located on or close to campus. Some online-only banks allow you to withdraw cash from well-known establishments and automatically repay ATM usage costs, even if the machine is not connected to their network. You may utilize an account with your student assistance account as long as it has a routing and account number, which is true of most accounts.
To ask inquiries, make a call or visit a website.
Call or visit the website to inquire about the costs they impose and how to avoid them before opening an account. Numerous banks provide accounts that are tailored to meet the needs of students, and many of them forgo some costs while you are enrolled in classes.
Establish a bank account
It's time to create an account once you've determined which bank is best for you. Planning beforehand can help you avoid being hurried because opening an account might take anything from a few minutes to an hour.
Before leaving
Assemble the paperwork you'll need to bring. The following goods are the most typical, but before visiting a bank, credit union, or applying to an online virtual bank, make sure to check their website for any other items they might require. Here are typical items required to open an account:
- Two forms of identification:
The first form of identification must be a U.S. driver’s license or passport. Some banks and credit unions accept foreign passports and Consular IDs, such as the Matricula Consular card.
The second form of identification can be a Social Security card, your birth certificate, or a bill with your name and address on it.
- Money to deposit
You may also need to bring some money in cash, perhaps $25 to $100, to deposit into the new account.
What to anticipate when visiting a conventional bank or credit union
Inform the bank employee that you want to open an account when you arrive. Frequently, a bank professional will sit with you, assist you with any paperwork, and address any queries you may have. In order for the bank to contact you, they will also want personal information from you, like your name, date of birth, postal address, phone number, and email address. The bank representative may request this information verbally, in paper, or digitally using a computer or tablet.
If you bring money to deposit, the bank clerk could ask for it. Remember that some accounts demand a minimum deposit.
While some banks will ship them to your address, some may be able to create your debit card while you're there. Debit cards are used to make purchases at establishments that accept cards bearing the network logo, such as Visa or Mastercard, and to withdraw cash from ATMs. While you wait for your debit card or permanent checks, you can utilize the interim checks that certain banks also provide.
What to anticipate from an online-only bank
You don't need to go to a physical location to open a checking, savings, or debit card account at an online-only bank. Online banks may nevertheless ask for the same details as traditional banks, like your postal address, phone number, and email address, as well as pictures or scanned copies of your identity papers. The bank could want you to show that you can access email and phone by clicking on a link they will provide you.
You must deposit funds once you've opened the online account. You'll need to find another method, like going to a nearby branch or partner store to deposit cash, if you don't already have an established bank account from which to transfer money. Online-only banks could ship you a real debit card similar to what you'd receive from a traditional bank, or they might only offer a virtual card that can only be used online or in conjunction with a tap-to-pay phone app at merchants that accept contactless payments.
Once you've left
Read the directions carefully when you get your card in the mail. To activate the card or set up your pin—a personal number you'll need to use to withdraw cash from an ATM—you might need to call a certain number.
You must maintain your checking account after you have one if you want to keep it. Effective account management enables you to keep track of your account and prevents unauthorized charges. Keep an eye on your account to make sure no unexpected fees are levied and to keep track of how much money you have accessible.
Explicitly examine your statements. Keep an eye out for any unusual transactions to ensure that your card hasn't been used without your knowledge. Also, notify the bank immediately if you believe that your card has been stolen so that they can suspend any use of it and give you a new one.
Maintain an eye on your equilibrium. Keep your expenditures inside the limits of your account balance. Some accounts also have a minimum balance requirement, so if your balance ever falls below that level, you can be charged a fee. We advise registering for transaction alerts and SMS or email low-balance notifications.
Don't pay overdraft fees. Your bank could charge you a fee to complete your transaction if you overdraw your account, as might happen if you purchase a textbook whose price exceeds the balance in your account. As a result, you will be responsible for paying both the charge and the shortfall on your purchase to the bank. Your ability to open a new bank or credit union account in the future may be impacted if you fail to pay back these costs. You may want to check with your bank to see whether they provide this service and what the costs are as not all accounts allow for overdrafts.
Source: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/paying-for-college/manage-your-college-money/
Cash App
Cash App is a mobile payment service available in the United States and the United Kingdom that allows users to transfer money to one another using a mobile phone app.
https://cash.app/
Chime
Chime Financial, Inc. is an American financial technology company which provides fee-free mobile banking services that are provided by The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank
https://www.chime.com/
GreenDot
Discover Green Dot's Cash Back Bank Account which offers the richest debit card with cash back, free cash deposits, and free ATM withdrawals!
https://www.greendot.com/
NetSpend
Manage Your Money with Netspend® Prepaid - Netspend gives you choices when it comes to managing your finances by giving you prepaid products that let you handle your money, your way.
https://www.netspend.com
PayPal
PayPal is the faster, safer way to send and receive money or make an online payment. Get started or create a merchant account to accept payments.
https://www.paypal.com/
Venmo
Venmo is a digital wallet that makes money easier for everyone from students to small businesses.
https://venmo.com/
Everyone expects first year of college to be pleasant in a comfy room with your closest buddy as your roommate, right? So say the movies.
Here are some ways to make dorm life more enjoyable.
Learn some rules.
Dorms have rules. Because of fire dangers, some buildings don't allow microwaves, refrigerators, etc. Some set quiet hours so everyone can sleep. Reading your college's handbook or contacting your prospective resident adviser will help you prepare. It will avoid you from bringing prohibited things and possible fines.
Dorms have RAs. Yours?
Meet your Resident Advisor when you move in. RAs are usually college veterans. They'll help if you're homesick or have roommate troubles.
If you don't need help transitioning to college, they may recommend good teachers or the tastiest mozzarella sticks on campus. They're wonderful allies!. If you lose your key in the middle of the night, know that your RA will assist you.
Lost. Learn your structure.
Carrying a map makes you look like a freshman, but being lost in your own building is worse. Some historic buildings lack elevators; others have 30 identical stories. Getting to know your surroundings takes a couple weeks, but walking about can help. Maybe you'll discover a piano or a study nook so you don't have to go to the library in the rain and snow. Knowing your surroundings will make lessons simpler.
Roommates are common. Befriend yours.
A roommate may be your best friend or worst enemy. They may even be your greatest friends turned worst foes. Living with someone in a tiny area is hard if you're used to having your own room. It's crucial to create ground rules early to avoid difficulties later.
If you recently met your roommate, don't be scared to ask for what you need. Tell your roommate if you're out by 10 and they prefer to stay up until 3 a.m. When you have an issue and can't find a solution, your RA connection comes in helpful.
Chances are, your roommate and buddies will be fantastic, but if not, that's cool too. Most importantly, don't judge your roommate before getting to know him or her. Going to college for the first time means meeting new people and learning new things. They may be different than you thought.
Lame dorm rooms. Enhance your space.
At first impression, dorm rooms might be depressing, so make it your own. Bring family photos, sports posters, and a cozy blanket. Make it appear like you live there to feel at home. Allow for the future. Save room for photos of your new buddies and the homecoming foam finger. Having things that remind you of home and college will make the transition simpler.
Living in a dorm may be stressful. It's only a year.
If you have trouble, remember that you're only there for a short time and can change your roommate, room, or building at the conclusion of the school year. Remember that you're only there for a year, so enjoy it while you can.
Source: ivywise.com/blog/what-to-expect-your-first-year-living-in-a-college-dorm.
Below is list of resource to help you find transportation when in need
2-1-1 Transportation Options – The site offers information on free transportation options available through the 2-1-1 Transportation Hotline. You can call 800-345-6432 or 211 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily) to book a ride.
United Way Worldwide in Partnership with Lyft – Free rides can be utilized for the following:
- Health: medical/dental/eye appointment and testing; substance use support; mental health support/community support; apply for Medicare/Medicaid/CHIP services; return home from ER; Veterans Affairs services; pharmacy services; vaccine appointments
- Employment: job interview; commute to/from work; pre-employment needs
- Food: grocery store; prepared/hot meals; food pantry/bank; SNAP/WIC benefits access
- Economic stability: financial coaching/empowerment; tax preparation services; essential supplies (non-food); record obtainment (SSN, birth/death certificate, etc.); transportation services (DMV, car repair, etc.)
- Legal: eviction court; court ordered community service; probation/parole check-in; court ordered education; commute to/from court proceedings/counsel
- Housing: accessing and maintaining benefits (vouchers, rental assistance, etc.); emergency shelter; utilities assistance
- Education: enrollment; commute to/from school, class, daycare; guardian school engagement; library or internet access
https://211arizona.org/crisis/heat-relief/transportation/#:~:text=2%2D1%2D1%20Arizona%20is,daily%2C%20to%20schedule%20your%20ride!
Arizona State University Transportation Resources – The site offers information on public transit options. The choices include Valley Metro, Discounted Rates for ASU Transit Pass, free neighborhood buses (Mesa Downtown Buzz and Tempe’s Orbit), the free Tempe FLASH service.
https://cfo.asu.edu/transit
Maricopa Community Colleges Transportation Resources– The site offers information on free bus and Light Rail tickets for Maricopa students, shuttle services, trolley routes, Phoenix free Circulator Routes, and reduced transit passes.
https://www.maricopa.edu/community-business/basic-needs/transportation
University of Arizona Transportation Resources – The site offers information on UA Carpool Program, U-Pass (Unlimited Discounted Rides on the City of Tucson Sun Tran Bus System and Sun Link Streetcar – note: There will not be any fares on Sun Link and Sun Tran until December 31, 2022), Cat Tran Campus Transit (free), and Pima County Rideshare (PAG).
https://parking.arizona.edu/transportation/
First-generation college students are people whose parents didn't go to college or didn't get a four-year degree. It can be hard for them to get a college degree if their parents never went to college or didn't get one.
One study shows that 89 percent of low-income students who are the first in their families to go to college drop out within 6 years without getting a degree. There are a lot of things that go into these numbers, but the most important thing is that you don't let them stop you from going to college.
First-generation students should never give up on their dreams and stop trying to go to college. There's a whole world out there to explore, and getting a college degree is the first step. So, we asked a few successful first-generation college graduates and college support staff for their best tips on how to make it through college and do well there.
- Look for academic help as soon as possible
One of the hardest things for first-generation college students is that they don't have anyone in their family who has been through the same problems they are. When you have more classes in college, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. This can be very stressful if you feel like there's nowhere you can go to get help.
Tyler Yost, a first-generation college graduate, says, "Take the time and go to tutoring if you are having trouble” (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016). "Go to your professor's office hours if you're stuck on a single idea. They don't like being alone in their office, and you could also learn a lot there” (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016).
If you're even a little worried about falling behind your peers in school, you should get help right away! In addition to office hours, most campuses have a variety of tutoring and support services that can help you catch up. It's not a bad thing to ask for help.
- Find students who are very motivated to work with.
When you think about how much time and money it takes to get a degree, it's crazy, but not all college students are going to be eager to learn. Yost says, "There will always be group projects, and it's up to you to find people who will work hard and teach you something in the process” (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016).
Find group and study partners who seem to care; they'll push you to learn more and make the most of your time. Yost says that his plan was to look for military veterans, other first-generation college students, and students whose families live abroad. He says that many of these people are very motivated to get a degree.
- Be happy with who you are.
You don't have to come from a long line of doctors and lawyers to fit in and offer something useful in college. Natasha Payes, who is the first in her family to go to college, says that the classroom can be scary. "But your point of view is important. Talk up and move to the front” (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016).
College discussions are meant to help students see things from different points of view. You're smart enough to have made it this far; don't let false ideas or misunderstandings about not fitting in stop you from learning. If you put yourself out there and really pay attention to what's being taught, you'll definitely learn more than if you just sit in the back row and don't say anything.
- Be proactive about getting financial help
Even though there are many scholarship opportunities for students each year, don't just expect them to fall into your lap. Even though looking for scholarships might not be the most exciting thing to do, putting in the time can really pay off in the end!
Jessica Mehta, a first-generation college graduate, suggests starting close to home. Check with the school you'll be attending, places of worship, and civic groups to see if they offer scholarships. After you've looked everywhere nearby, search the Internet. There are many trustworthy websites that can help you find scholarships (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016).
Mehta suggests using Scholly, an app that collects scholarship opportunities and has good filtering options to get rid of the ones that don't apply.
But keeping up with your scholarship search isn't the only thing you should do to make sure you have enough money to pay for college. When you're in school, it's important to keep careful track of any loan debt you're getting. If your family isn't able to help you with this, check out the resources at your school. Many schools offer financial literacy programs to help their students feel more confident about their money.
- Get involved!
Chanté Griffin, who is a first-generation college graduate, says, "I would tell first-generation students to find a way to make college feel like a home away from home"(The College of St. Scholastia, 2016). "I went out of my way to join clubs on campus” (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016).
Want to know how to feel like you belong quickly? Get involved! Whether you join a ballroom dance team like Griffin or a student political group, you'll find things you have in common with other members right away. You may even make friends for life.
If you don't know where to start, most colleges will have a list of student organizations and clubs. Find a few that sound interesting and ask about them. Most groups would love to have someone interested in joining, so don't be shy.
- Don't take on too much.
If you want to work while going to school, be careful and don't take on too much. Tell your boss what's going on. If you're working full-time and can afford it, ask if you can temporarily switch to part-time work.
A common mistake is to not think about how much time you'll need to do your work outside of class. You might have a class that meets only once a week, but the work you have to do outside of class will be the same as for classes that meet more often. Plan for a heavy load and make changes if you need to.
- Take chances (smartly)
"Want to start a business selling neon T-shirts to clubs? Start it. Want to learn how to play the mandolin. Yost says, "Find a group and try it"(The College of St. Scholastia, 2016). "You'll never have as much time to try things out in a place where there's so little risk again” (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016).
Now is your chance to take a chance and try something new that has always interested you. If it doesn't work out, you're in a place where it's not too hard to move on to something else that interests you. As much as college is about teaching you how to be successful when you get a job, it's also a crucial time in your life to find out who you are and what you're interested in.
Take advantage of your freedom and try something new. You might find a hobby or future career path that you'll love for the rest of your life.
- Build your support system
Who can help you if no one in your family knows how to handle the challenges of college? This is related to getting involved and asking for help in school because both of those things give you access to a lot of peers and teachers who might be able to help. Many colleges have support services set up to help and encourage students who may be having trouble on their way to getting a degree.
Still, don't forget that your family might be able to help you. Mom and Dad might not know much about calculus, but they know you well enough to listen if you need to talk. Also, I'm sure they miss you!
- Don't doubt yourself
"I was frightened. I wasn't sure what to think. I just knew that college would be harder than high school, and I was terrified that I would fail," Griffin says (The College of St. Scholastia, 2016).
Here's a little secret: the above quote could have been said by almost any first-year college student. When you're taking a big step in life, you're always going to feel a little nervous and unsure. Some people are better at hiding it than others. Don't let it get to you. Remember how hard you've worked to get here, and know that your family is proud of you and your ambition.
Remember: You belong here!!
Source: The College of St. Scholastia. (2016). 9 tips to help first generation college students thrive in the first semester. https://www.css.edu/about/blog/9-tips-to-help-first-generation-college-students-thrive-in-the-first-semester/
More Resources:
Arizona State University First Generation Tips
https://career.asu.edu/blog/7-tips-every-first-generation-student-should-know
College Guide for Indigenous and Native American Students
https://www.bestcolleges.com/resources/indigenous-native-student-guide/
Insider tips for first-generation college students
https://woc.aises.org/content/insider-tips-first-generation-college-students
Invaluable Tips to A Black First Generation College Student
http://www.bewellbridgeup.org/it-takes-one-to-know-one-6-invaluable-tips-to-a-black-first-generation-college-student/
Pieces of Advice for First-Generation College Students
https://www.teenvogue.com/story/17-pieces-of-advice-for-first-generation-college-students
Things Every First-Generation Latino College Student Should Know
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/20-things-every-first-generation-latino-college-student-should-know_n_55ce4d97e4b07addcb4304e0
Tips for Asian American First Generation College Students
https://aapaonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/AsAmFirstGen_factsheet_web-Bitney.pdf
Tips for LGBTQ+ College Students in their First Year
https://www.campuspride.org/10-tips-for-lgbtq-college-students-to-thrive-in-their-first-year/
As a college student, you have to juggle a lot of things: schoolwork, classes, exams, extracurricular activities, and sometimes jobs or internships off campus. As a college student, it can be hard to balance all of your responsibilities and your own well-being. However, it is important to take care of your mental health.
There are many ways for college students to take care of themselves and their mental health without letting it affect their grades or other parts of college. Keep reading to find out more about how you can take care of your mental and physical health, or skip down to the infographic for some tips and mental health mantras you can use right away.
In a world where individuals are expected to work long hours and skip vacations, the assumption that we must constantly be productive might hinder self-care. By engaging in self-care, you may reduce the demands of daily life and reset yourself for maximum productivity. Considering mental health expenditures, lost earnings, and more, self-care may benefit everyone.
Burning the candle at both ends can cause burnout, despair, anxiety, anger, and other problems. Self-care routines lessen or eliminate anxiety, sadness, stress, enhance focus, limit irritation and anger, promote happiness, and improve energy. Self-care reduces heart disease, stroke, and cancer. It may help us connect with our higher power and find life's meaning.
Consider SAMHSA's 8 elements of wellbeing while building your self-care strategy. These dimensions were established by substance abuse experts, but they apply to everyone.
Included are:
- Emotional
- Environmental
- Financial
- Intellectual
- Occupational
- Physical
- Social
- Spiritual
If the eight dimensions are maintained in a healthy balance, they often indicate better levels of wellbeing.
But there is still work to be done for all of us. Life is dynamic, and so are our wellness aspects. During difficult situations, we may depend on our strong points to help us get through. When too many aspects are damaged, we may struggle and find it difficult to handle things that we could easily do in the past.
Each of our strategies will be unique, but here are some ideas to explore from each of the eight categories. Feel free to change, replace, or add your own as you go. Keep in mind that this is all about you.
Emotional - Talk to someone, ponder, write, read, do something artistic, listen to music, work out, go for a walk, watch something that matches the mood (or does the opposite and changes it), cry it out, embrace someone, cuddle, laugh, and take a sleep.
Environmental - Go on a lovely stroll, take in some fresh air, enjoy the sun, appreciate the night sky, avoid littering, pick up trash, decrease waste, use reusable items, recycle, clean your house, redecorate a room.
Financial - Create a reasonable financial plan, create a savings account, begin saving (even if it is only $1 per day), attempt saving even more if you are currently saving, invest, reduce needless expenditures, evaluate where you can cut corners, avoid credit cards, and ask for a raise.
Intellectual - Read, listen to audiobooks, watch documentaries, do puzzles, be aware of your surroundings, become interested, try something new, tap into your creative/artistic side, enroll in a class, finish a program, and graduate.
Occupational - Learn a trade, acquire a degree, train for a promotion, accept the promotion, put together your resume, polish your resume, apply for your ideal job, take on a task you like, start your own business.
Physical - Work exercise every day, go for a walk, eat healthily, get your yearly exam, see the dentist, take your meds as directed, avoid drugs and alcohol, get 7-9 hours of sleep, and contact your doctor if you are not feeling well.
Social - Meet up with friends and family, stay in touch with old pals, volunteer, go out, have fun, engage in healthy social media usage, radiate optimism, use technology when distance is an issue, and laugh a lot.
Spiritual - Meditate, pray, contemplate, practice yoga, go to a significant location, do good for others, be attentive, examine your greater purpose and meaning, seek assistance from your higher power, love one another, and aid those in need.
988 Sucide and Crisis Hotline - The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a United States-based suicide prevention network of over 160 crisis centers that provides 24/7 service via a toll-free hotline with the number 9-8-8. It is available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
You can call 988 on your phone or text 988 for help
Arizona State University Mental Health Resources – The site offers information on ASU Counseling Services where you can Chat with or talk to a counselor 24 hours per day/7 days a week, Telehealth Consultation, In-Person Appointments at ASU Counseling Services, and a Crisis Line.
https://adulting.asu.edu/blog/youre-not-alone-asu-mental-health-resources
Maricopa Community Colleges Mental Health Resources – The site provides links to various mental health resources.
https://www.paradisevalley.edu/students/counseling/mental-health-websites
Pima Community College Mental Health Resources – The site offers information on Immediate Crisis, Personal Challenges (i.e. mental health, substance abuse, relationship advice, and sexual abuse/assault), and the Student Wellness Assitance Program (you can connect to a counselor 24X7).
https://www.pima.edu/student-resources/counseling/index#:~:text=Use%20the%20Student%20Wellness%20Assistance,251-9941%20for%20more%20information.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline – If you or someone you know are dealing with a substance abuse or mental health disorder, please call 800-662-HELP (4357) (There is someone to assist in English and Spanish) 24/7, 365 days a year.
https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
University of Arizona Mental Health Support – The site offers information on Self-Help Resources, Identity-Inclusive Services, OnDemand Mental Health Support, Peer Support, and Support for Sexual Violence Survivors.
https://caps.arizona.edu/
University of Arizona Well Track – The site provides a free tool to help deal with stress, anxiety, and depression
https://diversity.uahs.arizona.edu/mental-health-wellness
AZ Suicide and Crisis Hotlines by County and Tribal Nation
- Apache Country:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Cochise County: Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Coconino County:Health Choice Arizona
1-877-756-4090 - Gila County:Health Choice Arizona
1-877-756-4090 - Graham County:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Greenlee County:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - La Paz County:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Navajo County:Health Choice Arizona:
1-877-756-4090 - Maricopa County:Mercy Care
1-800-631-1314 - Mohave:Health Choice Arizona:
1-877-756-4090 - Pima County:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Pinal County:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Santa Cruz County:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Yuma County:Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan
1-866-495-6735 - Yavapai County:Health Choice Arizona
1-877-756-4090 - Ak-Chin Indian Indian Community:
1-800-259-3449 - Gila River Indian Community:
1-800-259-3449 - Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community:
1-855-331-6432 - Tohono O’odham Nation:
1-844-423-8759