Scholarship & Financial Aid
A college education is invaluable for many of us, yet the costs are real and all too high!
Students and parents/guardians need to objectively look at the costs of the different college options (local vs. remote, public vs. private, in-state vs. out-of-state, 2-year vs. 4-year) and to decide what is and is not possible financially. All college websites offer information on the cost of a year attending that institution (including housing, food, and other living expenses).
Most colleges do offer scholarships, some need-based and some merit-based. These scholarships are usually few in number, are competitive, and have early deadlines. You should apply for these as early as possible! Colleges may also offer information on grants, loans, and work-study programs. Individual college websites are a good place to start a scholarship/financial aid search.
Many websites exist to help students look for scholarships. Students should begin the hunt early, as some opportunities exist for high school sophomores and juniors to begin amassing scholarships. Don’t be put off by a small amount; a $500 scholarship can pay for a semester of books! And don’t forget your basic math: 10 x $500 = $5000! There is no limit to the number of scholarships you can win! You need to be zealous, creative, and willing to work (perhaps write essays or complete projects) for your chance at the money. Note: Do NOT pay for a scholarship search! Too many good sources exist that ask for no payment!
Helpful Links
- Government FAFSA Form
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid
- Required for most scholarships and financial aid
- Finaid Information Page
- CSS Profile Online
- Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
- College for Texans
- Texas B-On-Time (BOT) Forgiveness Loan
- FastWeb
College resources
Prepare Your Child for College
The Baff School’s primary goal is to meet the needs of each student to the best of our ability. We are commitment to help navigate the often confusing paths through the college search, applications, and acceptance processes.