WOODS COLLEGE OF ADVANCING STUDIES
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION STEPS
STEP ONE: Complete the Boston College Financial Aid process. This will provide you
with funding opportunities not only in the Woods College but through BC as well as
outside funding institutions. You can find instructions and forms for this process
at www.bc.edu/gradaidforms for Graduate Students and www.bc.edu/undergradaid for Undergrads.
Don't worry about anything that may look like a missed deadline, applications are
always welcome. This process will also guide you through the FAFSA process. You
can check your progress at www.bc.edu/finaidapp
STEP TWO: Review the attached Woods College Scholarships Criteria and
Categories document for details about the expectations and process.
STEP THREE: Complete the WCAS Scholarship Application which is included in this
packet.
In addition to the BC Financial Aid deliverables, the following documents must be
submitted to Anne Severo, Associate Dean Finance & Administration via email to
anne.severo@bc.edu or delivered by hand to Woods College of Advancing Studies
offices at St. Mary’s South.
1. Scholarship Application Form (see 3.e in the Criteria & Categories document)
2. Two one-page essays answering four questions (see attached application
form)
3. A brief statement of general reasons for applying (see 3.a in the Criteria &
Categories document)
4. Two letters of recommendation (see 3.b in the Criteria & Categories document)
5. Resume or CV (see 3.c in the Criteria & Categories document)
6. FAFSA ((see 3.d in the Criteria & Categories document)
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I.
Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories
Scholarship Criteria
1. Scholarships are available for those students who demonstrate financial need as
well as for those who demonstrate high levels of academic performance and/or
present other special circumstances. The scholarship criteria are outlined in detail
below.
2. Only applicants enrolled in the Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programs in the
WCAS either full-time or part-time shall be considered. All such students are
eligible to apply for a scholarship per the following guidelines:
a. Must demonstrate a minimum academic performance of a GPA of 2.66
or higher for current students (for merit scholarships the GPA must be
3.5 or higher). New students to the Woods College will also be
considered but this will be dependent upon demonstrated past academic
performance in high school, trade school or other college, whichever
was most recent. Students, both new and continuing, who have unusual
circumstances as to why their GPA has fallen below the 2.66 average (or
have not demonstrated successful high school, or other academic
performance, e.g., maintaining less than a C average) should submit
additional documentation such as a description of circumstances and/or a
letter from a school counselor or similar person with their application
detailing the reason for poor performance and why we should consider
their application at this time. This may include a case by case review to
establish whether or not the applicant qualifies for an award.
b. Student has demonstrated persistence in reaching their educational
goals (e.g., evidence from course records and other sources will be
examined, including unofficial transcripts, etc.) and must include two
letters of recommendation per guidelines below.
c. Student completes an interview with one of the members of the
Scholarship Committee (the committee member will utilize a standard
evaluation form).
3. All applicants must submit the following documents:
a. A brief statement of no more than one page which shall include general
reasons for applying, e.g., what draws them to WCAS, their
expectations, their goals and future vision, the subject they are interested
in studying and why, their interests, how the scholarship will help them,
etc. In addition, if a student wishes to apply for a particular scholarship
they should indicate such along with any reasons for choosing that
scholarship (the list of scholarships is found in Part II below.)
b. Two letters of recommendation. One from an academic professional and
one from one of the following: a former or current employer, a pastor or
religious leader, or someone who knows their situation well (exclusive
of immediate family).
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Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories
c. A resume or CV. If assistance is needed in preparing one, the WCAS
will be happy to offer such.
d. The most recently completed FAFSA (Free Application for Federal
Student Aid) form will be utilized. In addition, if the applicant has
special circumstances that the committee should consider (e.g., number
of children in school, job status, etc.) these should be detailed in a
separate letter.
e. Application forms
4. Past receipt of scholarship funds is no guarantee of future awards.
All completed applications that meet the minimum requirement will be reviewed
and decisions will be made in a timely manner.
II.
Scholarship Categories
The Woods College of Advancing Studies has made funds available to its students. All
students who submit completed admission applications and who are accepted into the program
can be considered for scholarships offered by the Woods College of Advancing Studies. To be
considered one must complete all required application materials and submit these to the
scholarship committee.
Students that meet the scholarship criteria will be automatically considered for the following
scholarships:
A.
Need-based Woods College of Advancing Studies Scholarship
Devlin Scholarship
Kate and Bob Devlin provided the naming gift for the college in April 2002. They
have demonstrated clear dedication to Boston College and the Jesuit concept of
Magis. This award is available to students who distinguish themselves in scholarship,
loyalty to the ideals of the Jesuit education, and service to others.
Walter J. Martin, S.J.
An inspiring teacher at Cranwell School, Director of the Delayed Vocation School,
beloved Executive Vice Principal of Boston College High, Chaplain of the Port of
Boston and Our Lady of Good Voyage Chapel. Father Martin opened new
possibilities for others to discover their talents and to learn how to think in new ways.
He knew the worth of individuals. He called them each by name. This scholarship is
designated for individuals who demonstrate a clear passion for learning and
improvement with a demonstrated financial need.
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Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories
Joseph W. McCarthy
A forward thinking professional in the hospitality field, Joseph McCarthy was a
determined learner who pursued the humanities to inform his insights, and to reaffirm
traditional ideals and strengths. His success supports those who reach beyond life’s
boundaries and especially those who indicate a desire to work in any area of the
hospitality industry, pursue the humanities or provide ministerial service.
Mark “Duke” Saccardo ‘96
Duke embraced the words of the prophet Isaiah as his life’s aspiration: “You shall be
called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of the streets to dwell in.” At a young
age, Duke embraced a faith that fostered a culture within the community that one can
trust that criminal and social justice can be achieved. A man forever in service to
others. This scholarship is especially designed for those with an interest in criminal
justice, social justice, social service and/or law.
Morrison-Uchenick Family
The Uchenick Family Scholarship opens new possibilities for others to discover their
talents and to learn how to think in new ways. Opening doors and helping students to
walk through those doors allows them to transform obstacles into challenges that can
be met. This scholarship is especially designated for older students who are
beginning or returning to studies as well as first generation students.
B.
Specifically Designated Scholarships
Especially for freshmen from Catholic schools:
The Dean Michael J. Harding, S.J., Scholarship
The President William J. McGarry, S.J., Scholarship
Especially for women:
The Elizabeth O. Walker Trust Fund
Especially for students with alternative learning strategies and schedules:
The Mary Delaney Hennessey Scholarship
The James A. Woods, S.J., Scholarship
Especially for local students with myriad outside responsibilities:
The Doris and Francis Ahearn Scholarship
The Robert D. Farrell, S.J., Scholarship
The Professor Joseph Figurito Scholarship
The Mary Hogan and James Murphy Scholarship
The Professor John J. McAleer Scholarship
The Elizabeth A. Strain Scholarship
The Cheryl A. Wright Scholarship
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C.
Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories
The Osher Re-entry Scholarship
The Osher Foundation Re-entry scholarship targets students who did not have the
opportunity, usually because of financial need, to complete their higher education at
an earlier stage in their lives but who now bring a strong sense of commitment to their
studies. Maine native Bernard Osher is a successful businessman and community
leader. His wife, the Honorable Barbro Osher, is the Swedish Consul General in San
Francisco.
The Osher scholarship funds are intended for students age 25 to 55+ whose collegiate
studies have been interrupted for 5+ years and will be completing their first 4-year
baccalaureate degree. Recipients must qualify to participate in the workforce for a
significant number of years upon graduation, perform at a high academic level (2.66
or better) and demonstrate financial need.
D.
Allston/Brighton Scholarship
The Allston/Brighton Boston College Scholarship Program provides academically
talented students from Allston/Brighton with scholarships to attend Boston College.
To be eligible for the award, the students must be permanent residents of
Allston/Brighton for a minimum of four years and be accepted for freshman
admission. In the event that ten Allston/Brighton students do not meet the
requirements, the scholarships are awarded to students from other Boston
neighborhoods. Students must also complete the Boston College financial aid
application process and have an institutionally determined need greater than $10,000
to be considered.
Allston/Brighton residents who study at WCAS are eligible for this scholarship.
E.
Merit-based Scholarship
There are several other scholarships available generally based upon merit, e.g., strong
academic standing at 3.5 or better GPA, along with other criteria such as
recommendations of professors, administrators, religious superiors (or a religious
community member) and, as appropriate, their academic advisor.
F.
Society of Jesus Scholarships
Partial and full scholarships are available for nephews and nieces of Jesuits working
at Boston College and who are seeking a degree or further studies.
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G.
Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories
Employee
Boston College faculty/staff and their children/spouses who study at WCAS must
follow the general guidelines set forth by Boston College.
http://www.bc.edu/offices/hr/resources/handbook/hbk-benefits.html#tr
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Boston College
Woods College of Advancing Studies
Scholarship Application
In keeping with the mission of the Woods College of Advancing Studies, to provide access to flexible and
rigorous education to individuals managing complex life circumstances, this form is part of the scholarship aid
application. Degree seeking students are all eligible to apply for financial assistance. Applications are reviewed
throughout the year, on a rolling and need-based schedule.
________________________________________________________________________
SCHOLARSHIPS
Especially for freshmen:
The Dean Michael J. Harding, S.J., Scholarship
The President William J. McGarry, S.J., Scholarship
Especially for women:
The Elizabeth O. Walker Trust Fund
Especially for students with
alternative learning
strategies and schedules:
The Mary Delaney Hennessey Scholarship
The Morrison-Uchenick Family Scholarship
The James A. Woods, S.J., Scholarship
The Doris and Francis Ahearn Scholarship
The Robert D. Farrell, S.J., Scholarship
The Professor Joseph Figurito Scholarship
Especially for local students
The Mary Hogan and James Murphy Scholarship
with myriad outside
The Walter J. Martin, S.J., Scholarship
responsibilities:
The Professor John J. McAleer Scholarship
The Joseph W. McCarthy Scholarship
The Mark “Duke” Saccardo ’96 Scholarship
The Elizabeth A. Strain Scholarship
The Cheryl A. Wright Scholarship
_________________________________________________________________________________
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Boston College
Woods College of Advancing Studies
Applicant Name:
_________________________________
Is this your first time applying for Woods College Financial Assistance?
Y
N
Returning Scholarship Aid seekers do not have to complete further interviews or submit letters of recommendation unless
requested by the committee
For which scholarship(s) are you applying? _________________________________
Are you requesting partial or full aid?
Reason for applying for this scholarship?
F
P
_________________________________
Multiple Steps are needed to facilitate review of your completed financial aid application:
1. Have you completed FAFSA?
Yes
No
2. Have you completed the Boston College financial aid process? (Check your progress at the following
link: www.bc.edu/finaidapp
Yes
No
PLEASE APPROXIMATE YOUR NUMBER OF COURSES FOR*
Fall _________ Spring ________ Summer ________
*Awards are adjusted to reflect actual number of registrations.
On an additional sheet please explain the following (not more than 1 page):
1. Are there any specific financial concerns that you want to bring to the attention of the scholarship committee
that will supplement their review of your financial aid application? Are there particular expenses or
circumstances that impact your budgetary limitations at present?
2. If there is a discrepancy between your FAFSA’s estimated family contribution (EFC) and your ability to
finance your tuition, fees, and other academic expenses, please explain in detail.
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Boston College
Woods College of Advancing Studies
On an additional sheet please explain the following (not more than 1 page):
1.What draws you to The Woods College of Advancing Studies? What are your expectations, goals, and future
vision? How will this scholarship help you?
2. If past academic performance was a GPA below 2.66 please explain.
Please note - Federal Financial Aid available during the Summer Sessions unless the student has a planned
graduation date of August or December. In exceptional circumstances the Woods College may offer Summer
Scholarship Aid but you must request special consideration for this from the Scholarship Committee Chair.
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Boston College
Woods College of Advancing Studies
In signing below, I agree that the information provided here is a full account of my present financial situation
and that I wish to be considered for a scholarship for the
2015-2016 academic year.
__________________
(Date)
________________________________________________
(Signature)
NAME (printed):__________________________________________________________
EAGLE NUMBER: _______________________________________________________
PREFERRED MAILING ADDRESS:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________
(
) _____________________
(Cell Phone)
________________________________________
(E-mail Address)
HAVE YOU ANSWERED EACH QUESTION AND INCLUDED ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS? ONLY
COMPLETED APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED.
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