ULM TULANE NORTHWESTERN LA-TECH UL LSU MCNEESE LSU-A SOUTHERN LC SOUTHEASTERN CENTENARY NICHOLLS This booklet is a compilation of information which you will need as you begin planning for college. It by no means contains all the information for what is probably the most important decision you will make. Rather, the counseling staff has designed this booklet so that the information will generate your own questions that will cause you to seek more in-depth information. Test Dates in the U.S., U.S. Territories, and Canada (found on www.actstudent.org ) 2013–2014 Test Date Registration Deadline (Late Fee Required) September 21, 2013 August 23, 2013 August 24–September 6, 2013 October 26, 2013 September 27, 2013 September 28–October 11, 2013 December 14, 2013 November 8, 2013 November 9–22, 2013 February 8, 2014* January 10, 2014 January 11–24, 2014 April 12, 2014 March 7, 2014 March 8–21, 2014 June 14, 2014 May 9, 2014 May 10–23, 2014 US SAT Registration Dates (register at sat.org/register) Free practice: sat.org/practice 2013-14 Test Dates Test Regular Registration Deadline (postmark/submit by) October 5, 2013 SAT & Subject Tests September 6, 2013 November 2, 2013 SAT & Subject Tests October 3, 2013 December 7, 2013 SAT & Subject Tests November 8, 2013 January 25, 2014 SAT & Subject Tests December 27, 2013 March 8, 2014 SAT only February 7, 2013 May 3, 2014 SAT & Subject Tests April 4, 2014 June 7, 2014 SAT & Subject Tests May 9, 2014 ACT The State of Louisiana now requires that every school give the ACT to students in their junior year. We certainly recommend that you take it more than once (ACT allows up to 12 times to test!). Practice and familiarity help improve one’s score. Be sure to list the correct high school ACT/SAT codes in your registration materials so the school can obtain a copy of your scores. Included in the cost of the test is 4 submissions to colleges of your choice. SEND YOUR SCORES, even if this is your first time. This way you will be placed on mailing lists, and the colleges will know you are interested. Send to TOPS by using code 1595. Many colleges will only accept scores directly from ACT (ie. LSU), and it will cost you $14/score after testing. FEE WAIVERS AND FEE REDUCTIONS: Fee waivers and fee reductions are available with financial need. They can be obtained from the counselor. Fee waivers are granted to 11th and 12th grades for two administrations of the ACT, and one for the SAT1, SAT2. Students may also obtain fee waivers for some college admissions fees if they have received a waiver for the SAT1 or SAT2. GENERAL SUGGESTIONS 1. Neither books nor the web give all the sources. New financial aid sources are constantly appearing. Check with the Counseling Office. 2. Remember to meet all deadlines for submitting scholarship applications. Make sure all application materials are complete – transcript, test scores, letters of recommendation, picture, essay, etc. 3. In order for a university to process your scholarship application, you must first submit an admission application and be accepted by the university (many colleges’ admission application will also be their scholarship application). 4. Remember that parents’ business, social, and religious groups are good sources for scholarships. 5. Be sure to keep copies of any material that you submit. Make a file for each college applied to. 6. Submit federal aid forms (FAFSA) after January 1.( As soon as possible) You must use your parents’ previous income tax return; therefore, the federal aid forms will not be available online until after January 1. www.fafsa.ed.gov 7. For application forms or addresses, search the web and see your counselor. 8. If you are going to college, you must have an ACT or SAT score. You must have taken the test by October of your senior year for most colleges, or December for some, if you are going to apply for academic scholarships. Many colleges in other states require that you take the SAT1 and SAT2 9. Priority deadline for academic scholarships is December 1 for most colleges, LSU-Baton Rouge– November 15; January for ULL and Southeastern, October 1st for some private and out of state colleges. Federal Aid Forms (to qualify for TOPS, Pell Grants, Work Study, Loans) must be completed and received by June 30. Priority deadline is March 1. The earlier you are able to complete them after January 1, not before January 1, the better off you are. Missing the June 30 deadline will result in the loss of one semester of TOPS. Failure to file the FAFSA by July 30 will result in permanent loss of TOPS (see handout on filling out the FAFSA). 10. Tulane, as well as other private universities, require the CSS in addition to the FAFSA. Priority deadline is October 1. Tulane’s early action and free application deadline is November 1st. 11. Many private colleges provide application fee waivers respective to meeting early deadlines. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Check all of your courses taken during high school related to college entrance requirements at specific colleges. Be aware of your requirements. You should know what you have taken and passed. If there are ANY questions, ask one of the counselors to check for you. In requesting that a letter of recommendation be written for you by a teacher, counselor or an administrator supply the Counseling Office with a résumé of high school activities as well as any honors or awards received at each grade level, 9-12. If you have served as an officer of a club or organization, please indicate this on the résumé. (A sample résumé is included in this booklet.)Also, include work experiences as well as community activities. Apply for any scholarship eligible to you. It might mean only a small amount of money, but it is good training for you. Get things in on time. There are deadlines for everything. Be sure to keep copies of any materials that you submit. Mail gets lost sometimes, both snail mail and electronic. You do not want to start over on forms that may have taken hours to complete. Register to take the ACT or SAT if you do not already have an acceptable score on file in the Counseling Office and plan to attend college. Fee waiver forms are available (two total during the junior and senior years) if you receive free or reduced lunch. Other circumstances as well. See the counselor. Complete and file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after January 1. Even if you feel that your family income is too high to qualify, you must file the FAFSA to be eligible for loans, work study programs, and TOPS. Send a copy of your current transcript to private universities and out of state colleges (Transcripts will be automatically sent to public universities in Louisiana). A copy of your ACT/SAT scores with every college application as well as scholarship applications to both the university as well as private applications helps also. Listen to announcements regarding new scholarship information. Supply the Counseling Office with a copy of every scholarship offer that you receive. We need to know when you begin to accept these scholarships in order to keep up with information that local people are asking about you. Every college must receive a final transcript to complete your admissions process. Prior to May of your senior year, check to see if your shot record is up-to-date. As part of the college or university admissions application, you will be asked to complete a proof of immunizations form. If you need any shots to complete you record, do not wait until the last minute to get the required immunizations. You will not be able to enter college in August without proper immunizations. Young men 18 or older must register with the Selective Service. THE COLLEGE APPLICATION AND LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION Most, if not all, applications are online. You will find them on the college’s website, normally under Admissions. Many colleges will have an APPLY HERE link! Early applicants are often thought to be more interested and may get special consideration. Check with each school. Messy applications are never impressive. Apply online whenever possible. Type if you cannot apply on line. If your personality or talent can be underscored by a snapshot, send it. (Private schools especially) If you believe your application can be positively supported by an interview, schedule one. It is extremely rare that a student would be denied admission based on what could be considered a “bad interview”. Check admission requirements. Use your school counselors. They can be of tremendous help. Please remember that your teachers, counselors, and administrators see you on campus (many times off campus) and notice your behavior toward them and your peers. They may be able to evaluate you as an outstanding student ACADEMICALLY, but you will want them to rate you highly based on your CHARACTER and ATTITUDE, both in the classroom and out. When asking for letters of recommendation, allow teachers/administrators/counselors/employers at least 1 week’s notice, preferably 2, to write a good one. Don’t forget to include your resume’. If you are applying to colleges out of state, the Common Application website is very helpful, having over 500 college members. The schools in Louisiana that use the common app are Centenary, Loyola, UNO, and Xavier University. Go to www.commonapp.org and see if your colleges are members. This can be a one-stop shop, allowing your counselor, teachers, and other recommenders the availability of posting materials once, especially if you are applying to many colleges. Two valuable references: Greenes' Guide to Educational Planning:The Public Ivies, and A is for Admission: The Insider’s Guide to Getting into the Ivy League and Other Top Colleges by Michele Hernandez. HINTS ON PREPARING FOR AND CHOOSING A COLLEGE As you begin to prepare for college, you may want to consider these issues: Students who have challenged themselves in high school tend to perform better in college. Competitive private and state universities typically expect students to enroll in Honors, Dual Enrollment, and Advanced Placement courses. Contrary to popular belief, students are not penalized for less than stellar performances in more difficult courses. Spend vacations exploring special interests and hobbies. Be a visible contributor in your school, church/temple, synagogue, mosque, job, or community. Colleges appreciate students who take learning beyond academics (Plus it makes you a more interesting person!). Read voraciously! It builds your vocabulary and may increase your performance on standardized tests. Early in the process, the entire family should discuss the role of finances in selecting a college. Do not, however, dismiss a college solely based on perceived cost because merit and need-based awards can defray expenses for your family. On Choosing a College… Know yourself. What type of college/school will you fit best? Where will you work at your maximum potential without undue stress? Examine your academic record and personal profile. Will they limit you in any way? Using insight from school counselors, parents, and other sources, select a group of schools that fit your needs and goals. Sign up for contact information at colleges that interest you. Take a virtual tour; check out academics, student life, financial aid and cost, etc. Make note of requirements. Notice deadlines. Check admission requirements. Eliminate colleges that do not meet your goals or have a mission/environment that does not “fit” your needs. Earnestly try to visit every campus in which you have a strong interest. Be prepared to ask students and interviewer’s questions about the colleges’ programs, environment, mindsets, and anything else that could affect you. After visiting/virtual tours and gathering information, narrow your list down to about five schools. This will make choosing a college easier in the long run. Include “dream” and “safety” schools on your final list. After you have received admission to your school(s), ask: o Where will I get the best education? o Is the institution affordable (including yearly tuition increases, transportation, clothing, etc.) By the deadline, place your deposit to hold a position in the freshman class. Important: Hundreds of private colleges share the mutual names of students who have placed deposits at their schools. If you “double deposit”, you run the risk of being denied at both colleges. This is not the case for public universities. On “the Application” o Missing a deadline can cost you admission, scholarships, loss of a dorm room, or all of the above. Be sure to know dates and procedures for each school (Housing applications are separate and require deposits). WRITING YOUR COLLEGE ESSAY Purpose of the Essay The college essay is extremely important for two major reasons: 1. It enables the college admissions office to evaluate your communication skills. Through your essay the college can assess the clarity of your thinking and your ability to convey your thoughts in written form. 2. It enables the admissions office to learn more about you as a person, beyond what grades and ACT test scores can convey. A well-written essay can speak worlds about your attitudes, feelings, personal qualities, imagination, and creativity. For the admissions staff, it adds another important piece to the puzzle because it distinguishes you as an individual, different from any other student who is applying. Choosing a Topic The choice of a topic is frequently not an issue, because many colleges and universities will either give you a topic to write about or present several rather specific topics from which you must choose. Other colleges may simply “suggest” broad general topics or give you total freedom to write about something that interests or concerns you. Regardless of whether you must respond to a prescribed topic or come up with one of your own, here are a few general hints about the most effective way to approach your topic: --Narrow your topic and try to be as specific and illustrative as possible. --The easiest topic to write about is you. No one knows more about you than you. Since one important purpose of the essay is self-revelation, it is no place to be shy or modest, although you should not exaggerate. If you choose to write about yourself, remember that minor incidents and facts are often the most revealing of character and outlook. --Do not be afraid to write about something you think is a little different. A unique topic or approach is often refreshing to a college admissions officer who has been reading applications all day. Further, an unusual or off-beat essay is an excellent way to show your creativity. Preparing to Write Before actually sitting down to write a first draft of your essay, spend some time organizing your thoughts. Develop a framework for your essay so it will have a smooth and logical progression from one idea or incident to the next. Consider your purpose in writing, what you want to convey, and the tone that you think is the most appropriate for the topic. Decide on a style that is comfortable for you, not one that you think the college admissions committee prefers. Finally, remember that organizing your thoughts and deciding on a framework does not mean you must be overly rigid at the start; leave room for flexibility and creativity as you actually begin writing. Do’s --Do think “small” and write about something that you know about. --Do reveal yourself in writing. --Do show rather than tell. By giving examples and illustrating your topic, you help bring it to life. --Do write in your own “voice” and style. Don’ts --Don’t write what you think others want to read. --Don’t exaggerate or write to impress. --Don’t use a flowery, inflated, or pretentious style. --Don’t neglect the technical part of your essay (grammar, spelling, sentence structure.) --Don’t ramble—say what you have to say and conclude. Your college essay, along with your high school record, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement, will provide the basis upon which the college makes its admissions decision. A thoughtful, well-written essay can affect that final decision in a very positive way. Keep this in mind and take full advantage of the opportunity which the college essay affords you. Mary Jane Doe School Address: 112 Smith Street Smallville, USA 00000 SS# 555-555-5555 Education Smallville High School G.P.A. 3.9, Senior Longville High School, 1996-1999 G.P.A. 4.0 Present Address: 123 Calenondia Street Bigville, USA 00000 (555)-555-5555 Honors/Awards Years Involved Club/Activity Bronze Metal, State Latin Competition Mississippi School for Women, Scholarship Recipient 2nd Chair, District Honor Orchestra Solo Ensemble, Viola, Superior Rating All American Cheerleader All Star Cheerleader Senior Beta Club Key Club Varsity Letterman, Cheerleader Varsity Letterman, Track Varsity Letterman, Soccer 11th 11th 9th & 10th 10th 10th & 11th 10th 10th, 11th, & 12th 10th, 11th, &12th 10th 9th 10th Junior Classical League Pre-Enrichment College Program Rapides Symphony, Longville H.S. Rapides Symphony, Longville H.S. National Cheerleading Association American Cheerleading Assn. National Beta Club National Key Club, Rotary Club Longville High School Longville High School Longville High School 9th 10th 10th 12th 12th Longville High School School Rep., Longville H.S. School Rep., Longville H.S. Smallville High School Smallville High School 11th 9th & 10th 9th 9th, 10th, 11th, & 12th 9th & 10th Smallville High School Longville High School Longville High School Longville High School Rapides Area Soccer Association 8 years Longville High, Star Dance Studio, 5 years 3 years Tumbling Etc. Bigville/ Iceville 4 years 2 years Life Guard, Clerk, Swim Teacher Aide Life Guard Leadership Student Council Representative Hugh O’Brien Leadership Rotary Youth Leadership Seminar Friends to Friends, Committee Chairperson Latin Club, Secretary Activities Habitat for Humanity Cheerleading, Varsity & Junior Varsity Track, Varsity Soccer, Varsity & Junior Varsity Recreational Soccer Special Interest Dance Cenla Academy Gymnastics Girl Scouts Employment Louisiana State Purple Hill Pool TOPS APPLICATIONS PELL GRANT APPLICATIONS 1) Go to www.pin.ed.gov and set up a pin number to file electronically. You will need to provide your social security number as well as other basic information (date of birth, address, etc) 2) Have one of your parents/guardians go to www.pin.ed.gov and set up a pin number to file electronically. They will also need to provide their social and other basic information 3) Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov to begin the application process. Much information is needed there, including the above, and: _____Student driver’s license _____Student Alien Registration Card (if not a US resident) Student and Parent will need, if applicable: ______Social Security numbers _____2013 W-2 Forms and other records of money earned _____2013 federal income tax form (even if not completed) _____Records of untaxed income _____Current bank statements _____Real estate records (ie. business, farm, and other) _____Records of stocks, bonds, and other investments ***Deadline to file to receive money on time for fall of 2014 is June 30, 2014. However, many colleges have earlier deadlines, some as early as March 1, so check with the college you plan to attend. Also, every college has a financial aid department that can answer questions specific to you. FINANCIAL AID The best place to look is the specific college itself. Really explore. There is a wealth of information on all of the financial aid pages of all colleges. Some web sites to consider are: a. www.geauxtocollege.la.gov b. www.collegeboard.org c. www.engineeringdegree.com/Scholarships d. www.fastweb.com e. www.gmsp.org f. www.scholarshipfoehispanics.com g. www.freshinfo.com h. LAConnect i. www.horatioalger.com/scholarships j. http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nextstep/lela_custompub2013/ k. www.lacrao.org SCHOLARSHIPS These are scholarships that have been available in past years. Please review! Updates will be made via a bulletin and announcements throughout the year. AAAA Scholarship, Grant, and Loan Program- is a corporation established to render financial assistance for the college-level education of members of the Army Aviation Association of America, Inc. (AAAA), and the spouses, unmarried siblings, unmarried children, and unmarried grandchildren of current and deceased AAAA members. Deadline – May 1. AES Engineers- is committed to continuing its support of higher education by providing scholarships for deserving students. Explore at www.aesengineers.com/scholarships.htm. Scholarship is worth $500 and will be given out based on character instead of GPA. Deadline – October 6. American Chemical Society Minority Scholars Program – Scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit and financial need to African-American, Hispanic/Latina, American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Pacific Islander who are enrolled or planning to enroll in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering or chemically related fields. Students must complete a FAFSA form in addition to the application form. Deadline – February 15. American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship – Applicant must have between a 3.4 and 3.6 GPA, participate in school activities, be a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of a veteran, and must participate in the Americanism Program. Deadline – March 30. Associated Grocers Scholarship- Financial need, scholarship availability, and character are considered. Deadline- March. Ayn Rand Institute Scholarship Essay Contest – Essay contest for juniors and seniors based on Ayn Rand’s novel, The Fountainhead. First prize: $10, 000 cash award. Five second prizes: $2,000 cash awards. Ten third prizes: $1, 000 cash awards. There is also a contest for freshmen and sophomores based on Ayn Rand’s Anthem. First prize: $2,000 cash award. Ten second prizes: $500 cash award. Twenty third prizes: $300 awards. Deadline- April 15. B. Davis Scholarship- $1000 scholarship. Any student who will be attending a college or university will be eligible. Visit www.scholarshipquesthelper.com to learn how to apply. Deadline – May 30. Baton Rouge Area Foundation- offers scholarships in several fields. Explore at www.braf.org. Best Buy @15 Scholarships- One Thousand $1,500 scholarships given. Open to grades 9-12 based on community service and academic achievement. Applications must be submitted online at www.BestBuy.com/scholarships. Deadline − February 15. For additional information or questions on the @15 program see www.at15.com. Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club- Essay Contest Book grant awarded. Write an essay about the Buffalo Soldiers and their accomplishments. Deadline – March. Burger King Scholars Program – Awards are $1,000 each and are aimed at assisting students who work part-time and still manage to excel academically. Students must maintain a 2.5 GPA and work part-time an average of 15 hours per week, maintain good conduct and attitude, and demonstrate financial need. Students do not have to be employed at a Burger King restaurant to be eligible for a scholarship. Only one student per school may be nominated. Deadline – early December. Carol Meyer Memorial Scholarship- Students must express interest in pursuing a career in mathematics or mathematics education. Deadline – April. Central Louisiana Press Club Scholarship – Scholarship of $2,000 or more to a senior who plans to make journalism a career. Application forms are available in the Guidance Office. Also include: cover letter explaining your interest in obtaining the scholarship, at least a 6 semester high school transcript, summary of extracurricular activities and work experience, and several letters of recommendation. Deadline – April 2. Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation – Applicants will be selected based on character, personal merit, leadership in school, civic, and other extracurricular activities, academic achievement, and motivation to serve and succeed in all endeavors. Deadline – October 31. Commitment to Agriculture Scholarship Program – To receive one of 100 scholarships, a student must pursue a career in agriculture and must be from a farm or ranch family that is actively engaged in production agriculture. Selection is based on leadership activities, work experience, academic record, and essay questions. Log onto www.farmsource.com or www.agfoundation.org to download an application. Deadline – early February. D. A. Anderson Scholarship - $1,000 award based on academic achievement (2.5 GPA minimum), extracurricular activities, community and church involvement, interview participation, and special emphasis on financial need. Deadline – May 5. David and Jeannie Price Scholarship- Valued at $3,000 per recipient. Selection is based on a minimum 3.5 GPA, extracurricular activities, work experience, good character, and pursing a degree in business at either Louisiana State University or the University of Missouri. Deadline – May 1. Devry Institute of Technology Scholarship - 120 awards for graduates with a total value of over $800,000. Each scholarship, valued at $12,000, covers the application fee and all tuition costs for any of the programs offered at a U.S. Devry Institute. Finalists will be selected on the basis of SAT or ACT test performance, high school academic record, extracurricular activities and an essay. Deadline – March 17. Dixie Boys Baseball Scholarships – Six $1,500 scholarships will be awarded to outstanding high school seniors who have participated in a franchised Dixie Boys Baseball, Inc. program. Recipients will be selected based on academic achievement and financial need. Athletic ability will not be a factor. Deadline – March 15. Duracell National Science Teachers Association – Awards sixteen scholarships and twenty-five cash prizes each year to young inventors in grades 9-12. Students must create and build a working device powered by Duracell batteries. The device must be portable, self contained, and able to operate independently of other supplementary equipment. Deadline – January 22. Education is Freedom Scholarship Program – Provides college scholarships to B-average students (3.0 GPA) who qualify for little or no financial aid. Scholarships, ranging from $500 to $5000 to cover tuition, books and fees, and are awarded in June. Students can get complete information, scholarship criteria, and applications at www.educationisfreedom.org. Elks National Foundation Scholarships – Awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. Based on scholarship, leadership, and financial need. Must have high ACT scores and be in the top 5% of graduating class. Deadline – December 31. Emory Scholars Program- For any student who would like to attend Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Scholarship pays for 75% to 100% of full tuition, room, board, and fees including the Study Abroad Program., visit: www.emory.edu/scholarsprogram. Deadline - May 10. Enterprise: Rent-A-Car Scholars Program- For students considering application to Washington University in St. Louis. Scholarship goes to 30-40 students. Students who apply for freshman admission to Washington University can apply to the Ervin Scholars Program and will be considered for the Rent-A-Car Scholars Program. See www.admissions.wustl.edu. Deadline – May 1. ESPN “Scholastic Sports America” – One-time grants of $5,000 each will be made to one male and one female at an institution of higher learning based on academic achievement and service to school and community. Not an athletic scholarship program; however, participation in interscholastic sports may be considered by the judges as part of an applicant’s service to school. For an application, write to ESPN Scholarship, ESPN Plaza, Bristol, CT 06010. Deadline – March 15. Fast Web Scholarships- an interesting website filled with thousands of scholarships personalized to fit you. Register online at: www.fastweb.com/highschool. FEEA Scholarship- is a scholarship for current civilian federal employees and their dependent family members. Must have at least a 3.0 GPA and must enroll in a two or four- year program. Deadline – March. First Freedom Student Competition- National Essay Contest for a chance to receive $3000, $1500, or $750 awards. Online registration is required by November 24 th and the essay deadline is November 29th. For essay topic please visit www.firstfreedom.org and click on the red button that says “First Freedom Student Competition.” Deadline – Nov 18. Foot Action/Hooked on Sports Scholarship Program – Must be a graduating senior planning to attend college. Four $10,000 scholarships and thirty $2,000 will be awarded. Deadline – February 15. Grocers Manufacturers Representatives Assn: ADMAX Scholarship- Valued at $7,000 per recipient over four years. Must be a senior in high school and reapply annually throughout college. Deadline – June 1. Gulf Coast Scholar Awards – Valued at $17,500 annually and $70,000 over four years. Requirements: admitted to Spring Hill College, minimum 26 ACT composite score, and minimum 3.5 GPA. Also, student must participate in eight semesters of undergraduate work, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and be involved in the college’s community service program. Horatio Alger Scholarship-This scholarship is for students who have succeeded in spite of very extenuating circumstances. Must have at least a 2.0 GPA. Adversity, integrity, and scholarship are highly considered. Visit Guidance for more information. Apply online at www.horatioalger.org/scholarship. Janice M. Scott Memorial Scholarship Fund, Inc- Six $2500 scholarships. Student must have 2.5 GPA or higher, planning to attend an accredited four-year college or university full-time, have demonstrated leadership abilities, and write a 500-1000 word essay on “What Do Freedom and Justice Mean” to him or her. Deadline – March 15. Junior League of Alexandria Scholarships for Seniors-Five $1000 Scholarship for female students who have at least a 2.5 GPA, and who exhibit a commitment to volunteerism. www.jlalex.com Deadline – Early April. John F Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest – www.jfklibrary.org Deadline Jan 6, 2014. Kettering University Scholarships- Awards financial aid packages totaling up to $65,000 over the 4 ½ year program. Cash can be used on tuition, road trips, or buying you all the new gadgets! Students at Kettering work in real jobs in their chosen field of study while they are still in school! For admission and more info visit www.admissions.kettering.edu. KFC Colonel’s Scholars Program- Student must have a 2.75 GPA or higher and planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Complete application online at www.kfcscholars.org. Application will be available December 1st- February 10th. (Must complete a FAFSA.) Knights of Columbus Scholarship – The Knights of Columbus Pro Deon and Pro Patria Scholarship is awarded to a senior whose father is a member of the Knights of Columbus. The student must also attend a Catholic college or university in the United States. www.kofc.org/scholarships Deadline – March 1. KOBELCO- Ten $1000 Scholarships awarded to students interested in construction. Visit www.ConstructMyFuture.com or, to participate in the construction challenge, visit www.constructionchallenge.org. Korean Society/Los Angeles – is an essay contest on Korea for high school students. The contest is offered to encourage all American high school students and teachers to learn more about the Republic of Korea. For an application, write to Essay Contest, The Korean Society/Los Angeles 5505 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036. Deadline – June 6. Lampard Scholarship- Available to the sibling, child, or grandchild of a member of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). $500 Scholarship. Deadline – July 31. If interested call (318)767-0947. Lela Scholarship Opportunities - 1. Holiday Art Contest – www.askLela.org Deadline – November 2 2. iPad Drawing – www.lela.org/ipad 3. Quarterly Online Scholarship Drawing – www.askLela.org Deadlines - September 30, December 31, 4. March 31, and June 30 Facebook Scholarship Drawing – www.facebook.com/askLela Deadlines - September 30, December 31, March 31, and June 30 Lions Camp Scholarship- Louisiana Lions Camp provides a job and a scholarship opportunity. See on the web: lalions@lionscamp.org.. Local Fraternities and Sororities- Will be announced as available. Louisiana AFL-CIO Scholarship – Three scholarships each amounting to $1,000 will be awarded to high school seniors who reside in the state and have a parent who is a member of a union affiliated with the Louisiana AFL-CIO. An essay on a specific topic must be completed as part of the scholarship application. Deadline – February 1. Louisiana Association of Conservation Districts Scholarship – One $1,600 scholarship (or 2 - $1000 scholarships) will be awarded to a student planning to major in the field of agriculture, natural resources, or environmental science. Selection criteria include financial need, academic standing, good character, record of leadership, public service, and a written essay. Deadline – early April. Louisiana Association of School Administrators of Federally Assisted Programs- Eight $500 awards to high school seniors planning to major in education. Deadline – April 3. Louisiana Bankers Education Council Scholarship- is a $1000 cash scholarship. Requirements: Parent of student or the student must be employed by a bank in Louisiana, 3.0 GPA, a minimum 20 ACT score, and planning to enroll with a major in business or banking related major. Deadline – February 28. Visit www.lba.org for more information. Louisiana Bar Foundation (LBF) Kids’ Chance Scholarship- Open to any student whose mother or father has been killed or permanently and totally disabled in an accident compensable under a state or federal Workers’ Compensation Act or law. (Hurt or Killed on the job) Deadline – February 28. See www.raisingthebar.org/ProgramsandProjects/KidsChanceProgram.asp. Louisiana Burglar and Fire Alarm Association Youth Scholarship Program – Award for students who have parents are legal guardians who are full-time active duty employees of a police or fire department. Applications are available from the Louisiana Burglar and Fire Alarm Association at (337)886-7282 or online at gwen@bfaa.org. Deadline – early March. Louisiana High School Athletic Association Scholarship Program – Information on LHSAA can be found on the website at www.lhsaa.org. Visit the “Memos/Bulletins” section to download application. Deadline – early May. Louisiana High School Coaches Association Scholarships – Four $1,000 awards given to graduates of present and past LHSCA members. Send transcript, admission acceptance from an accredited college, and high scores on ACT or SAT. www.lhsaa.org Deadline – April 30. Louisiana Life Safety and Security Association Youth Scholarship- Available to children of active duty Law Enforcement or Fire Service Personnel. Website www.llssa.org. Deadline – March. (LMSA) Louisiana Middle School Association Scholarship- $1000 scholarship for graduating seniors planning to pursue a career in education. Deadline – March 8. Visit www.lmsaonline.org. Louisiana Municipal Clerk’s Association Scholarship – Applicant must be a graduating senior, have at least a 3.0 GPA, ACT score of at least 21, and submit an essay on “Why I Should Consider a Career in Government.” Deadline – mid February. Louisiana Pest Management Association- Minimum 3.0 GPA and ACT 23. Must be a science major. Louisiana Rural Water Association Scholarship – Scholarship for students who reside on a water system that is a member of the LRWA and are interested in pursuing a career in the water or wastewater field or concerned with environmental issues. Deadline – early March. See www.lrwa.org Louisiana School Boards Association Scholarship – Applicant must have at least a 3.0 GPA, an ACT composite of 19, and must major in education at a Louisiana university. Deadline – mid April. Louisiana Society of Professional Surveyors Education Foundation - $1,000 award. Applicant must be a high school senior, a Louisiana resident, and must plan to pursue a career in surveying or a related field. Deadline – March 31. Louisiana Tuition Opportunity Program (TOPS) – This program is comprised of an opportunity award, a performance award, an honors award, and a teacher award. Each of these different scholarship programs has specific eligibility requirements. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student AID (FAFSA) in order to apply for these programs. Apply after January 1 at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Louisiana Young Bankers Scholarship – One scholarship available to a senior pursuing a major in business or a related field. Applicants must have an ACT score of 21 or higher, a 3.0 GPA, and plan to enroll in a Louisiana college or university. Deadline – January 31. LSUA Leadership Scholarship Challenge Program- Available to students who are leaders in their school or community. Deadline – January. Mildred D. Higgins High School Scholarship Application – http://www.lasfaa.org/docs/toc_students.htm. applications available in April. Deadline April 30. National Association of University Women Scholarship – Graduating seniors planning to enroll at a college or university are eligible to apply. Deadline – April 20. National DAR Scholarship- www.dar.org. Deadline – Feb 15. National Society Daughters of the American Revolution – Two scholarships are available to high school seniors. One is awarded to a high school senior planning to major in American History and the second is awarded to a high school senior whose mother is currently a member of NSDAR. Deadline – February 15. Oglethorpe Scholarship Competition – Five full scholarships will be awarded to students with superior academic records and leadership strengths in extracurricular or community activities. Recipients will be selected based on a competition held at Oglethorpe University after initial screening by the James Edward Oglethorpe Scholarship Committee. For information, write: Oglethorpe University, 4484 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta, Georgia 30319-2797 or call (404)233-6864. Deadline – December 9. Pell Grants- Financial aid based on need (must file FAFSA www.fafsa.ed.gov) Deadline – June 30. Presidential Freedom Scholarship- Scholarship for students who have completed at least 100 hours of community service. http://www.nationalservice.gov/scholarships Deadline – May 12 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards- All state-level winners will receive $1000 awards and an all expense paid trip to Washington D.C. with a parent, and then 10 top winners will receive an additional $5000 plus crystal trophies and a $5000 grant for the charity of their choice. Student must be a volunteer or participate in community service. To apply visit www.prudential.com/spirit. Follow instructions, type in access key: spirit, print application get parents’ signature, and turn in to the Counselor’s office. Deadline – Nov 5. R. C. Easley National Scholarship Awards – Scholarships for seniors who have exhibited outstanding academic excellence and personal integrity. Funds are available for one four-year scholarship of $25,000, one four-year scholarship of $10,000, one four-year scholarship of $5,000, and ten cash awards of $250. For more information, write to: National Academy of American Scholars, Attention: Scholarship Committee, 21343 Cold Spring Lane #600, Diamond Bar, CA 91765-3443. You must send $1.00 for handling fee with request. Deadline – February 1. Rapides Parish Fair Association Scholarship Program – Awarded to a graduate from Rapides Parish who plans to major in Agriculture, Home Economics, or a related field. An additional $600 is available if the recipient attends LSUA. $250 to be awarded per semester for two years. Must have 2.6+ GPA, 18+ ACT. www.lsuagcenter.com/parish and search scholarships. Deadline – May 5. Rockefeller Wildlife Scholarship - $1,000 awards to be granted to students majoring in Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, or Marine Science. Must have a 2.5+ GPA, two letters of recommendation, and plan to attend a Louisiana university. Students must complete the Federal Financial Aid Form to apply. Deadline – April 1. Ruby J. Darensbourg Cook Memorial Scholarship- Valued at $4,000 per recipient over four years. It is directed towards graduating high school seniors who plan on majoring in education at an accredited Louisiana college or university. Criteria: enrollment in a Louisiana college or university, scholarship ability, good character, and academic standing. Deadline – May 1. SAE Engineering Scholarship Program – The SAE scholarships are offered to students interested in the study of engineering and the related sciences. Applicants must meet minimum requirements with regard to GPA, SAT/ACT scores as outlined in the individual requirements of each scholarship. Students are encouraged to retrieve the application and information online at www.sae.org/students/engschlr.hrm. Deadline – early December. Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award – Recognizes outstanding scholar athletes based on academic performances, athletic excellence, leadership and community service. Each scholar athlete receives a $7500 college scholarship, an invitation to attend an awards weekend at the Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex, and the opportunity to be pictured in national publications. Students are encouraged to apply online at www.bodybymilk.com. Deadline – March 6. Scholarships.com – Free scholarship search database and financial aid resource website. Contains tips on the FAFSA, how to win and not to win scholarships, scholarship scams, and other financial aid tips. Scholarships for Military Children- Student must have a 3.0 GPA. Download application via website at www.militaryscholar.org/apply/apply.shtml. Shell Minority Scholarship Program- Must attend a selected college and pursues a major in geology, physics, or engineering. Deadline – March 1. . Smart Start Scholarship- Award includes a tuition scholarship for 4 years, yearly book stipend, and eligibility for a paid internship at Chase Bank. Requirements: African American Students who attend high school with a minimum “B” average, ACT of 19, plan to attend a four-year LA college, and plan to major in any discipline EXCEPT life sciences or fine arts. For more info and application, visit: www.jpmorgan.com/pages/smartstart. Deadline − February 1. Society of Automotive Engineers Scholarship Program – SAE offers a number of scholarships to qualified students who are interested in the study of engineering and other sciences. A student must enroll in an accredited engineering program, have a 3.5+ cumulative GPA, and high ACT/SAT scores. Deadline – December 2. Southeastern Louisiana University Excel Leadership Scholarship- $500 scholarship given each semester. Must have a 2.5 GPA and have proven leadership in school. EXPECTED TO JOIN A STUDENT ORGANIZATION ON THE COLLEGE CAMPUS AND BECOME AN ACTIVE CAMPUS MEMBER! Spring Hill College: Gulf Coast Scholars- Must have 3.5 GPA, 26 ACT, and attend a high school in LA. Winner receives a four year scholarship of $17,500 annually (total of $70,000) Must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout college to continue receiving the scholarship. Call 1-800-742-6704 or visit www.shc.edu if interested. Springhill Women at Work Scholarship – Award of $500 will be given based on church activities, school attendance, academic performance (minimum 2.0 GPA), financial need, and written essay. Deadline – mid April. Stephen W. Cavanaugh Scholarship- Valued at $8,000 to each recipient, $1,000 per semester. The purpose is to provide scholarships to deserving Louisiana students who are majoring in an insurance-related field at a Louisiana university or college. Selection based on extracurricular involvement, community and public service, leadership potential, and satisfactory academic standing. Deadline – July 1. Student Media Scholarships- $1000 scholarship restricted to first-time freshman who will be enrolled full-time at Northwestern State University for the upcoming academic year. First preference is given to students declaring a major in journalism. T.H. Harris Scholarship Program – Must attend a Louisiana public university, have a 3.0+ GPA, and send seven semester transcript and two letters of recommendation. Students must complete the ACT-Family Financial Statement to apply. Deadline – May 30 (It is recommended that you apply by January 31) Times Journalism Scholarship – seniors planning to enroll in a college or university and major in journalism are eligible to apply. Students must complete the application form, have a letter of recommendation from a current teacher, and include two samples of their writing. Deadline – March 22. Toyota Community Scholars Program Scholarship – Ten renewable scholarships over a four year period will be awarded to high school seniors who rank in the top 10% of their senior class, have at least a 3.0 GPA, are actively involved in a service project that has a positive impact on school or community, and plan to enter a four-year college upon graduation. Deadline – December 1. Tylenol Scholarship- Applications available wherever Tylenol is sold. Deadline – April 15. University of Louisiana at Lafayette Scholarships- Must have a 3.0 GPA and a 23 ACT. Five scholarships ranging from $8000-$1000. http://admissions.louisiana.edu/scholarships/ for more information. United States Junior Chamber International Senate Foundation Scholarship Program – Grants of $1000 awarded for use in the first year of full-time study. Application includes family financial statement, student leadership positions and offices, memberships in clubs and organizations, honors and awards, employment experience, references, personal statement, and academic transcript. Deadline – early January. USA Today Scholarship - $2,500 is awarded to the winner of the USA Today academic team. Deadline – February 22. Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program – Must write and record a 3-5 minute essay on a designated topic. From $1,000 to $14,000 is awarded annually by the VFW. Deadline – November 1. Wendy’s High School Heisman- for application go online to www.wendysheisman.com. Requirements: Female or Male students with a “B” grade point average (3.0) and participate in any of the 32 listed sports. Deadline – October 2. Two winners also receive Wendy’s Gift cards and a jacket patch. WRFK Scholarship in Broadcast Journalism- $1,000 scholarship for full-time college students majoring in Mass Communications/Broadcasting at either Louisiana State University or Southern University. Scholarship is based on financial need, minimum 3.0 GPA, and creativity. Contact Rebecca Noecker at (225)381-7084. Deadline – June . While we worked diligently to update these scholarships, some may have been discontinued. Other scholarships will be announced as well as posted on the website when received in the counseling office. Students should check once a week on school websites, bulletin boards, etc.…