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There are thousands of college and universities for you to explore and lots of them might feel perfect. When considering colleges, it's important for you to consider your academic, financial, and personal preferences - what are your "deal breakers" and where are you willing to compromise? Your research and investigation should considering the following:
Academic Fit
Social Fit
Financial Fit
Check out the City Schools Youtube Channel and CCR playlist for videos discussing college match and fit!
There are over 2,000 colleges and universities in the United States! It's important to choose the one that is right for you. Once a balanced college list has been established, students can begin applying through a variety of different applications, including:
Or students can also apply sometimes directly using a college's specific application listed on their website. We encourage students and families to utilize Naviance, the City Schools Navigator Center, and our professional school counselors for direct support.
One of the MOST important steps in the college application process is applying for financial aid. There are a few main sources to get funding for college:
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an application that students and families use to apply for federal grants and federal student loans. The government requires students to submit an application each year they intend to be enrolled in college. Complete the following steps to successfully complete a FAFSA.
1) Apply for an FSA ID
2) Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using prior-prior year taxes.
3) Follow up with each college the student applied to by checking a portal or calling the college's financial aid office to confirm everything was processed successfully or if you were selected for a process called verification.
Student & Families may contact their professional school counselor or the City Schools Navigator Center with questions.
The State of Maryland offers generous need-based funding for which students can apply. Baltimore City students are encouraged to create an MDCAPS account with the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) to apply for the following grants and scholarships:
Some private and often well-endowed colleges are also willing to reach into their own bank account and give students needs-based financial aid. This is often referred to as need-based institutional aid. These colleges typically require an additional form called the CSS profile that complements what is already on the FAFSA. The CSS profile is used to offer students additional need-based financial aid. Schools missing from this list may still offer merit-based scholarships.
Close the gap for a lot of students by offering additional one-time or reoccurring scholarships. Some of our favorite search engines and lists are below.