U.S. Universities

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Aid comes from several different pots, each with its own eligibility test and its own form. Knowing which ones apply to you decides what you need to file, and when.

Types of aid

Where the money comes from

Need-Based Aid

Financial assistance based on your family's financial situation

Eligibility: Determined by FAFSA/CSS Profile
How to apply: Complete FAFSA (Oct 1) and CSS Profile

Merit Scholarships

Awards based on academic achievement, talents, or leadership

Eligibility: Strong GPA, test scores, extracurriculars
How to apply: Often automatic with admission; some require separate applications

Athletic Scholarships

Financial aid for student-athletes

Eligibility: Competitive sports performance
How to apply: Register with NCAA Eligibility Center; contact coaches

Work-Study

Part-time employment to help pay for college expenses

Eligibility: Need-based; included in financial aid package
How to apply: Indicate interest on FAFSA

Scholarships

Search tips

Start searching early - many deadlines are in fall of senior year
Apply to local scholarships - less competition than national ones
Check your target colleges for institutional scholarships
Use reputable scholarship search engines (Fastweb, Scholarships.com, Cappex)
Watch out for scholarship scams - never pay to apply
Tailor each application to the specific scholarship criteria
Meet all deadlines and follow application instructions carefully

All guide sections

Get Started

Need help with your application?

Our advisors work with students across Metro Vancouver and online to build a plan around their goals, timeline and target schools.

Book a Free Consultation