TIMELINE AND PROCESS
FOR SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID

The Process

It is recommended that you begin your private scholarship search twelve (12) to eighteen (18) months ahead of the time of need. You may be a prime candidate to receive a scholarship if:

Timeline for Scholarships and Financial Aid

Knowing the timeline is the key to your success. Time is wasted pursuing missed deadlines. Keep on track by conducting your search twelve (12) to eighteen (18) months ahead. Below you will find a timeline that may be helpful to you when pursuing financial aid or scholarships that you are eligible for. Remember, begin EARLY and be PREPARED!

HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR:

Fall -

• Think about what you want to major in.

• Meet with your high school counselor for guidance on where to begin your search and what scholarships are available through your high school that you may be eligible for.

• Contact colleges or universities you may be interested in for their catalog. Ask for a listing of what scholarships may be available to you if you attend.

Spring -

• Begin to keep a master file for all of your information. Keep copies of all the correspondence you send.

• If possible, make a visit to the college(s) you are interested in and, if possible, sit in on a class.

• Take the SAT or ACT. If the college asks for the Achievement Tests, take those as well.

• Develop a resume of high school activities and awards, and update as needed. It may be helpful to put this in a portfolio binder.

• Request admissions and financial aid forms from schools you intend to apply to.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR:

Fall -

• Check with your high school guidance counselor on any new scholarships available to seniors at your local high school. New scholarships may be available each year.

• Make sure you are taking the college-prep courses that meet your college's requirements.

• Take the SAT or ACT again. Most colleges will consider your highest score.

• Apply for scholarships and watch for deadlines!

• Begin to look at financial aid for your freshman year at college.

• Think about what you want to say in your college essay.

• Ask teachers to write letters of recommendation for you. The number required by each college is included in their admission materials.

Winter -

• Send your applications to the colleges where you are applying.

• File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other required forms. You can get this form from your high school guidance counselor or by calling 1-800-433-3243. Be sure to include both student and parent signatures and to list all of the colleges you are interested in applying to for financial aid.

• Attend financial aid workshops.

• Work with your parents to collect financial information. Submit financial aid applications as soon as possible after January 1. Financial aid is generally awarded on a first-come first-serve basis.

Spring -

• Decide what college you want to attend after receiving acceptance and financial aid information and decline offers received from other schools in writing.

• Sign the financial aid award letter and return it by the deadline indicated.

• Notify the financial aid office of any scholarships you will be receiving.

Summer -

• GRADUATION!!!

• College Orientation - you may be eligible to test out of some basic general education courses. Check with the college counselor regarding this. Testing out classes can save you time and money.

Late Summer / Early Fall -

• Time to turn over money to your college and start classes!

ACF scholarship and financial aid awards are available ONLY to New Mexico residents and to those meeting specific criteria. Application deadlines vary between March and July. Awards begin with the fall semester.

 

QUESTIONS? Call the Foundation Office at (505) 883-6240
or e-mail us at foundation@albuquerquefoundation.org