Paying for College 

College is expensive and understanding the various forms of financial aid available can go along way to alleviate any stress or uncertainty about the process.

There are two primary forms of aid available: need-based aid, which is based on a family's income and assets; and merit scholarships, which are generally based on the student's achievements.  Merit scholarships can be offered by the college or by outside agencies.

Need-Based Financial Aid

The most commonly required forms to apply for need-based Financial Aid are the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile (administered by The College Board).  Some colleges, however,  have institution-specific forms. Check the Financial Aid page of the colleges to which your son/daughter is applying to see what is required.

For more information about the FAFSA, click here.

For more information about the CSS Profile, click here.

For calculators to help determine if your family may qualify for need-based aid, click here.

College Merit Scholarships

The Columbus Academy posts all potential Scholarships in the Scholarship section of Naviance.  In addition, Ms. Berry keeps a notebook in the front office with hard copies of all scholarships that come through our office.  Seniors are encouraged to check this website frequently; to talk to their college counselors if they want to have colleges on their lists where merit scholarships may be possible; and to look at the colleges to which they are applying to see what they offer.