Scholarships/Financial Aid

College expense can be a daunting obstacle when planning for post secondary education.  In fall of 2011-2012, in-state tuition at the University of Chapel Hill was $7008 per semester.  Add to that, room and board expenses of $9470, and staggering book fees, and one easily understands the importance of scholarships. Applying for scholarships requires research, discipline in completing required forms, and attention to deadlines.  Most universities require parents to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as the first step in applying for scholarships and grants.  This form requires information from parents’ latest tax forms.  Parents of high school seniors are wise to submit tax returns expediently so that accurate information may be shared with desired post secondary institutions. Scholarships are generally classified according to academic merit, talent, or financial need.  Admissions/ Financial Aid officers review applications, review FAFSA and other financial reports, and then calculate the expected family contribution (EFC) to meet college costs. When EFC’s are low, students may be eligible for the aforementioned categories of scholarships or grants.
 
In the academic year 2010/2011, Cumberland County School students were awarded over $40,227,718.00 in financial aid.  Students in this pool report that they sought advice from their school counselor, paid close attention to school scholarship newsletters, investigated legitimate Websites, and then disciplined themselves to meet set deadlines.

For your convenience, several helpful links to scholarship information are provided below.  Best of luck in your search for financial aid!

Scholarships

• North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority Update – Fall 2011
• College Board Scholarship Search
• College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC)
• Cumberland Community Foundation, Inc. (Local Scholarships)
• Cumberland County Schools Online Scholarship Guide
• Education Planner
• National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
• NCAA Eligibility Center
• NCAA Freshmen Eligibility Standards Quick Reference Sheet
• North Carolina Teaching Fellows

Financial Aid Information