There are many scholarships available to you and it sometimes gets confusing to know where to start. Please follow the steps below when searching for scholarships:

1) Search the college websites where you are interested in attending college. Typically you can search under Financial Aid or Scholarships. Many of these scholarships are online and you can usually begin applying in November. Don’t forget to check on first generation scholarships (if neither parent has a bachelor’s degree). The majority of scholarship money comes directly from the college.

2) Check out scholarships we have compiled on Naviance. Put in your Pinnacle number to get registered and see your counselor if you have problems registering. This is the BEST PLACE to find scholarships listed by month and deadline date. Additional information about these scholarships can be found in the College and Career Center.

3) Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form as soon as possible after January 1 of senior year. To do this, first go online and get your PIN # at http://www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp. You will use this same PIN every year when you fill out the FAFSA. Then, make sure your parents have completed their tax returns. Once they have done this you can go online to http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. In order to be eligible for some scholarships, you must fill out the FAFSA. The FAFSA is the easiest way to be considered for some college specific scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans.

4) Fill out the local scholarship packet available in the Career Center on January 15. Return your completed application by February 15.

5) Research the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

6) Use different scholarship websites search engines.

7) Check with your employer and your parent’s employer.

8) Ask any clubs or organizations in which you are involved (Boy Scouts, 4-H, etc).

What is the Boettcher Scholarship program?

The Boettcher Foundation Scholarships are offered “to keep the best and brightest in Colorado by awarding a four-year scholarship to any college or university in the state.” Scholarships pay tuition, fees, books, and a stipend for room and board.

· Applicants must meet these requirements to be considered:
· Rank in the top 5% of the graduating class
· Score a composite 1200 on the SAT or 27 on the ACT
· Be a U.S. and Colorado citizen domiciled in Colorado during the junior and senior years of high school

· Selection is based on:
· Superior Scholastic Ability
· Evidence of Potential Leadership
· Service to Community and School
· Outstanding Character

All application materials are due to Mrs. Mulnix in October. Finalists will be interviewed in January. See your counselor or Mrs. Mulnix in the College and Career Center for additional information.

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