This type of postsecondary school typically offers 2-year associate degrees and is a more affordable starting point for many students.
What is a community college?
Before applying to colleges, this is the first step you should take to understand your interests and goals.
What is researching colleges or exploring career options?
These schools provide specialized training for careers like cosmetology, welding, or HVAC, and often lead to certification or licensure.
What is a trade school or vocational school?
This type of financial aid must be paid back with interest, unlike scholarships or grants.
What is a student loan?
This document summarizes your academic performance in high school and is required by most colleges during the application process.
What is a high school transcript?
This term refers to colleges and universities that were established before 1964 to primarily serve the African American community.
What are Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)?
This type of financial aid does not have to be repaid and is often awarded based on academic achievement, special talents, or financial need.
What is a scholarship?
This is the term for a student’s planned course schedule in high school that ensures they meet all graduation and college admission requirements.
What is an academic or graduation plan?
This type of credential can be earned while still in high school and proves you have the skills to succeed in a specific career or industry—examples include CNA, Adobe Certified Professional, or OSHA 10.
What is an industry-recognized certification?
This type of institution offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, focuses heavily on research, and often has multiple colleges or departments within it.
What is a university?
This financial aid form opens each year and must be completed to qualify for federal grants, loans, and many scholarships—even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for aid.
What is the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?
This skill helps you understand and solve problems, make decisions, and adapt to new situations—key abilities for success in college and beyond.
What is critical thinking?