(PD Title No. CCTI303)
Module Three: Financial Aid and College Applications
Proficiency Level: Mastery
Subject(s):Guidance
Grade(s): 9,10,11,12,CC,Other
Hours: 20.00

Description:This module includes four sessions, which address financial literacy, financial aid, completing the FAFSA and preparing college applications.  Parents and students need assistance in navigating the complexities of financial aid and the college admission process.  The school counselor in collaboration with principals and teachers can guide parents and students through these processes to increase student access to college and postsecondary training.  This module focuses on the counselor’s role in counseling parents and students in accessing financial aid and successful preparation and application for college admission.

The term “college” is used throughout this course to refer to any postsecondary education or training in accordance with the NCAN (http://www.collegeaccess.org/NCAN/) definition: “College” … refers to a Pell-eligible educational institution beyond the high school level, including those that offer apprenticeship programs, certificates, and associate and/or bachelor degree programs.  

Pre-requisites: This course was developed through a partnership between CTE, SREB, EDC, and Elearning-Alabama. Participants are expected to have regular access to computers, and proficiency with email and current web-browsers.
Objectives: During this module, counselors will learn to:
• prepare students from high-need areas and from families without prior college access for college application and success
• help parents and students overcome barriers to college access and success
• Communicate the intricacies of financial aid, including terminology, to parents and students
• assist students and their parents in completing the FAFSA
• help parents and students understand the total cost of college as well as the variety of financial aid available to them
• collaborate with teachers and parents to prepare students for college admission tests
• help eligible students apply for waivers for admission tests and college application fees