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Show Counselor says college-bound students should study financial aid sources early by Nan Chalat College tuition rates have been increasing 10 to 20 percent a year, said Park City High School counselor Rich White. He suggests college-bound college-bound students investigate a variety of financial aid sources as early as possible. "This goes for juniors and sophomores as well. There is nothing wrong with starting early," he said Financial aid for students comes from four major sources, White said: scholarships, which are primarily based on merit; federal grants; work-release programs offered by colleges; and student loans at special low-interest rates. Scholarships and grants are preferable, of course, to loans because they do not have to be paid back. While most scholarships are based on high grade-point average (3.5 or better) or noteworthy achievement in a particular field, others may be awarded to students who demonstrate a financial need, White said. He added that some fraternal and religious groups also offer student scholarships to their members. "But just because a student doesn't qualify for a scholarship doesn't mean he has dropped the ball," he said. White has application forms tor federal grants that offer varying amounts of tuition assistance, he said, adding, "Time is of the essence. I urge students to pick up the necessary Financial Aid Forms now." If a student anticipates needing additional funds he can apply for a work-release program as soon as he is accepted to a school. "Most colleges offer a work-release work-release program through their Imanciai aid otlices," said White. The programs typically hire students for approximately 20 hours per week, White said. " Applying for student loans may be a last choice, but White said they are often offered at reduced interest rates and do not have to be paid back until a student graduates or stops attending school. "The important thing is for students to be aware of their needs and to act accordingly. I have found that many students aren't aware that they will need financial aid until it is too late." |