Step 1:
Decide if you want to go to college , trade school, technical school, or a community college. Formal college isn't for everyone but if you want to go, then you can. There is money other resources that are available to help you with school. Start preparing by making good grades, getting involved in school organizations or community organizations, and participate in community service. Most colleges look for well-rounded individuals, plus it could help you get a scholarship.
Step 2:
Talk to your guidance counselor, case manager, and/ or foster parents about what college you want to go to and find out what it takes to get into that school (like ACT/SAT scores, and GPA).
Step 3:
Study for and take ACT or SAT. Talk to your guidance counselor to find out how to register for the test and where and when the test will be given. The ACT is recommended since getting a score of 21 or more will qualify you for the Tennessee lottery scholarship
(link: http://www.tennessee.gov/tsac/)
Here are some tips if you are trying to get a scholarship and have a GED: http://www.tnscholardollars.org/GEDapplicant.htm .
Step 4:
Request applications from the schools that you are interested in. You can get the applications by going to the school website, calling the school, or by writing a letter to request the application. Make sure that you have the application in by the school’s deadline.
Step 5:
Apply for financial aid. (Link to scholarship, grant, fin aid page)
-Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid- (Link to FAFSA website). File after Jan. 1st but before March 2nd of your senior year of high school. It is better to mail your application as close to Jan. 1st as possible.
-Make copies of your applications because they could get lost in the mail.
-Apply for local scholarships in your community
-Apply for scholarships that the college or school offers
Step 6:
Go into college with the attitude that you are going to make it. The first year is the hardest because you have to adjust to college life and such things as sharing a dorm room, being independent and responsible for yourself, and learning how to study and manage your time wisely.
