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EIF Scholars Resources

Hello, EIF Scholars! Below you will find some helpful resources for preparing for college this fall, based on the feedback we received in the Summer Check-In Survey.

First things first … Now that you have begun a relationship with a particular college or university, they are the best source for advising on both financial aid and academics.

Financial Aid FAQs

Grants are typically need-based while scholarships may be need- or merit-based. These forms of financial aid do not require repayment. Loans will need to be paid back after graduating or leaving college. Work study is a federal program allowing students to work part-time to earn money for their education.

Every school has contact information on its website for the Office of Financial Aid, and they can assist you in finding the right person to talk to depending on what financial aid questions you have.

A financial aid advisor at your school will be able to walk you through the options they have available for grants, scholarships, loans, and work study. Every university is different, which is why the university’s Office of Financial Aid will be the experts for YOUR school.

For scholarships outside your university, the more specific you can be in your search, the better. Try doing a search via Google or X for freshman scholarships based on your ethnicity, gender, major, career interest, or any other specific interests you may have. The less people who are eligible for a particular scholarship, the greater your chances are of being awarded that scholarship.

Check out this guide from Forbes for who is eligible and how to apply for student unemployment assistance.

Employment in College

Your university will provide several resources for help in finding employment in your school’s city while in college.

For work study programs, the Office of Financial Aid can assist you with options.

For part-time jobs and internships, the Career Center on your university campus can assist you.

Academic Advising/Registering for Classes

Every school has contact information on its website for academic advising. If you aren’t sure who your advisor is, you can call or email the advising center and they will assist you. Your advisor will help ensure you are enrolled in the correct classes both for core required classes and for your major, and they can give tips on making the best schedule for you.

You will register for your first semester of classes at orientation. If you have not signed up for orientation, your college/university’s website will have information on orientation dates and a link to register.

Transition to College

Starting college is a very big life change for most students. Below you will find a helpful video series meant to help prepare students for the transition. Topics include:

Other Resources

Of course, your EIF Higher Education Advisor will always be here to help. If you have questions that your university resource is not able to answer, don’t hesitate to reach out to your advisor. You can schedule a virtual meeting with your school’s Higher Education Advisor.