Q&A with Scholarship Clearinghouse

Scholarship Clearinghouse is a program which assists college-bound students in finding and applying for college scholarships. JLM maintains a comprehensive and easy to use database of scholarships to assist students living in West Texas. We simplify the overwhelming application process by allowing each student to search for scholarships based on their specific needs, achievements and future plans. Applicants who register for the program will have access to workshops focusing on writing skills, college preparedness, and FAFSA/Scholarship/Grant procedures. Additionally, the committee awards a scholarship to exceptional students utilizing the program.

Q: What is the difference between scholarships, grants, and loans?

A: Scholarships are primarily awarded for academic merit and accomplishments, such as volunteer work, but there are many need-based scholarships available as well.  Grants can come from the state or federal government, from the college you attend, or privately funded.  Scholarships and grants do not have to be repaid.  Student loans can be taken out when scholarships and grants will not fully cover a student’s tuition.  Students who take out loans are required to repay those funds, but they generally do not have to be paid while you’re still in college.

Q: What is the FAFSA?

A: FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  Filing out the FAFSA is one of the first steps in the financial aid process and will determine the amount you can receive from student grants, work-study, and loans.  To find out more about the FAFSA and financial aid check out the following links here and here.

Q: Where do I find the FAFSA?

A: You can fill out your application at https://fafsa.ed.gov/.

Q: When should I fill out the FAFSA?A: Students are encouraged to fill out their FAFSA when applying for college.

Q: What if I am having trouble with determining a major or possible profession?A: There are several different tools students can use to help them determine a career path!  The Myers-Briggs Personality Test offers a free HumanMetrics test, which lists jobs fitting your personality, and it really works!  Take the test here.  Students can also use O*NET OnLine which has detailed descriptions of jobs, which include salary information, open availabilities, and education requirements.  O*NET OnLine can be found at http://www.onetonline.org/.

 Q: What if I am just not sure if college is right for me?

A: Check out this video to see why college is the WAY TO GO!

Q: How can I learn more about local scholarships?

A: The Junior League of Midland, Inc. supports local organizations and can help with the scholarship process. The links below are current scholarship/grant opportunities in the Midland area.

http://www.pbaf.org/

http://www.midland.edu/students/enrollment/scholarships.php

http://www.utpb.edu/admissions/scholarships

http://www.odessa.edu/dept/ia/index.htm