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"Early decision" is when a student declares a first-choice college and requests that the college decide on acceptance early in the application process (November - January) and the student agrees to enroll if accepted. It is a legally binding agreement between the student and the college. This is different than "Early Action" where the student if accepted has until the regular admission deadline (usually by May 1st) to decide whether or not to attend.

"Early Action" means that a student who is accepted at a university has until the regular admission deadline (usually by May 1st) to decide whether or not to attend. This is different from "Early Decision", where a student declares a first-choice college and requests that the college decide on his or her acceptance early in the application process (November - January). If accepted, the student agrees to enroll. It is a legally binding agreement between the student and the college.

As opposed to "Early Action" or "Early Decision", Regular Admission is the most common option offered to students. In this instance, a deadline is set for applications and all notifications are sent out at the same time thereafter.

This is when the college accepts students who meet the academic requirements on a first-come, first-served basis until the freshman class is filled. After a application is received, a response is generally sent out in two to three weeks.

The Profile Report is a need-based analysis report. Many four-year private colleges and public universities require this report to be filed in addition to the FAFSA application. This form is mainly used by private schools to differentiate need among financial aid applicants. The Profile registration is a one page form available on the WEB through the College Board at www.collegeboard.org or at your High School guidance counselor's office.

Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans are low interest loans for students who demonstrate financial need. While in school the interest is paid by the government. Repayment of interest and principal is deferred until 6 months after graduation or when the student leaves school. The repayment term is up to 10 years. Currently, undergraduates may borrow up to $3,500 for the 1st year, $4,500 the second year and up to $5,500 for each undergraduate year thereafter. Graduate and professional students can borrow up to $20,500 per year. Currently, new Stafford loans interest rates are at 3.4%. Origination fees of up to 3% may apply. Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are low interest loans for students not based on financial need. While in school you may choose to make interest payments or let the interest build up and pay it with the principal upon 6 months after graduation or leaving school. The repayment terms and maximum loan amounts and

Federal PLUS loans are low interest rate loans for parents or guardians of dependent, undergraduate students. Loans are based on credit worthiness. Parents may borrow up to the cost of attending school, minus any financial aid received. Repayment of the loan begins within 60 days of receipt of full disbursement of the loan with a repayment term of up to 10 years. A 3% origination fee may apply.

Federal Perkins loans are low-interest, federally-funded loans for undergraduate and graduate students. The loans are available on a limited basis to students with very high financial need. Nine months after graduation or leaving school, the interest and principal repayment commences. The repayment term is up to ten years with a $40 minimum payment due.

Grants, Scholarships or Awards are monies given to students and are not repaid. They may be given for academics, (athletics in Division 1 schools only), demographics or special talent potential. Scholarships, also called "merit aid", are given for academic excellence. Federal government grants, such as the Pell and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, are given based on financial need. There are state grants available based on various criteria. There are specific school grants available based on specific school criteria.

College work-study programs are either federally or school specifically funded. Campus jobs in such areas as the library, food service, bookstore or administrative and academic departments are given to students who will work a limited number of hours.