I'm thinking about applying to Highline, but I'm really worried about finances. Does anyone have experience with their financial aid process? How generous is it, and are there scholarships I should be aware of?
Highline College has quite a few different opportunities for financial aid, both in terms of need-based aid (like grants and work-study employment) and scholarships.
The first step to applying for financial aid at Highline is to complete your FAFSA, which helps determine your eligibility for federal student aid such as Pell grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and federal work-study. Submit it as early as possible, as some funds are first-come, first-served.
In addition to federal aid, you should also look into what Washington State provides as part of its state financial aid program. For example, the Washington College Grant (formerly the State Need Grant) can provide assistance for those who qualify.
When it comes to scholarships, Highline has its own foundation that awards money to Highline students. The Highline College Foundation offers over 50 scholarships for students, each with their own requirements. Some are based on financial need, others are merit-based, and some are targeted at specific groups of students (like those pursuing a particular major, those who have a unique hobby, or those who are from a certain place).
Example scholarships include the Founder's Scholarship intended for students with a 3.5+ GPA and the Highline College Dream Scholarship for students who are not eligible for federal financial aid due to immigration status.
Finally, it's also recommended to look into external scholarships that are available - there are many out there from foundations, companies, and not-for-profit organizations. These won't come straight from Highline, but they can still be applied toward your tuition there.
When it comes to financial aid, it's best to explore as many options as possible. You never know which scholarships you might qualify for, so it's worth applying to as many as you realistically can. This can take some time and effort, but it can also pay off in a big way!
Remember to take advantage of the resources and assistance Highline can provide in this process as well. Highline's Financial Aid Office can be a valuable source of information and guidance.
I hope this is helpful and best of luck with your applications!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.