4 Tips for Students Navigating Through COVID-19
High school juniors and seniors seem to be the most caught in the cross hairs of this pandemic, with graduation, college planning, testing, and more hanging in the balance. Here are steps to get through all of this and stay on top of your goals of going to college!
College Visits
Most students get excited to explore different campuses to see where they are going to spend their days as a college student. With most campuses shut down for the time being, the option to visit has been put on hold. Don't fret, though! Many colleges offer virtual tours of their campus and facilities. In addition, you can use this time to thoroughly explore their website and social media pages to get a better feel, and you can reach out to current students to talk about their experiences and ask questions. | Learn more.
SAT & ACT Testing
Not only are schools being disrupted by the virus, so are testing centers. Big tests, like the SATs and ACTs are being delayed and pushed back. This won’t prevent you from taking the tests in the future, but it may affect the admissions process for colleges. Your best option, if you're applying to schools without proof of test scores, is to be transparent with them and let the schools know that you've been unable to take the test due to COVID-19-related shutdowns. They may have another form of test you can take, and/or they may be willing to accept your application as-is, and let you submit your test scores at a later date.
Financial Aid
At this point, financial aid has not been affected by COVID-19 shutdowns. If you've not yet applied for for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), it’s not too late! The deadline is April 15, 2020. In even better news – it can be done all online! | Apply now.
Student Loan Repayments
If you're a college graduate or otherwise have student loans that you typically make monthly payments on, and COVID-19 has had a negative impact on your finances, the government is offering several different options for relief. For the next 60 days, the government is waving all accruing interest. If you continue to make payments, the whole payment will go toward the principle balance (rather than interest). The government has also given those paying on student loans the option to suspend payments on federal student loans for the next 60 days. If you wish to accept that opportunity, you MUST contact your student loan provider. They will walk you through the steps you need to take to make this happen. | Learn more.
QUESTIONS? If you still have questions or would like to discuss your options, please reach out to our Youth & College Support Team at 260.490.8328 x8265 or by email.