College Preparation
Introduction
Please view the following presentations that were created by the SHS school counselors. These presentations cover important topics and information for students and families during the college search and application process. Students should reach out to their school counselor with any questions that they have — they are available to help!
Who is my counselor?
The counselors at Sycamore High School assist students based on the first letter of their last name.
SHS College Prep — Overview
SHS College Prep — Financial Aid for Seniors
Finding the Right Fit College
By Tedra Mewhirter, NIU Admission Counselor
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Under Illinois Public Act 101-0180, completing a FAFSA application is now a graduation requirement for Illinois seniors. The FAFSA application opens on October 1 every year. Be sure that you complete it for the year your student will be enrolled in college. To complete a FAFSA application, please visit www.fafsa.gov.
In order to prepare for this application, students and families should each create their own FSA ID at this link: Create a FSA ID. Your FSA ID will serve as your signature on the FAFSA. It takes one to three days for your FSA ID to be processed, so you can start that process as soon as possible.
This is a great video that was based on the 2020-2021 FAFSA — it gives a good overview of how to fill out the FAFSA. The steps in the video give you a great overview of your process for the 2022-2023 FAFSA. It is worth the 12 minute watch!