What is need-based aid?
Need-based aid is financial aid you receive from a college and/or the government based on your family’s financial situation. Just because you have “need” doesn’t mean the college will meet your “need” but several do.
My family has very little money. What types of schools offer funding?
Every college, as of October 2011, is required to have on their website a Net Price Calculator. It was determined that is was unfair to have students apply to a college without any idea if they would qualify for any funds. This is an excellent first step for families who depend on this funding. For […]
What is FAFSA and where can I find it?
FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You and your family must file this to see if you are eligible for need based grants, loans, and federal work study programs. Go to https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
What should I consider when visiting a college?
Definitely take the tour offered by the admissions office — but go off course too. Visit whatever you can, and talk to the students. Don’t be embarassed, they love questions! Ask them specifically what they like and don’t like about their school, how the food is, plus a realy important question — what do they […]
Should I visit every school I am considering so they know I am serious?
If you can visit, great — but an admissons office will understand if it is not financially possible for you and your family. Contact the school, ask about local events for prospective students in your area, and make sure they know how interested you are in the school!
If I major in theatre, and then change my mind and want to go into medicine, do I need to start all over with another Bachelors degree?
Whether you graduate with a BFA in Acting, a BFA in Painting or a BM in Electronic Music, you can ALWAYS change directions. You will need to make up some coursework (for example, sciences for medicine) but anything is possible.
My parents don’t want me to major in the arts. How can I convince them?
Parents are worried that you will not be able to support yourself after graduation. But, how will you support yourself with a major in English? Learn more by reading these FAQ’s, and then follow this link to read statistics on arts graduates employment.
Does a conservatory grant a degree, or do you just get a certificate?
Most conservatories offer both. And some are only two-year programs. When you complete the program, you can then transfer your credits to a four year college to finish your Bachelors degree.
Does a BFA in Painting at a stand-alone school, like Maryland Institute of Art, have a similar curriculum as a BFA in Painting at Cornell?
Yes it does, although a university-based program may offer different options like a more varied liberal arts curriculum, a more diverse student body, and possibly better extra-curricular facilities like a health or athletic center and team sports.
Do I have to obtain a professional degree like a BM or BFA to make it in my field?
Absolutely not. The training is sequenced in these programs, making it easy to know “what to do next”, but it is absolutely not a requirement to have a degree like this for entrée into the profession.
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