Application
Preparing for an Online Degree Program
The prospect of entering (or returning) to college can be a daunting challenge for most any adult, bringing anxiety and nervousness. From personal experience, I can attest that these feelings are compounded based on a fear of unknown circumstances and unfamiliar surroundings associated with online degree programs. Committing to the pursuit or completion of a degree via an online program is a significant first-step, but there are several preparations you can take that can increase the chances for success and alleviate the preparatory anxiety.
First, if you have not already done so, begin familiarizing yourself with key productivity and online applications. Most of the schools offering online degree programs require the use of software currently in use (and accepted as “standard” in the personal and business computing environment). Microsoft Office applications are some of the most common applications in use, though compatibility improvements between applications will allow the use other software products if you so desire. Access to an Internet Service Provider (ISP) is also an essential tool; I would suggest that you use a high-speed Internet connection if at all possible, as this will improve connectivity and minimize the time spent in downloading course materials and uploading assignments. You should have at least one email account through your ISP. From personal experience, I would suggest establishing a separate email account for school-related correspondence, as this will prevent inbox clutter and ensure that critical school-related correspondence will not be lost or overlooked. This will also help in controlling unwanted (spam) emails in this account, as you can set up the email client to accept correspondence from known sources.
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Increases in Scholarship and Financial Aid Amounts!
Tuition increases and Scholarships
It is amazing how much is going on in the world of college education. States are cutting budgets college are losing faculty at an alarming rate. What that means in terms of college finances is an increase in tuition prices. Even though most colleges are raising their tuition, every student won’t be negatively affected.
Effects tuition has on scholarships
In schools that raise tuition, scholarships and financial aid won’t necessarily be negatively affected. If you are receiving federal funding for example a Pell Grant, the amount of that award will be significantly higher to compensate for tuition increases. The bad news is if you are using a student loan or scholarships that come from contest or are awarded for specified amounts, then that amount will remain unchanged. Another positive thing from tuition increases is a larger educational tax credit for you if you are independent or your family if they are claiming you…hint fill out a FAFSA as soon as possible.
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