Frequently Asked Questions
What are "local scholarships"?
Individuals, as well as local civic organizations, have set up scholarships for Newton South High School students. The majority of the scholarships are individuals with a connection to Newton South, such as former students or parents of a current/former student. Also, there are established trusts that award money to Newton students through the scholarship committee.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for a scholarship?
The only definite requirement is to be a Newton South High School student eligible to graduate. Because the scholarship committee does not set the criteria for a scholarship, there are many different students who may be eligible for a scholarship, such as participation in sports, extracurricular activities, or criteria such as the elementary school the student attended. However, many of the scholarships are based primarily on financial need.
What financial information do I need to fill out the application?
Parent income, home valuation, EFC as determined by the FAFSA application (Expected Family Contribution), and student income are the primary questions that are needed to complete the application. If there are extenuating circumstances, please let us know on the application or contact us to explain so we can make good decisions about who is a good fit for a scholarship.
What is EFC and why is it requested on the application?
When a FAFSA application is completed, an Expected Family Contribution number is given for each student. This number is required to complete an application. If there is a reason why a FAFSA is not filed, please note it on the application. If we do not receive this information and there is no reason, we can only assume that the student is not applying for federal financial aid.
Why should I check messages on Schoology?
After submission of your initial application, you will be added to a Schoology group. Schoology is the most efficient way for the committee to contact all seniors applying for scholarships. All reminders and notices of missing information will be sent through Schoology.
Additionally, most donors do not contact the students directly, but for some scholarships there is a request for a recipient to to accept the award at a ceremony, speak to an organization, or interview for a scholarship. If there seems to be a good match, the scholarship committee will contact the student with instructions.
Why can't I ask a Newton South teacher for a recommendation letter?
One recommendation is required to complete the application. The recommender cannot be a Newton South employee. The purpose is to find someone in the community such as a neighbor, family friend, employer, coach outside of the school, pastor, or someone who can speak to a student's character or non-academic performance.
When do I find out whether I get a scholarship?
Award letters are usually sent out in late May-early June. A letter will be sent in the mail to your home address. If a scholarship has been awarded, then instructions will also be included on how to collect the award.
Unknown(Artist). (before 1909) The Trolley Stop [Digital image]. Retrieved from Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Newtonbostoncar.jpg