There are nearly 200 scholarships available to students from a variety of backgrounds for the 2013-14 academic year.
“I’d encourage all students to log-in to STARS and take a look,” Associate Financial Aid Director Peggy Metzger says. “With the wide variety of scholarships available, I am sure everyone will be able to find something.”
Scholarships are a popular way for students to fund their education. Other financial aid options include grants, work-study and loans, Metzger says.
STARS matches students with scholarships based on their responses to a series of academic and demographic questions such as G.P.A., intended major and credits completed.
“It runs through the database and gives you a list of all of the scholarships you are eligible for,” says Metzger. “Some are broad and some are narrow in terms of requirements.”
While some scholarships require just the click of a mouse to apply, others ask for supplemental material such as essays, video auditions and letters of recommendation. STARS streamlines the application process by allowing students to upload all of their supporting documents online.
The system also makes it easier for students to request a letter of reference. Once a user has selected a faculty recommender, STARS sends the professor an email with instructions on how to submit an online letter of recommendation.
“It’s completely paperless, and much easier than a student having to walk to around campus trying find out which scholarships are available and how to apply for each one,” Metzger says.
Once you’ve identified a list of scholarships, Metzger encourages you to apply right away. “Even though you have until March 2, my recommendation is to go in nice and early,” she says. “Some applications require essays and letters of recommendations and you don’t want to leave until the last minute.”
This is the first year that all campus scholarships will be accessible through STARS. March 2 is also the priority deadline to apply for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For the best chance of receiving federal aid, students are encouraged to apply before March 2, by visiting fasfa.edu.gov.
Approximately 70 percent of Humboldt State students receive some form of financial support, according to the Office of Financial Aid. The average package varies based on the income and assets of each student’s family, fund availability, and HSU’s awarding criteria.