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Happy New Year!
This year, College Now remains steadfast in our mission to empower individuals through education, driving the economic vitality of Northeast Ohio. As we step into this new year, we embrace opportunities for growth, collaboration and innovation, all aimed at advancing our mission.
In 2024, College Now served an impressive 38,000 individuals across Northeast Ohio. We're thrilled to announce that this year, we're on track to reach even more people, starting at a younger age. Through our latest GEAR UP partnership grants, we’ll support over 4,800 students in becoming college and career-ready. Partnering with educational leaders in 10 districts, we are committed to expanding and deepening a college-going culture. Our comprehensive services - college and career advising, scholarships, mentoring and coaching - transform individual lives and equip our region’s employers with the educated talent necessary to fill current and future positions. Together, we are shaping our community's brighter, more prosperous future.
College Now ensures that individuals of all ages are prepared for, have access to and receive support through post-secondary education to achieve their educational and career aspirations.
Thank you for your unwavering support and partnership. We look forward to many more years of impactful collaboration and success.
Warm regards,
Michele
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Know a high school senior or current college student? Make sure they complete the FAFSA!
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is open! High school seniors, college students and adult learners can complete the FAFSA to access federal grants, work-study opportunities and loans—key resources for funding college or career training.
Completing the FAFSA early increases your chances of qualifying for limited grants, scholarships and work-study opportunities. It allows you to receive financial aid offers sooner, giving you more time to compare options and plan for college costs.
Need assistance? College Now offers free, in-person FAFSA workshops at our downtown offices, local libraries and in partnership with the EITC Tax Coalition. Virtual appointments with our experienced advisors are also available. We're here to make the process simple and stress-free.
Don’t wait - secure the financial support you need for your educational goals. Check out our FAFSA toolkit for helpful tips and get started today!
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Learn the ins and outs of affording a college education. Join our free college readiness webinars this winter!
On Tuesday, Jan. 28, our Scholarship Secrets: Finding and Winning Free Money Webinar is designed to equip students with fresh insights into finding and winning scholarships to fund their education.
On Tuesday, Feb. 11, in Mastering FAFSA: Your Key to Financial Aid, we’ll guide students and families through the FAFSA process to help them access grants, scholarships and loans.
On Tuesday, Feb. 25, our Understanding Loans 101: Borrow Smart, Graduate Smart Webinar is designed to help students gain a thorough understanding of student loans, including types of loans, interest rates, repayment options and how to borrow responsibly.
All webinars are open to students and parents/guardians and run from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Don’t miss these valuable sessions to get a head start on your college journey!
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Mentor a college student - learn how!
Learn how you can make a difference in the lives of college students from Northeast Ohio by attending our new virtual mentoring information sessions! These lunchtime sessions take place on the fourth Friday of each month through October, starting Jan. 24 from 12 –12:30 p.m.
With a small investment of your time, you can inspire the next generation to complete their college education, contributing to Greater Cleveland’s growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to get involved - mark your calendar and join us January 24, or apply to mentor today!
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Mentoring Winter Wellness Wonderland
Last week, College Now mentors and their mentees came together for an inspiring evening of connection and mental health awareness at our Winter Wellness Wonderland at Tri-C's Metro Campus. The event featured grounding exercises, wellness activities and a powerful keynote from Archie Green, award-winning hip-hop artist and founder of Peel Dem Layers Back, who champions mental health awareness through hip-hop.
Thanks to all who joined us for this impactful gathering!
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College Now featured on WKYC's We the People
College Now was honored to be featured in the final episode of WKYC’s We the People. During the segment, Nicki Price, College Now’s mentoring recruitment manager, shared insights into how our organization has been positively impacted by grants from TEGNA, WKYC's parent company. We are deeply grateful for the support that helps us empower student success.
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Scholarship Opportunities | |
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Scholarship for a New Generation
Do you know a high school senior in Northeast Ohio who is an immigrant or first-generation U.S. citizen? The Scholarship for a New Generation, supported by The John Sullivan Wilson Family Fund of the Cleveland Foundation, is a fantastic opportunity to help them pursue their college dreams. This renewable scholarship is available to students enrolling in a four-year accredited college or university, with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant. Applications are open now through March 7, 2025.
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Cleveland Foundation Scholarships
College Now manages more than 60 Cleveland Foundation scholarships. These scholarships vary in criteria and scope, and there is something for nearly everyone. By completing the general application, students can be considered for dozens of scholarships. Please note that while the general application covers many scholarships, others (such as corporate/group scholarships, external scholarships, and a small number of specialized scholarships) require a separate application. The deadline to apply is March 12, 2025.
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College Now Traditional Scholarship
Spread the word about the College Now Traditional Scholarship! To qualify, students must attend a College Now-served high school, maintain a cumulative weighted GPA of at least 2.5, and achieve a minimum ACT composite score of 18 or a combined verbal and math SAT score of 960. The application deadline is March 7, 2025.
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Scholarships for Adult Learners
Do you know an adult who’s ready to continue their education? Share this amazing opportunity! The College Club of Cleveland Foundation Scholarship and the College Now Adult Learner Scholarship are here to support adult learners (ages 19 and up) on their educational journeys. Whether restarting school or starting for the first time, these scholarships can make a big difference. Help someone take the first step toward their dreams by sharing this information today!
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Subscribe to our Parent/Student Newsletter!
Stay connected and informed by subscribing to College Now's parent/student newsletter! Be the first to receive timely updates on workshops, scholarship opportunities and monthly tips designed to support your high school student's journey to college. Our newsletter is your go-to resource for navigating the college-going process this school year—don’t miss out on the essential information you need to help your student succeed!
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Post Office Plaza
1500 West 3rd Street, Suite 125
Cleveland, OH 44113
216.241.5587
collegenowgc.org
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