Going to College
Are you looking to continue your education past your high school diploma or GED? Read below to learn more about getting a post-secondary education!
Benefits of continuing your education
Steps to continuing your education
Determine your reason for returning to school
Research your desired program or school
Determine how you will pay for school
Manage your time
Enroll in your program or school
Paying for your education
WHat is financial aid?
Eligibility requirements
Can I get Financial Aid?
Financial aid is money to help pay for college or career school. Aid can come from: the U.S. federal government, your state, the college you attend, and/or a nonprofit or private organization.
Be a U.S. Citizen or Eligible Noncitizen
Have a Valid Social Security Number
Be Accepted for Enrollment to an Eligible Degree or Certificate Program
Be Registered for the Selective Service*
Qualify to Obtain a College or Career School Education*
Be enrolled in school at least half time, but doesn’t have to be full time
Your eligibility for federal student aid can be affected by incarceration and/or the type of conviction that you have. In most cases, having a conviction doesn’t affect your eligibility for financial aid. If you have a drug related conviction, it probably doesn’t affect your eligibility but if you have a sex offence conviction, it might. Click on the "Criminal Convictions & Financial Aid" button to learn more about the impact of incarceration and/or the type of conviction on your eligibility for federal student aid.
Continuing your education can be costly, but there are resources to support you. For more resources, visit the financial aid webpage.
What are Reentry Support Groups?
Lots of colleges are creating reentry support groups for formerly incarcerated individuals who are continuing their education.
Getting used to college takes time for everyone! We recommend you connect with on-campus resources and your go-to people at CEO. The four tips above are just examples of what a reentry support group can help you navigate. If the campus you are studying at does not have a reentry group, there are still plenty of resources to tap into, such as the University Center. This is where most first-year students can locate a ton of help.
Avoiding Scams and Predatory Schools
Research the institution and Check the school’s
ranking
accreditations
graduation rates
Be suspicious of job guarantees
Be cautious of urgent enrollment demands
Avoid fast-tracked degree programs that require little to no work
Ask questions