WOODS COLLEGE OF ADVANCING STUDIES SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION STEPS

WOODS COLLEGE OF ADVANCING STUDIES SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION STEPS STEP ONE: Complete the Boston College Financial Aid process. This will provide you with funding opportunities not only in the Woods College but through BC as well as outside funding institutions. You can find instructions and forms for this process at www.bc.edu/gradaidforms for Graduate Students and www.bc.edu/undergradaid for Undergrads. Don't worry about anything that may look like a missed deadline, applications are always welcome. This process will also guide you through the FAFSA process. You can check your progress at www.bc.edu/finaidapp STEP TWO: Review the attached Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories document for details about the expectations and process. STEP THREE: Complete the WCAS Scholarship Application which is included in this packet. In addition to the BC Financial Aid deliverables, the following documents must be submitted to Anne Severo, Associate Dean Finance & Administration via email to anne.severo@bc.edu or delivered by hand to Woods College of Advancing Studies offices at St. Mary s South. 1. Scholarship Application Form (see 3.e in the Criteria & Categories document) 2. Two one-page essays answering four questions (see attached application form) 3. A brief statement of general reasons for applying (see 3.a in the Criteria & Categories document) 4. Two letters of recommendation (see 3.b in the Criteria & Categories document) 5. Resume or CV (see 3.c in the Criteria & Categories document) 6. FAFSA ((see 3.d in the Criteria & Categories document) z:\scholarship materials\process\application steps summary.docx Page 1

Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories I. Scholarship Criteria 1. Scholarships are available for those students who demonstrate financial need as well as for those who demonstrate high levels of academic performance and/or present other special circumstances. The scholarship criteria are outlined in detail below. 2. Only applicants enrolled in the Bachelor s or Master s degree programs in the WCAS either full-time or part-time shall be considered. All such students are eligible to apply for a scholarship per the following guidelines: a. Must demonstrate a minimum academic performance of a GPA of 2.66 or higher for current students (for merit scholarships the GPA must be 3.5 or higher). New students to the Woods College will also be considered but this will be dependent upon demonstrated past academic performance in high school, trade school or other college, whichever was most recent. Students, both new and continuing, who have unusual circumstances as to why their GPA has fallen below the 2.66 average (or have not demonstrated successful high school, or other academic performance, e.g., maintaining less than a C average) should submit additional documentation such as a description of circumstances and/or a letter from a school counselor or similar person with their application detailing the reason for poor performance and why we should consider their application at this time. This may include a case by case review to establish whether or not the applicant qualifies for an award. b. Student has demonstrated persistence in reaching their educational goals (e.g., evidence from course records and other sources will be examined, including unofficial transcripts, etc.) and must include two letters of recommendation per guidelines below. c. Student completes an interview with one of the members of the Scholarship Committee (the committee member will utilize a standard evaluation form). 3. All applicants must submit the following documents: a. A brief statement of no more than one page which shall include general reasons for applying, e.g., what draws them to WCAS, their expectations, their goals and future vision, the subject they are interested in studying and why, their interests, how the scholarship will help them, etc. In addition, if a student wishes to apply for a particular scholarship they should indicate such along with any reasons for choosing that scholarship (the list of scholarships is found in Part II below.) b. Two letters of recommendation. One from an academic professional and one from one of the following: a former or current employer, a pastor or religious leader, or someone who knows their situation well (exclusive of immediate family). 1

Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories c. A resume or CV. If assistance is needed in preparing one, the WCAS will be happy to offer such. d. The most recently completed FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form will be utilized. In addition, if the applicant has special circumstances that the committee should consider (e.g., number of children in school, job status, etc.) these should be detailed in a separate letter. e. Application forms 4. Past receipt of scholarship funds is no guarantee of future awards. All completed applications that meet the minimum requirement will be reviewed and decisions will be made in a timely manner. II. Scholarship Categories The Woods College of Advancing Studies has made funds available to its students. All students who submit completed admission applications and who are accepted into the program can be considered for scholarships offered by the Woods College of Advancing Studies. To be considered one must complete all required application materials and submit these to the scholarship committee. Students that meet the scholarship criteria will be automatically considered for the following scholarships: A. Need-based Woods College of Advancing Studies Scholarship Devlin Scholarship Kate and Bob Devlin provided the naming gift for the college in April 2002. They have demonstrated clear dedication to Boston College and the Jesuit concept of Magis. This award is available to students who distinguish themselves in scholarship, loyalty to the ideals of the Jesuit education, and service to others. Walter J. Martin, S.J. An inspiring teacher at Cranwell School, Director of the Delayed Vocation School, beloved Executive Vice Principal of Boston College High, Chaplain of the Port of Boston and Our Lady of Good Voyage Chapel. Father Martin opened new possibilities for others to discover their talents and to learn how to think in new ways. He knew the worth of individuals. He called them each by name. This scholarship is designated for individuals who demonstrate a clear passion for learning and improvement with a demonstrated financial need. 2

Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories Joseph W. McCarthy A forward thinking professional in the hospitality field, Joseph McCarthy was a determined learner who pursued the humanities to inform his insights, and to reaffirm traditional ideals and strengths. His success supports those who reach beyond life s boundaries and especially those who indicate a desire to work in any area of the hospitality industry, pursue the humanities or provide ministerial service. Mark Duke Saccardo 96 Duke embraced the words of the prophet Isaiah as his life s aspiration: You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of the streets to dwell in. At a young age, Duke embraced a faith that fostered a culture within the community that one can trust that criminal and social justice can be achieved. A man forever in service to others. This scholarship is especially designed for those with an interest in criminal justice, social justice, social service and/or law. Morrison-Uchenick Family The Uchenick Family Scholarship opens new possibilities for others to discover their talents and to learn how to think in new ways. Opening doors and helping students to walk through those doors allows them to transform obstacles into challenges that can be met. This scholarship is especially designated for older students who are beginning or returning to studies as well as first generation students. B. Specifically Designated Scholarships Especially for freshmen from Catholic schools: The Dean Michael J. Harding, S.J., Scholarship The President William J. McGarry, S.J., Scholarship Especially for women: The Elizabeth O. Walker Trust Fund Especially for students with alternative learning strategies and schedules: The Mary Delaney Hennessey Scholarship The James A. Woods, S.J., Scholarship Especially for local students with myriad outside responsibilities: The Doris and Francis Ahearn Scholarship The Robert D. Farrell, S.J., Scholarship The Professor Joseph Figurito Scholarship The Mary Hogan and James Murphy Scholarship The Professor John J. McAleer Scholarship The Elizabeth A. Strain Scholarship The Cheryl A. Wright Scholarship 3

Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories C. The Osher Re-entry Scholarship The Osher Foundation Re-entry scholarship targets students who did not have the opportunity, usually because of financial need, to complete their higher education at an earlier stage in their lives but who now bring a strong sense of commitment to their studies. Maine native Bernard Osher is a successful businessman and community leader. His wife, the Honorable Barbro Osher, is the Swedish Consul General in San Francisco. The Osher scholarship funds are intended for students age 25 to 55+ whose collegiate studies have been interrupted for 5+ years and will be completing their first 4-year baccalaureate degree. Recipients must qualify to participate in the workforce for a significant number of years upon graduation, perform at a high academic level (2.66 or better) and demonstrate financial need. D. Allston/Brighton Scholarship The Allston/Brighton Boston College Scholarship Program provides academically talented students from Allston/Brighton with scholarships to attend Boston College. To be eligible for the award, the students must be permanent residents of Allston/Brighton for a minimum of four years and be accepted for freshman admission. In the event that ten Allston/Brighton students do not meet the requirements, the scholarships are awarded to students from other Boston neighborhoods. Students must also complete the Boston College financial aid application process and have an institutionally determined need greater than $10,000 to be considered. Allston/Brighton residents who study at WCAS are eligible for this scholarship. E. Merit-based Scholarship There are several other scholarships available generally based upon merit, e.g., strong academic standing at 3.5 or better GPA, along with other criteria such as recommendations of professors, administrators, religious superiors (or a religious community member) and, as appropriate, their academic advisor. F. Society of Jesus Scholarships Partial and full scholarships are available for nephews and nieces of Jesuits working at Boston College and who are seeking a degree or further studies. 4

Woods College Scholarships Criteria and Categories G. Employee Boston College faculty/staff and their children/spouses who study at WCAS must follow the general guidelines set forth by Boston College. http://www.bc.edu/offices/hr/resources/handbook/hbk-benefits.html#tr 5

Boston College Woods College of Advancing Studies Scholarship Application In keeping with the mission of the Woods College of Advancing Studies, to provide access to flexible and rigorous education to individuals managing complex life circumstances, this form is part of the scholarship aid application. Degree seeking students are all eligible to apply for financial assistance. Applications are reviewed throughout the year, on a rolling and need-based schedule. SCHOLARSHIPS Especially for freshmen: Especially for women: Especially for students with alternative learning strategies and schedules: The Dean Michael J. Harding, S.J., Scholarship The President William J. McGarry, S.J., Scholarship The Elizabeth O. Walker Trust Fund The Mary Delaney Hennessey Scholarship The Morrison-Uchenick Family Scholarship The James A. Woods, S.J., Scholarship The Doris and Francis Ahearn Scholarship The Robert D. Farrell, S.J., Scholarship The Professor Joseph Figurito Scholarship Especially for local students The Mary Hogan and James Murphy Scholarship with myriad outside The Walter J. Martin, S.J., Scholarship responsibilities: The Professor John J. McAleer Scholarship The Joseph W. McCarthy Scholarship The Mark Duke Saccardo 96 Scholarship The Elizabeth A. Strain Scholarship The Cheryl A. Wright Scholarship z:\scholarship materials\forms\scholarship application form.docx Page 1

Boston College Woods College of Advancing Studies Applicant Name: Is this your first time applying for Woods College Financial Assistance? Y N Returning Scholarship Aid seekers do not have to complete further interviews or submit letters of recommendation unless requested by the committee For which scholarship(s) are you applying? Are you requesting partial or full aid? F P Reason for applying for this scholarship? Multiple Steps are needed to facilitate review of your completed financial aid application: 1. Have you completed FAFSA? Yes No 2. Have you completed the Boston College financial aid process? (Check your progress at the following link: www.bc.edu/finaidapp Yes No PLEASE APPROXIMATE YOUR NUMBER OF COURSES FOR* Fall Spring Summer *Awards are adjusted to reflect actual number of registrations. On an additional sheet please explain the following (not more than 1 page): 1. Are there any specific financial concerns that you want to bring to the attention of the scholarship committee that will supplement their review of your financial aid application? Are there particular expenses or circumstances that impact your budgetary limitations at present? 2. If there is a discrepancy between your FAFSA s estimated family contribution (EFC) and your ability to finance your tuition, fees, and other academic expenses, please explain in detail. z:\scholarship materials\forms\scholarship application form.docx Page 2

Boston College Woods College of Advancing Studies On an additional sheet please explain the following (not more than 1 page): 1.What draws you to The Woods College of Advancing Studies? What are your expectations, goals, and future vision? How will this scholarship help you? 2. If past academic performance was a GPA below 2.66 please explain. Please note - Federal Financial Aid available during the Summer Sessions unless the student has a planned graduation date of August or December. In exceptional circumstances the Woods College may offer Summer Scholarship Aid but you must request special consideration for this from the Scholarship Committee Chair. z:\scholarship materials\forms\scholarship application form.docx Page 3

Boston College Woods College of Advancing Studies In signing below, I agree that the information provided here is a full account of my present financial situation and that I wish to be considered for a scholarship for the 2015-2016 academic year. (Date) (Signature) NAME (printed): EAGLE NUMBER: PREFERRED MAILING ADDRESS: ( ) (Cell Phone) (E-mail Address) HAVE YOU ANSWERED EACH QUESTION AND INCLUDED ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS? ONLY COMPLETED APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED. z:\scholarship materials\forms\scholarship application form.docx Page 4