Financial Aid Overview

Going to college can be expensive, but I Know I Can is here to help you get every dollar available to make college affordable, offering guidance and assistance in obtaining, selecting and completing all financial aid forms.

Financial Aid

There are many different financial resources to help you afford college. They can be based on need, academics, or other qualifications. In order to be eligible for any financial aid, you MUST first complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Talk to your school counselor or an IKIC Advisor for more help.

I Know I Can offers scholarships and grants to eligible graduating seniors in Columbus, Reynoldsburg, South-Western, and Whitehall City Schools.

Interested in applying? Funding applications for the 25-26 academic year will launch on January 6th, 2025. Stay tuned for more details on how to apply. Talk to your high school’s College Advising Manager for assistance.

 

I Know I Can Grant

Available to eligible Columbus City Schools high school seniors or Columbus City Schools graduates currently enrolled in college.
Worth $2,500.

Founders Scholarship

Available to eligible Columbus City Schools seniors enrolling in a full-time, 4-year or 2-year degree program at an accredited college.
Worth up to $10,000.

Dream Big Scholarship

The Dream Big Scholarship is no longer open to new applicants. If you are a current Dream Big Scholar in need of assistance, please reach out to your College Resource Specialist.

The Columbus Promise

The Columbus Promise provides tuition-free education at Columbus State Community College to graduates of Columbus City Schools. To be eligible you must complete the FAFSA as well as The Columbus Promise application.

Types of Financial Aid

What kind of aid can you get? Now that you’ve completed the FAFSA, let’s take a look at the different types of financial aid.

Work-Study

A federal student aid program that allows you to earn a paycheck by working a limited number of hours throughout the school year at the college you attend.

Loans

Many students and parents borrow money to help pay educational expenses. Loans must be repaid with interest, usually after your education is completed.

Scholarships

These are applied for and awarded on the basis of merit, skill and unique characteristics. You do not pay this money back; however, most scholarships require that you maintain a certain level of achievement.

Grants

Grants are usually awarded on the basis of financial need. You do not pay this money back.

Financial Literacy Tips and Tricks

April is Financial Literacy Month and I Know I Can celebrated by presenting information to help our students and staff become more financially literate. Check out all the tips and tricks on our Financial Literacy page!

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