Bulan: November 2024

Here’s How to Get the FAFSA in 2024-2025

November 29, 2024 / canmydog / 0 Comments

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, which opened Nov. 18 to all applicants, is one of the most important steps students and their families can take to pay for college. Many states now require completion of the FAFSA as a requirement for high school graduation.

The U.S. Department of Education provided about $114.1 billion in federal grants, loans and work-study funds in fiscal year 2023, according to the latest annual Federal Student Aid Report. The federal funds helped more than 9.7 million students complete their education, according to the unaudited report. Federal financial aid can be borrowed, earned through work-study or awarded — for example, as a grant. Here are answers to common questions about the FAFSA.

What’s the FAFSA?

“The FAFSA is the gateway to all federal financial aid for students,” said Michele Shepard Zampini, senior director of college affordability at The Institute for College Access and Success. “All grant programs — including the Pell Grant — and all student loan programs go through the FAFSA. So without filing it, you’re not eligible for any aid.” States and many colleges also use the FAFSA to select their own aid.

A common misconception about the FAFSA is that families think they won’t qualify for any financial aid, experts say. “People say, ‘I make too much money, I’m never going to qualify,'” says Johnnie Johnson, vice president of enrollment management at Washington College in Maryland. “You don’t know unless you fill it out. The good thing about the FAFSA is that it’s free, so there’s no harm in filling it out. Just fill it out no matter what.”

How to Apply for Financial Aid Through the FAFSA

Families can fill out the FAFSA application online using a computer, phone or tablet. The Federal Student Aid website is mobile-responsive, so the page should fit any screen size and shape of the device.

Gather Your FAFSA Documents

There is a list of documents required to complete the FAFSA. Families will need a Social Security number (if applicable), driver’s license number or state ID number, alien registration number for non-U.S. citizens, tax information, records of untaxed income, recent bank statements and net worth of investments, farms and businesses – if applicable – and a list of schools the student plans to attend.

Create an FSA ID

The first step before completing the FAFSA is to create an FSA ID, which serves as an electronic signature and is used to create a StudentAid.gov account. All contributors—parents, stepparents, spouses, or anyone else required to provide information on a student’s form—must create an FSA ID.

Parents and students can find a link to obtain an FSA ID through the Federal Student Aid website. To create a unique ID, applicants will need their Social Security number (if applicable), email address, date of birth, and name as it appears on official documents.

Enter Student and Parent Information

To apply for financial aid through the FAFSA, families must enter information about their citizenship and marital status, legal residency, and Social Security number, if applicable.

Applicants must also list at least one school to which they are applying or have applied so that schools can receive their information. Students can list up to 20 institutions on the online form or up to 10 on the printed version. After submitting the form, students can still remove or add colleges to their list.

Enter Financial Information

The FAFSA uses tax information from what is known as the “prior year” – a verified federal tax return from two years ago. A family completing the FAFSA for the 2025-2026 school year will want to use their 2023 tax return. Using a verified tax return from a previous year eliminates the need to use estimates on the form.

Review and Submit Your FAFSA

When completing the FAFSA, the student and parent, if the applicant is filing as a dependent, are required to sign the form – either digitally using their FSA ID or by hand on a paper version.

3 List of the Best International University Scholarships to Study in the USA

November 29, 2024 / canmydog / 1 Comment

It’s no secret that the US is one of the most expensive countries to study in, but don’t let that deter you, as there are hundreds of opportunities to get funding for your studies here.

As an international student, you won’t be eligible for any funding specifically for US citizens. However, as US universities prioritize internationalization, the number of international scholarships to study in the US has increased. There are also several US universities that offer admissions without the need for international students.

Below are some of the US scholarships for international students, some funded by the US government, some funded by private organizations, and some funded by specific institutions. Good luck with your application!

Information on US Government-funded Scholarships for International Students

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

About the most popular US government-funded scholarship for international students, Fulbright provides scholarships for graduate students, young professionals, and artists to study in the US for a year or more. It is open to international students in all fields except medicine.

Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program

This is a non-degree scholarship program for experienced international professionals who wish to undertake 10 months of academic study in the US. While the funding does not support a degree qualification, students are able to study and develop their knowledge at a variety of academic institutions across the country.

US non-government scholarships for international students

#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

The international scholarship is open to all international students who wish to study any subject at a participating US college or university (of which there are 57). You must submit an essay or video demonstrating your interest and initiative in promoting intercultural learning and exchange. (The Fall 2019 application deadline has passed, applications will open for the 2020 round in May 2019.)

Civil Society Leadership Awards

Fully funded scholarships are available for students from eligible countries who wish to study in the US or other host countries at the master’s level.

University-specific US scholarships for international students

American University Emerging Global Leaders Scholarships

Undergraduate scholarships for study in the US at American University in Washington DC. Designed for international students who demonstrate leadership potential.

Brandeis University Vienna International Scholars Program

Funding opportunity for outstanding students interested in contributing to the student community.

Clark University Global Scholars Program

Scholarships of up to $10,000 plus a taxable stipend of $2,500 for paid internships are available for first-year international applicants.

5 Best Medical Schools in America 2024-2025

November 28, 2024 / canmydog / 1 Comment

A medical career begins with finding the program that best fits your needs. With U.S. News rankings of the best medical schools by research, narrow your search by location, tuition budget, school size, and test scores.

The footnotes below list schools that declined to complete the U.S. News statistical survey. Please review our methodology to see how this school’s data was used in the rankings.

Here are the Top Medical Schools in America

1. Case Western Reserve University

The School of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University has an application deadline of November 1. The application fee at Case Western Reserve University is $95. Full-time tuition: $69,712 (in-state) and full-time: $69,712 (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio at Case Western Reserve University is 3.5:1. The School of Medicine has 3,304 full-time faculty members.

2. Baylor College of Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine has an application deadline of November 1st. The application fee at Baylor College of Medicine is $100. Full-time tuition is $19,425 (in-state) and full-time tuition is $32,525 (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio at Baylor College of Medicine is 3.6:1. The medical school has 2,748 full-time faculty.

3. Mayo Clinic School of Medicine

Mayo Clinic School of Medicine (Alix) has an application deadline of October 1. The application fee at Mayo Clinic School of Medicine (Alix) is $120. Full-time tuition is: $64,000 (in-state) and full-time: $64,000 (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio at Mayo Clinic School of Medicine (Alix) is 2:1. The medical school has 845 full-time faculty members.

4. Emory University

Emory University School of Medicine has an application deadline of October 15. The application fee at Emory University is $120. Full-time tuition is: $54,000 (in-state) and full-time: $54,000 (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio at Emory University is 4:1. The medical school has 2,390 full-time faculty members.

5. Hofstra University/Northwell Health

Hofstra University/Northwell Health at Hofstra University/Northwell Health (Zucker) has an application deadline of November 1. The application fee at Hofstra University/Northwell Health (Zucker) is $125. Full-time tuition: $56,250 (in-state) and full-time: $56,250 (out-of-state). The faculty-to-student ratio at Hofstra University/Northwell Health (Zucker) is 8.3:1. Hofstra University/Northwell Health has 3,307 full-time faculty members.

5 Best Universities in America According to Forbes 2025

November 28, 2024 / canmydog / 2 Comments

For the second year in a row, Princeton University has earned the #1 spot alongside a lead in all 14 metrics Forbes uses to determine which 500 American colleges provide the best educational, financial and career outcomes for all students. Among the standout numbers: a 97% six-year graduation rate for low-income students. But there’s also notable movement on the list, with Houston’s Rice University making the top 10 for the first time, jumping to #9 from #22 last year, thanks in part to its low student debt. Earlier this year, Rice was one of ten private schools, along with 10 public schools, to be named the “New Ivies.” Also notable: At a time when applications to historically Black colleges and universities are soaring and diversity efforts at some public universities are being scaled back, six HBCUs earned spots in the top 500, up from three last year.

While we don’t include school acceptance rates in our rankings, this year we decided to ease some of the concerns of high school seniors by highlighting top schools with acceptance rates that are not below 10%, such as Princeton, Stanford, or MIT. Thirty-eight of our top 100 schools accept more than 30% of applicants, and 16 of them accept 50% or more—in other words, these are great schools with lower acceptance rates. Also new this year, because school size is not factored into our rankings, we’ve created a sublist of the 50 best small colleges for students looking for the supportive environment and small class sizes that these schools offer. As in previous years, we’re also highlighting the top 5 public colleges, the top 5 private colleges that provide generous financial aid, and the top 5 schools that provide the best return on investment. For our essential rankings on the financial health of private colleges, click here . For a closer look at our rankings methodology, click here .

Here is the List of the Best and Most Favorite Colleges in America

1. Princeton University

Princeton University is a private Ivy League research university located in Princeton, New Jersey. As the fourth oldest college in the United States, Princeton has a long history spanning 276 years. The university offers 37 degree concentrations and over 50 interdepartmental certificate programs, with some of the most popular majors being the social sciences, engineering, public administration, and social service professions.

2. Stanford University

The San Francisco Bay Area is home to over 7,700 undergraduate students and nearly 10,000 graduate students at Stanford University for the Fall 2022 quarter. Known globally for its STEM programs, Stanford also provides academic programs from each of its seven schools, including humanities, law, and business. The university boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, with 2,304 faculty members. Stanford has produced a number of notable alumni, including Nobel Prize winners Carl Wieman, Paul Milgrom, and Roger Kornberg — who continues to teach at the university’s Medical School.

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is remembered for its groundbreaking discoveries in science, research, and technology. The university’s acceptance rate is also competitive, admitting just 3.9% of the more than 33,000 applicants for the class of 2026. Last fiscal year, MIT’s total endowment was $24.6 billion, with funds going to research, education, and scholarships. In 2023, the average family earning just under $140,000 would cover full undergraduate tuition, thanks to its endowment.4. Yale University

4. Yale University

Yale University has a centuries-long history that solidifies its position among the Ivy League and stands as one of the most prestigious schools in the United States. In 2023, Yale’s competitive admissions reportedly accepted less than 5 percent of applicants, the lowest acceptance rate in the school’s recent history. The university provides degree-granting academic programs across 14 schools, including Yale College, the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, and the Yale Professional School. The university prides itself on its research efforts, with more than 70 core research facilities and $900 million in external funding for fiscal year 2022.

5. University of California, Berkeley

UC Berkeley’s accomplishments extend beyond academics with pride rooted in history, discovery, and social contribution. With more than 35,000 students, students can choose from 350 degree programs across 130 academic departments. Not only is UC Berkeley the all-time leading producer of Peace Corps members, but it also boasts an impressive alumni base of 35 Nobel Prize winners—nine of whom are current faculty. UC Berkeley athletics are also renowned for their broad academic offerings. 121 Olympic gold medals have been awarded to students and alumni and remains highly respected along with 98 National Championships. In 2023, the university recorded the highest California enrollment of its student body of more than 125,800.

Here’s How Stanford University Has Helped Develop Silicon Valley

November 25, 2024 / canmydog / 2 Comments

When we think of Silicon Valley, images of tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Apple often come to mind. However, behind this thriving ecosystem lies a powerful force that has fundamentally shaped the landscape of innovation — Stanford University. Located in the heart of California’s most famous tech haven, Stanford is more than just an academic institution; it is a launching pad for ingenuity and entrepreneurship. With its halls filled with world-changing research and innovative ideas, the university has played a vital role in turning dreams into tangible realities. Join us as we explore how Stanford University catalyzed the rise of Silicon Valley and continues to influence the future of technology!

Silicon Valley Facts and Its Significance in the Tech Industry

Silicon Valley is synonymous with innovation. It is a vibrant ecosystem where tech giants thrive, startups emerge, and innovative ideas are born every second. But what drives this dynamic region’s relentless drive to move forward? At the heart of it all is Stanford University, an institution that has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Silicon Valley.

Founded in 1885, Stanford has grown from humble beginnings into one of the world’s leading research universities. Its influence extends far beyond academia; the university serves as a launching pad for many entrepreneurs and innovators. The synergy between Stanford and Silicon Valley is undeniable—a relationship that is deeply rooted in history but continues to evolve to meet the demands of the tech industry of the future.

Join us as we explore how Stanford University’s contributions have been integral to the development of Silicon Valley. From nurturing entrepreneurship to producing some of the most influential minds in technology, discover why the university remains a key player in one of the world’s most exciting regions.

Also Read: Harvard University Named the #1 College by College Raptor for 2024

Stanford University’s early history and connection to entrepreneurship

Stanford University was founded in 1885 by Leland Stanford and his wife, Jane. Their vision was to create a university that would serve the sons and daughters of California’s working class. This idea laid the foundation for an institution deeply connected to innovation.

From its inception, Stanford fostered an entrepreneurial spirit. Its founders promoted practical learning alongside traditional academics. Since the 1890s, students have explored ways to apply their knowledge to real-world problems.

The university’s proximity to San Francisco helped foster relationships with emerging industries. Many graduates started businesses shortly after leaving campus, creating a ripple effect that reverberated throughout California.

This unique combination of education and entrepreneurial drive set Stanford apart from other institutions at the time, making it a critical player in shaping the future innovators and business leaders who would transform Silicon Valley into a global technology hub.

How Stanford’s location in Silicon Valley influenced its growth and development
Stanford University’s location in the heart of Silicon Valley has played a critical role in its growth and development. Nestled between the San Francisco Bay and the Santa Clara Valley, Stanford is surrounded by some of the world’s most innovative companies.

Proximity to these tech giants fosters collaboration. Students benefit from networking opportunities with industry leaders, while researchers gain access to cutting-edge technology.

As such, being part of Silicon Valley fosters an entrepreneurial spirit on campus. Many students are inspired to launch their own startups or engage in groundbreaking research that addresses real-world problems.

The vibrant ecosystem fosters the exchange of ideas between academics and industry professionals. This synergy not only enriches Stanford’s curriculum but also propels it to a leadership position in technological advancement. The result? A continuous cycle of innovation that transforms education and technology at every turn.

Harvard University Named the #1 College by College Raptor for 2024

November 25, 2024 / canmydog / 2 Comments

In College Raptor’s 2024 list of the 50 Best Colleges in America, Harvard University sits at the top! Regularly ranked among the best schools in the country, College Raptor’s rankings consider several factors when choosing the best colleges and universities. These factors include diversity, endowment, graduation rates, student-to-faculty ratios, first-year retention rates, and more.

A Brief History of Harvard

A private Ivy League research university, Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally founded as Harvard College (named for its benefactor, John Harvard) in 1636, by the 1800s, the school was already one of the most prestigious among Boston’s elite. Women were admitted in the late 19th century, and the school experienced rapid growth throughout the 20th century.

Why is Harvard a Top-Rated School? Harvard students and faculty are world-renowned for their outstanding academic achievements. Home to state-of-the-art facilities and libraries, the university provides numerous research opportunities and conducts groundbreaking research in a number of fields. Harvard also has a strong sense of tradition, a large alumni network, a low student-to-faculty ratio, and a robust financial aid program.

Harvard University has produced Presidents of the United States, living billionaires, Olympians (who have won 110 medals), Fulbright Scholars, Rhode Scholars, and others who have excelled in their fields. Students and faculty are committed to research, innovation, public service, and learning as a whole. The university is also known for its outstanding traditions and outstanding athletic programs.

Also Read: Here’s How Stanford University Has Helped Develop Silicon Valley

Here’s How to Give Yourself a Chance at Getting into Harvard?

Approximately 61,000 students applied to Harvard University in 2022 – and only 3% were accepted. To say Harvard is highly selective is an understatement! It’s incredibly difficult to get into the school, so planning is a must.

Here are some tips to increase your chances of getting that coveted Harvard University acceptance letter:

1. Excel on the SAT/ACT

Harvard University doesn’t technically require these tests, but they strongly recommend that students submit their SAT or ACT scores because they prefer to do so. On average, Harvard students who are accepted have an ACT Composite score between 34-35 or between 1,500-1,550 on the SAT. Taking practice tests, working on your weaknesses, and partnering with a tutor can help improve your score on these exams.

2. Get High Grades, Have a Full Schedule, and Be Enthusiastic About Learning

A 4.0 isn’t enough to improve your chances of getting into Harvard. Students need to earn high grades on a tight schedule. This means taking tough classes like Advanced Placement (AP) and doing well. Students should also take steps to learn outside of the classroom through extracurricular activities, internships, and other opportunities.

3. Make Your Application as Strong as Possible

To stand out, your application needs to show why you would be an outstanding addition to Harvard. Not only should you list all of your accomplishments and activities, but you’ll also need a stellar essay and stellar letters of recommendation.

4. Highlight Community Involvement

Harvard also values students who are involved outside of the classroom, who demonstrate leadership, and who are committed to improving the world around them. Athletics, student clubs, and volunteer work will all help your application tremendously!

5. Get in Early

Did you know that applying through Early Action can actually increase your chances of getting in? Applications are non-binding, so you can also apply to other schools through Early Action. However, it’s important to note that more students are applying early these days, so competition will remain fierce.

Harvard University has a history of nearly 400 years, is globally renowned for its academic programs and research, and produces students who continue to achieve amazing things. It’s clear from the statistics why Harvard is a top-ranked school for 2024! Learn more about Harvard University, its admissions opportunities, costs, and more here.