College Finance Glossary for Students and Parents
Definitions of all things student finance related.

FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid
MINDS CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING. We make sure they get to college. Federal Student Aid provides more than $150 billion each year in grants, loans, and work-study funds to make college possible for anyone with the mind to get there. Grants, loans and the ability to qualify for work study jobs on campus all come from filling out the FAFSA.

ISAC - Illinois Student Assistance Commission
ISAC aims to help in Improving the High School to College Transition for Students in Need and Providing Support to Students in College or Returning to College

Career Cruising
Career Cruising is a self-exploration and planning program that helps people of all ages achieve their potential in school, career and life. Every Serena High School student has a free account with Career Cruising. If you do not know your login information, please see the guidance counselor for assistance.

College Board
Each year, the College Board helps more than seven million students prepare for a successful transition to college through programs and services in college readiness and college success — including the SAT and the Advanced Placement Program. The organization also serves the education community through research and advocacy on behalf of students, educators and schools. Students can set up a free account to access resources that will help prepare them for the SAT and AP tests.

SAT
The SAT by College Board is the new standardized test for Illinois. Every high school junior will take this exam in April. All colleges and universities will accept the student's SAT score for entrance into their institution. This site provides information on the test as well as free test prep materials.

Khan Academy
Our mission is to provide a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere. This resource is a wonderful site that provides free tutoring through the use of video instruction. Link your free Khan account with your College Board account and input your SAT, PSAT 8/9 or PSAT NMSQT scores to receive a personalized learning plan that will help improve your scores.

ACT
Although the ACT was replaced as the state standardized test, it is still a relevant test for students looking to gain admission into college. The ACT is based on what students learn in high school and provides personalized information about their strengths for education and career planning. Information regarding test prep, national testing dates and sending scores to colleges/universities can be found on this site.

Please click on the link below for a great article for all students and parents.First Generation College Students Resource