top of page
DPS94_edited.jpg

College Guides

Finding your path after high school can feel confusing and we’re here to help. These guides offer clear, simple
resources for students, caregivers, and families to navigate college, financial aid, and career options. 


Whether you’re a student or a caring adult supporting one, you’ll find trusted information and easy next steps
right here. 

College Planning Guides

Guides to help you plan for college and
understand financial aid options like
grants, loans, and scholarships.

Financial Aid Guides

A complete guide to understanding
financial aid options and how to pay for
college, including loans and scholarships

Start Here: What You Need To Know First

Before diving into everything else, these essential guides cover the basics every student and family should know as they plan for life after high school. Start here for clear, simple explanations of important terms, deadlines, and steps in the college process.

DPS87_edited_edited.jpg

College Process Glossary

Get familiar with the common terms you’ll encounter throughout the college planning process. 

DPS117_edited_edited.jpg

Financial Aid Glossary

An easy guide to financial aid terms, breaking down what you need to know about scholarships, loans, grants, and more. 

DPS55_edited_edited.jpg

College Application Checklist:
(Summer Start)

Get a head start on your college plans with this step-by-step checklist designed to keep you organized and on track. Start early, keep track of deadlines, and check off tasks as you go. 

First-Generation Students

Comprehensive Summary of the Financial Aid Guide for First-Generation Students Purpose The guide offers a roadmap for first-generation, low-income high school students to explore financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, to reduce the financial burden of college. It emphasizes planning, organization, and early action to secure funding for higher education. Key Sections and Highlights 1. Starting Your Scholarship Search When to Start: Begin searchi

Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)

Exploring Diverse College Pathways W hat is ROTC? The ROTC program trains students to become officers in the U.S.military by offering scholarship opportunities, military training, andleadership development alongside their academic studies. Upon graduation, students are commissioned to serve in their respective military branches(Army, Navy, and Air Force) Why Should I Consider ROTC Programs? Scholarships f or full or partial tuition and extra fee coverage Additional aid availa

Community College

Exploring Diverse College Pathways What is Community College? Community colleges are public institutions that offeraffordable, high-quality education and a wide range of optionsand pathways to success for local high school graduates. NC Community College System offers options including two-year associate degrees, transfer programs to universities, certificates, apprenticeships, etc. Why Should I Consider Community College? Cost-Effective options Higher admissions rate with t

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

Exploring Diverse Pathways What Are HBCUs? HBCUs are higher education institutions established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to serve African American students. HBCUs provide a distinct college experience, combining rigorous academics with a strong sense of cultural heritage and community. North Carolina has the second-highest number of HBCUs in the country, offering a wide range of academic programs and opportunities. Why Should I Consider HBCUs? Strong sense of cultur

Timeline And Cheklist

College Admissions Checklist 1. Start Early  Begin preparing the summer before your senior year. Starting early helps manage deadlines, refine applications, and minimize stress. Staying organized and methodical is key.  2. Gather Personal Information (June)  Step 1: Collect essential personal documents for applications , such as:  Personal Information (legal name, date of birth, contact information) Transcripts and education history Social Security number (if applicable) Imm

College Process: Glossary of Terms

Glossary of terms  Social Security Number (SSN) : A nine-digit number issued to U.S. citizens, permanentresidents, and temporary workers for identification and record-keeping purposes.  Transcripts : An official academic record listing the courses taken and the grades received.  Common App (Common Application) : A standardized online application used by manyU.S. colleges and universities. Students fill it out once and can submit it to multiple schoolswithout re-entering infor

Financial Aid Process: Glossary of Terms

Dependent Student: A student who relies on parental financial support and must provide their parents' financial information when applying for FAFSA. DACA (Differed Action for Childhood Arrivals): Federal program that provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization for undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children. Extracurricular Activities: Non-academic activities such as sports, volunteering, or clubs that are considered in scholars

Looking For Quick Answers? 

Check out these easy-to-read posts for fast, helpful info pulled from our guides. Find what matters to you, no downloads needed! 

The Durham Scholars Hub - 2025

A Durham Academic Success Alliance Initiative

Have questions? Reach out to Dasiane@bullcityschools.org

All photos courtesy of Durham Public Schools.

DPSFLogoHorz_Color.png
bottom of page