Counselors’ Corner
Guidance, College, & Career-Related Information & Opportunities
OLSH CEEB Code: 390845
Students must provide the OLSH College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) Code when registering for the ACT or SAT, and may be asked to enter the code on college applications.
Academic Review Days for 2024-25
Academic review days are scheduled at the midpoint of each quarter. On those days, teacher advisers will review the grades of their advisees (students). Meetings with students and/or parents will be set up as necessary. Any senior failing a course at that time will be placed into assigned study halls for the remainder of the quarter.
Q1 (08/20/24 - 10/24/24) Academic review day: Friday, September 20, 2024
Q2 (10/28/24 - 01/16/25) Academic review day: Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Q3 (01/21/25 - 03/27/25) Academic review day: Friday, February 21, 2025
Q4 (04/01/25 - 06/06/25) Academic review day: Friday, May 2, 2025
NCAA Eligibility for College-Bound Athletes
If you are a current junior or senior who plans to participate in Division I or II athletics in college, please talk to your school counselor about having your transcript submitted to the NCAA Eligibility Center. Transcripts should be submitted at the end of your junior year, and again after high school graduation. Current seniors who did not submit a transcript to the NCAA at the end of junior year should request a transcript upload as soon as possible.
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS TESTING
SAT/ACT Information
Test Date: March 8, 2025 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: February 21 (regular); February 25 (late)
Test Date: May 3, 2025 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: April 18 (regular); April 22 (late)
Test Date: June 7, 2025 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: May 22 (regular); May 27 (late)
ACT Dates for 2024-25
Test Date: February 8, 2025 Registration Deadlines: January 3 (regular); January 20 (late)
Test Date: April 5, 2025 Registration Deadlines: February 28 (regular); March 16 (late)
Test Date: June 14, 2025 Registration Deadlines: May 9 (regular); May 26 (late)
Test Date: July 12, 2025 Registration Deadlines: June 6 (regular); June 20 (late)
IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING TEST DAY PROCEDURE
Students must present a valid photo ID on the day of the SAT and ACT tests. Accepted IDs include a current, unexpired school year ID, Drivers License, or Passport. If you do not have ID, please see Mrs. Pihlblad or Mrs. Woynar as soon as possible. If you do not have an acceptable photo ID, you will NOT be admitted into the test.
SAT/ACT Accommodations
If your child has a documented disability, he or she may be eligible for certain accommodations on the ACT or SAT. Accommodations for the SAT must be requested six to eight weeks in advance of the testing date. If you are interested in applying for accommodations for either test, please contact your child’s school counselor to initiate the process.
|
Mrs. Darcy Pihlblad
School Counselor A-L
412-262-3975
|
Mrs. Regina Woynar
Director of Counseling Services
School Counselor M-Z
412-264-4650
|
SAT & ACT Test Prep
Over the past ten years,
Goldstein Test Prep has worked with over 130 OLSH students, counseled families through the testing process, and helped students achieve sizable gains. To view current in-person and virtual course offerings, please visit the the
Goldstein Test Prep website or contact program director Mike Goldstein at
[email protected] or at 412-874-7645.
This summer, two sections of an
online SAT Prep Course are being offered by Aaron Ventresca. Mr. Ventresca is a 2020 graduate of
North Catholic High School and a 2024 graduate of
Princeton University. He is also on track to graduate from the
Yale School of Management in 2026. According to Mr. Ventresca, students who complete his SAT Prep Course typically see an increase of over 150 points in their scores, and some have achieved admission to top schools as well as merit scholarships of over $100,000. The online course will meet on
Wednesdays from 7:00 - 8:30 PM, from June 11 - July 9 (Section 1) or July 16 - August 13 (Section 2). Students will receive expert instruction by Ivy League tutors, full-length diagnostic tests and score reports, strategies for both the English and Math sections of the test, and weekly practice drills and take-home materials. The cost of the course is $460, and includes all materials.
Students who register by May 31 will receive a 15% discount! For more information or to register, call/text or email Mr. Ventresca at 724-719-5501 or
[email protected]. A flyer containing details about the course is posted below.
SAT or ACT? How to Choose and Prepare
Students often wonder which college readiness exam--the SAT or the ACT--is best suited to their particular test-taking strengths.
This article by David Huemer of
Your College Strategies, LLC gives very specific advice about which test to choose based on a student's strengths and weaknesses. Mr. Huemer also offers helpful test-taking strategies for both exams, and tips on how to prepare.
When to Submit -- or NOT Submit -- SAT and ACT Scores
Even before COVID-19, many colleges and universities had adopted a "test score optional" admissions policy. Since the start of the pandemic, however, a large percentage of schools have announced that they are no longer requiring applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores. Click
here to read about the factors you should consider when deciding whether or not to submit your scores.
COLLEGE AND CAREER EVENTS AND INFORMATION
Enrollment Soars at Catholic Colleges
While overall college enrollment nationwide has been declining since 2010, enrollment at authentically Catholic colleges continues to increase. Click here to read more about this encouraging trend in Catholic higher education.
College Admissions Visits at OLSH
Each year, admissions representatives from more than 50 colleges, universities, trade schools and military organizations visit OLSH to speak with interested students. Juniors and seniors are eligible to attend these college information sessions, with a limit of ten sessions per student, per academic year.
Juniors and seniors who wish to attend one of these sessions should email Mrs. Kelly Pontiere, Counseling and Admissions Assistant, at
[email protected] at least one day in advance of the event.
The names of students who sign up for college admissions visits will be published on the Attendance List each morning. Teachers always have the option of denying a student permission to attend due a test, review, project, or poor class performance or attendance.
While the majority of college admissions visits occur during the fall semester, some schools do schedule in the spring, so keep checking back for more listings!
| Day |
Date |
Pd. |
School |
| Mon. |
8/26 |
3 |
Emerson College (MA) - VIRTUAL VISIT |
| Mon. |
9/9 |
3 |
Saint Vincent College (PA) |
| Wed. |
9/11 |
3 |
Westminster College (PA) (Will be rescheduled. Date TBA.) |
| Wed. |
9/11 |
8 |
Washington & Jefferson College (PA)
|
| |
|
|
INSTANT ADMISSION DECISION AVAILABLE FOR SENIORS WITH UNWEIGHTED GPAs of 3.0 AND ABOVE!
|
| Tues. |
9/17 |
3 |
Michigan State University |
| Tues. |
9/17 |
4 |
Penn State University |
| Wed. |
9/18 |
8 |
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
|
| Wed, |
9/18 |
9 |
Wheeling University (WV) (formerly Wheeling Jesuit)
|
| Fri. |
9/20 |
8 |
Loyola University Maryland
|
| Fri. |
9/20 |
9 |
Chatham University (PA)
|
| Mon. |
9/30 |
4 |
Centre College (KY)
|
| Tues. |
10/1 |
3 |
Duquesne University (PA)
|
| Tues. |
10/1 |
4 |
The Catholic University of America (Washington, D.C.) |
| Tues. |
10/1 |
9 |
PennWest California (formerly California University of PA) |
| Wed. |
10/2 |
3 |
Carnegie Mellon University (PA)
|
| Wed. |
10/2 |
9 |
Villanova University (PA) |
| Thurs. |
10/3 |
4 |
Robert Morris University (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
1 |
Franklin & Marshall College (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
3 |
Ursinus College (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
4 |
Seton Hall University (NJ) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
8 |
Marist College (NY) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
8 |
Saint Mary's College (Notre Dame, IN) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
9 |
University of Toledo (OH) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
2 |
Manor College (PA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
3 |
George Mason University (VA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
3 |
Walsh University (OH) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
4 |
Rosemont College (PA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
8 |
Northeastern University (MA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
9 |
Seton Hill University (PA) |
| Thurs. |
10/10 |
3 |
Binghamton University (NY) |
| Thurs. |
10/10 |
8 |
Regent University (VA) |
| Thurs. |
10/10 |
9 |
Boston College (MA) |
| Fri. |
10/11 |
3 |
Slippery Rock University (PA) |
| Fri. |
10/11 |
4 |
Dickinson College (PA) |
| Fri. |
10/11 |
8 |
Saint Francis University (PA) |
| Mon. |
10/14 |
4 |
Community College of Allegheny County (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/15 |
8 |
United States Navy |
| Wed. |
10/16 |
4 |
University of Dallas (TX) To be rescheduled due to PSAT. Date and time TBA. |
| Mon. |
10/21 |
8 |
Sweet Briar College (VA) |
| Tues. |
10/22 |
8 |
St. Bonaventure University (NY) |
| Wed. |
10/23 |
9 |
John Carroll University (OH) |
| Tues. |
10/29 |
8 |
Carlow University (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/29 |
9 |
Gannon University (PA) |
| Wed. |
11/13 |
3 |
Bryant University (RI) |
| Mon. |
11/18 |
9 |
Community College of Allegheny County (PA) - Virtual Visit |
| Fri. |
1/24 |
8 |
Rosedale Technical College (PA) |
| Wed. |
2/12 |
8 |
The College of St. Joseph the Worker (OH) |
| Mon. |
2/24 |
9 |
University of Valley Forge (PA) |
| Fri. |
4/4 |
4 |
Ulster University (Belfast, Northern Ireland) |
| Fri. |
4/4 |
8 |
Earlham College (IN) |
| Wed. |
4/23 |
4 |
PennWest University (PA) |
College Admissions Events
Please note: School with asterisks (*) after their names have been identified as faithful Catholic colleges by the Cardinal Newman Society. To learn more about the Cardinal Newman Society's recommended Catholic colleges and universities, click here.
American University (Washington, D.C.)
Preview Day
In-Person and Virtual Campus Tours Register
Arizona State University
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Ave Maria University (FL) *
The Ave Maria Experience
When you visit the Ave Maria University, you’ll notice some extraordinary things—our world-class professors, our authentically Catholic culture, how we come together to serve others. This is the Ave Maria community and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Our beautiful campus is nestled in South Florida just 40 minutes from Naples. When you visit, you’ll immediately feel at home. Come see what makes Ave Maria so special!
Weekday and Saturday Campus Tours Register
Belmont Abbey College (NC) *
Abby Experience Open House
On-campus and virtual visits Register
Benedictine College (KS) *
Raven Day Campus Visits
January 20; February 17; March 28; April 14 & 25 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Opportunities throughout the Year Register
Boston University (MA)
Winter Visit Day
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options
Register
Bowling Green State University (OH)
Presidents Day Open House
Bridgewater College (VA)
Open House
January 18; February 18 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Bucknell University (PA)
Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Capital University (OH)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Carlow University (PA)
Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Carnegie Mellon University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
The Catholic University of America (Washington, D.C.) *
In-Person and Virtual Visit Opportunities Register
Case Western Reserve University (OH)
Spring Open House
February 14; March 28; April 4, 11 & 18
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Chatham University (PA)
Saturday Visit Days
March 15 & 22; April 26 Register
In-person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Clemson University (SC)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Christendom College (VA) *
Open House
February 22; April 26
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Coastal Carolina University (SC)
Discover Coastal Open House
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
Columbus College of Art & Design (OH)
Drexel University (PA)
Undergraduate Open House
Spring 2025 Open House Dates TBA
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Duquesne University (PA)
Junior Preview Day
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Elizabethtown College (PA)
Fall Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Elon University (NC)
Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Franciscan University of Steubenville (OH) *
On-Campus Visits Register
Gannon University (PA)
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
George Mason University (VA)
Junior Visit Day
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
Grove City College (PA)
Spring Preview Day
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Heritage Valley Kennedy School of Nursing (PA)
High Point University (NC)
Open House
March 29; July 12; Aug. 9; Sept. 27; Oct. 18; Nov. 1 & 22 Register
In-Person and Virtual Tours Register
James Madison University (VA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
John Carroll University (OH)
Spring Preview Day
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Admissions Events Register
La Roche University (PA)
Open House
Spring 2025 Date TBA
Meet faculty, explore majors and see campus firsthand.
- Learn about the admissions process and financial aid.
- Explore study abroad opportunities that are included as part of your La Roche experience.
- Hear from current students.
- Tour campus and scope out residence halls.
- Enjoy brunch in our dining hall.
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Lehigh University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Loyola University Chicago (IL)
In-Person and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Loyola University Maryland
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Madonna University (MI)
Like OLSH, Madonna University is a ministry of the Felician Sisters.
In-Person and Virtual Visit Opportunities Register
Miami University of Ohio
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Misericordia University (PA)
Spring Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Neumann University (PA)
Preview Day Open House
Sunday, April 27, 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM Register
You and your family are invited to our Open House. Learn about Neumann University's academic program offerings, campus life, and professional internships. Tour campus with our Neumann Navigators, and meet with members of the campus community. This is college as a Neumann Knight!
Niagara University (NY)
Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Ohio University
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Penn State (Main Campus)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Penn State Beaver
Campus Visit Program Register
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Open House
March 1; April 6
Register
PennWest University (formerly California, Clarion, and Edinboro Universities)
Open House - All Campuses
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options - All Campuses Register
Point Park University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Princeton University (NJ)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options
Register
Rider University (NJ)
Open House
Sunday, April 27 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Robert Morris University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Rochester Institute of Technology (NY)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Rosedale Technical College (PA)
Open House
March 22 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
RegisterWomen in the Trades Days
Wednesday, April 9 & Wednesday, April 30
Saint Francis University (PA)
Spring Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Saint Vincent College (PA)
Open House
February 8; March 15; June 14; August 7 Register
Saturday Information Sessions
February 1;
April, 26; May 17; July 19 RegisterCampus Tour & Visit Options. Register
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) (GA)
SCAD Day Open House Events (Savannah)
February 15; April 5
RegisterSCAD Day Open House Events (Atlanta)
Seton Hall University (NJ)
Undergraduate Open House
February 16; April 27 Register
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Seton Hill University (PA)
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
Slippery Rock University (PA)
Open House
April 26; June 21 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Southeastern University (FL)
SEU Preview Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options
Register
Syracuse University (NY)
Orange Preview Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Temple University (PA)
Open House
September 28; October 6 & 26 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Thomas Aquinas College (MA & CA) *
In-Person and Virtual Visits Register
The Thomas More College of Liberal Arts (NH) *
In-Person Visits Register
University College Dublin
Virtual Open House - North America
Saturday, November 16, 2024 1:00 PM EST
RegisterHave you ever thought about studying in Ireland? University College Dublin, Ireland's global university, invites all interested students to attend a Virtual Open House this fall, to see what opportunities await you in beautiful Ireland! We consider this essential viewing for all undergraduate applicants from North America. The one hour event will take place on Zoom and will feature information on:
- Introductions to your US based supports
- UCD's application process and timeline
- Scholarship Opportunities and US Federal Aid process
- Current North American students sharing advice, experiences, and campus life
- Breakout rooms to learn more about the academic programmes and current students in those majors
- Q&A
University of Alabama
Bama in Your Town - Pittsburgh Edition Register
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at 6:30
Location: Cadence at the Strip, 2400 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Event Description: We invite you to join us to meet your local recruiters and representatives from UA's top academic departments, as well as future classmates from your area.
Campus Visit Options Register
University of Dallas (TX) *
Odyssey Day Open House (for seniors)
Crusader Preview Open House (for juniors)
On-Campus and Virtual Visits Register
University of Dayton (OH)
Fall Preview Day
Other In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Delaware
Blue and Golden Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Kentucky
Big Blue Open House
November 11 & 15 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Mary (ND) *
In-Person and Virtual Visit Days Register
University of Notre Dame
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Pittsburgh
Fall Blue and Gold Days
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University at Buffalo (State University of New York)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Scranton (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of St. Thomas, Houston (TX) *
University of Virginia
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Vanderbilt University (TN)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Villanova University (PA)
Fall Preview Days
Virginia Tech
Fall Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Walsh University (OH) *
Discover Walsh Open House
Campus Visit Days & Daily Campus Tours Register
Washington & Jefferson College (PA)
Discovery Day Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
West Virginia University
Discover WVU Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Westminster College (PA)
On-Campus, Virtual and Saturday Visits Register
Widener University (PA)
Widener Day Open House
Visit Opportunities for Undergraduate Students Register
Wyoming Catholic College *
Xavier University (OH)
On-Campus and Virtual Admissions Tours and Presentations Register
Youngstown State University (OH)
Penguin Preview Day (Open House)
Friday, February 14, 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
RegisterOther In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Making The Most of Your Virtual College Tour
What questions should you ask on your virtual campus tour? What are the important aspects of college for you to consider? Click
here for advice on how to make the most of virtual admissions events.
CampusReel College Search Website Features Student-Made Videos
CampusReel is an online college search tool unlike any other. The site features a collection of more than 10,000 student-made videos that enable students to picture themselves on campus, find their best fit, and get excited about researching colleges. To access the videos, create your free account
here.
Choosing a Major
- Click here to read about the 10 College Majors with the Highest Salaries for Graduates.
- Click here to read about the The 10 worst-paying college majors, five years after graduation.
- Before choosing a college major, check out this article about the most and LEAST regretted choices, according to graduated students.
- Does it really matter if students graduate from a prestigious university? Liz Weston of NerdWallet argues that the choice of major is far more important. You can read the article here.
How Extracurricular Activities Affect College Admissions
You may have been told that participating in sports, clubs, service organizations and other activities will help boost your chances of being accepted to your favorite college or university. While this is true, does that mean you need to exhaust yourself with numerous extracurricular activities in order to have a shot at acceptance? Read
this article to find out what colleges are really looking for when it comes to your out-of-school pursuits.
What to Do If You've Been Waitlisted
Have you been put on the waitlist for one or more of the colleges to which you've applied? If so, it can be difficult to know whether or not to accept other offers, or hold out hope for your dream school. Take a look at
this article for some advice about what to do if you have been waitlisted.
Understanding the Common App
Did you know that the Common App is now accepted by more than 900 colleges and universities? While the Common App is a convenient and cost-effective way for students to submit college applications, the process of completing it can sometimes be confusing. Click here for a general overview of the Common App and why students should consider using it. Click here to read 5 Tips on Completing the Common Application.
7 Warning Signs an Online Degree Is a Scam
Education, Training, and Career FAIRS
Junior Achievement of Western PA Virtual Career FairJA Inspire® is a
free virtual career fair for grades 7-12 designed to provide students with valuable insights into the various career paths and opportunities available to them. This event will remain open from October 15 – June 15, 2025, allowing every student to explore exciting industries, engage in fun activities, and watch inspiring webinars as much as they like during the 2024-25 school year. The virtual career fair is an option for OLSH students who are not able to join the OLSH JA Activity Period or attend the other JA classes offered this year. Participation in
JA Inspire® can count as a JA scholarship program requirement as long as the student completes the survey for the Career Fair. To learn more about
JA Inspire®, click
here. Students who have questions or are interested in participating should email Renee Price at
[email protected].
Future Pilot Seminars for Aspiring Pilots
Future & Active Pilot Advisors (FAPA) Future Pilot Seminars are free, in-person career seminars providing future professional pilots of all ages with objective and independent information about a flying career. FAPA focuses on career changers, students of all ages (and their parents, teachers and school counselors) and separating military personnel (fixed wing, rotor and non-aviation) interested in learning about pathways to a career as a professional pilot.
Do you want to be a Professional Pilot?Has a career in the cockpit been on your mind, but you are unsure of how and where to start?
FAPA can help! Register for one of our
FREE Future Pilot Seminars and learn about this ever-present, yet seemingly-elusive industry. Lunch will be provided to attendees.
We will discuss the state of the pilot industry, the educational and certificate requirements, choosing the flight school or college right for you, and the various pathways to a rewarding career. We will also have flight training providers present to discuss the details of their training courses, pathway programs, and partnerships. FAPA Advisors and professional pilots will be on-hand to answer your questions, as well as talk about the training required and pathways to a pilot career. The doors will open around 9:30 AM and the first presentation will begin at 10:30 AM. Lunch served around noon.
Here are a few things to know if you are thinking about becoming a pilot:
- Professional pilots DO NOT need to have perfect and uncorrected vision.
- The military is NOT the only – or even the preferred – route anymore.
- Straight As in math and science are NOT required.
- Aviation is not just a STEM career; pilots come from LAS, creative and performing arts backgrounds as well.
- A 4-year degree is NOT required.
Upcoming FREE FAPA Future Pilot Seminars:
Future Pilot Seminars begins at 2 PM. Click here for more information or to register.
- January 18 Orlando, FL (Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek)
- February 22 Dallas, TX (Sheraton DFW Airport)
- March 15 San Diego, CA (Marriott Marquis Sand Diego Marina)
- April 26 Atlanta, GA (TBA)
- May 17 Chicago, IL (The Westin O'Hare)
- June 14 Charlotte, NC (Sonesta Charlotte Executive Park)
- July 12 Denver, CO (TBA)
- August 23 New York, NY (TBA)
- September 20 Dallas, TX (TBA)
- October 18 Tampa Bay/St. Pete's, FL (TBA)
- November 22 Phoenix, AZ (TBA)
- December 13 Fort Lauderdale, FL (TBA)
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
The 2025-26 FAFSA in now OPEN!
If you are the parent of a senior who is planning to pursue post-secondary education at a college, university, trade or technical school, you may apply for federal student aid by filling out the
Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or
FAFSA. The new, simplified
2025-26 FAFSA--which was scheduled to open on December 1, 2024--has been opened early during the beta testing period. That means you may complete and submit your FAFSA now. Click
here to begin.
See the FAFSA Tipsheet attached below for helpful advice and instructions for filling out the 2025-26 FAFSA!
BEFORE filling out the FAFSA, the student applying for aid (and at least one parent) each need to create an
FSA ID. The federal government has recently produced a helpful
video that will walk you through the process of creating an FSA ID. It can take
up to three days for new FAFSA IDs to be confirmed, so make sure you allow time for that before you plan to fill out the FAFSA.
See the FAFSA Tipsheet attached below for helpful advice and instructions for filling out the 2025-26 FAFSA.
Click
here for a handy checklist of
documents and information you will need to complete the FAFSA.
Click
here to read about how to avoid
ten common mistakes people make when filling out the FAFSA!
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) Events
Upcoming FAFSA Completion Workshops
In-Person FAFSA Completion Workshop
Robert Morris University – UPMC Events Center 2nd Floor
6001 University Blvd, Moon Twp, 15108
Tuesday, February 4th
4:30-6:45 PM
In-Person FAFSA Completion Workshop
Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Pittsburgh
5738 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Monday, February 10th
6:00-7:30 PM
Virtual FAFSA Completion Workshop
Event with take place virtually via Microsoft Teams
Wednesday, February 19th
5:00-7:00 PM
PHEAA Webinars
Throughout the year, PHEAA conducts free webinars on a variety of college financial aid topics. Webinars titles include:
-
-
- Creating Your Federal Student Aid Account (FSA ID)
- Financial Aid Timeline - Know What to Do When
- Borrow for Education - What Loan Is Right for Me
- Financial Aid and Planning Q & A
- Understanding the (Financial Aid) Offer Letter and Balances
- PHEAA Keystone Student Loan Program
- Searching for Scholarship
- PA State Grant Completion Workshop
Click
here to see a list of upcoming PHEAA webinars with registration links
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) Resources
- Student Aid Index -- The Student Aid Index (SAI) is the eligibility index number that your college’s or career school’s financial aid office uses to determine how much federal aid you’re eligible to receive. You can use this Financial Aid Quiz to estimate the range of your Student Aid Index.
- Calculating Cost – Families can estimate the cost of various colleges via the Net Price Calculator (NPC) at collegecost.ed.
-
“Who’s the Parent on the FAFSA Form?” Wizard -- A new,
stand-alone tool helps students and families determine who will need to provide contributor information on the 2025–26 FAFSA form prior to starting the application.
-
Pro Tips for Completing the FAFSA Form -- This
resource provides updated tips for preparing to complete and submit the FAFSA form; it will also link from the StudentAid.gov Dashboard to promote easier access for students and their required contributors.
Pennsylvania's Low-Cost Way to Pay for College
A
PA Forward Education Loan can provide affordable options for current seniors and new graduates to pay for college. Learn more
here.
How to Capture a 529 Tax Break When A Student Is in College
Did you know that you can get a tax break by depositing money into a 529 account
for as little as 24 hours before using it to pay for college tuition? Click
here to learn more.
Financial Aid: How to Ask Colleges for More Money
Did you know it is possible to negotiate your financial aid package? Read this article from
Money magazine to learn
how to ask colleges for more money (and get it).
Are you wondering how to increase the scholarship dollars you receive as part of your financial aid package(s)? This article in Forbes magazine explains
how high school students can maximize merit-based college financial aid.
TuitionFit Provides True College Cost InformationStudents often have to wait until after they apply and are accepted to find out a college’s actual price. But what’s the point of applying to a school unless you already know that you can afford it?
TuitionFit makes solving that problem easy by letting students and families share the individual college offers they receive.
TuitionFit organizes and anonymously displays that data so that students can all compare real-time college prices. They keep your identity absolutely safe while creating a catalog of colleges' actual prices offered to students like you. Now you can see real college prices and decide whether to apply elsewhere, negotiate a better price, or take the offer you’ve got. Best of all, it's free to create an account. To learn more, please click
here.
Registering for Selective Service
Did you know that in order to be eligible for Federal Student Aid, all young men 18-25 years of age must register for Selective Service? The law says men must register with Selective Service within 30 days of their 18th birthday. That means men are required to register with Selective Service sometime during the 30 days before their 18th birthday, their 18th birthday, and the following 29 days after their 18th birthday – a 60-day registration period. Men who do not register with Selective Service within the 60-day window are technically in violation of the law and should register as soon as possible. Registration is quick and easy. Just have your Social Security Number ready and fill out this
online registration form. Male students 18 years of age and older who have not registered for Selective Service will be prompted to do so while filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
CONTESTS AND AWARDS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Science without Borders® Challenge - International Student Art ContestThe
Science Without Borders® Challenge is an international contest that engages students and teachers in ocean conservation through art. This annual competition inspires students to be creative while promoting public awareness of the need to preserve, protect, and restore the world’s oceans and aquatic resources, contributing to the overarching goals of the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation. The Challenge is open to primary and secondary school students 11-19 years old, with scholarships of up to $500 awarded to the winning entries.
The 2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge
The theme for the 2025 Science without Borders® Challenge is “Marine Keystone Species.” Keystone species play a crucial role in keeping ocean ecosystems healthy and balanced. To apply for this year’s contest, students should submit artwork featuring a keystone species that lives in the ocean, highlighting this creature’s vital role in its marine ecosystem.
Prizes
Winners of the Science Without Borders® Challenge will be awarded with the following scholarships:
1st Place: $500
2nd Place: $350
3rd Place: $200
We also offer a “People’s Choice” award, in which the winners in each age group receive a $50 scholarship.
Eligibility
This international art competition is open to all students 11-19 years old. Students must be enrolled in primary or secondary school, or the home school equivalent. College and university students are not eligible for this contest.
Work will be judged in two categories based on age, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes awarded for each:
Students 11-14 years old
Students 15-19 years old
How to ApplyTo apply to the 2025 Science Without Borders Challenge, fill out the online entry form, upload a picture of your artwork, and make sure everything is submitted before the deadline! If you are under the age of 13, your parents will be asked to provide consent, so make sure not to wait until the last minute. Before applying, check out our Tips for Success for suggestions on how to make the most of your application, such as how to write a compelling artist’s statement that describes how your artwork relates to this year’s theme. Click
here for complete contest rules an an application link.
Deadline: March 3, 2025
ACADEMIC AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University
The Pennsylvania Department of Education is pleased to announce that the Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University is now accepting applications from talented high school juniors for the summer 2025 program. PGSS is an intensive, five-week summer residential program that emphasizes cooperative learning and hands-on laboratory research for high school juniors pursuing careers in science and mathematics. With the support of Governor Josh Shapiro, the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Carnegie Mellon University and its alumni, the program offers an enrichment experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The goal of the program is to encourage Pennsylvania’s youth to pursue careers in STEM-related fields. Accepted applicants will receive a full scholarship to the program. Costs are underwritten through matching funds provided by PGSS Campaign, Inc., the school’s alumni, Carnegie Mellon University, parents, and corporations. Awarded scholarships will cover the costs of housing, meals, and all instructional materials. Families are responsible for transportation to and from the university, personal items, and spending money. Students must commit to living on campus at Carnegie Mellon University throughout the duration of the program.
When: June 22, 2025 - July 26, 2025
Where: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Who May Apply: The program is open to high school juniors at time of application who attend a public, nonpublic, or private school or are homeschooled.
Deadline to Apply: Completed applications must be emailed per instructions on the Carnegie Mellon University - Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences webpage no later than January 31, 2025. Applications emailed after this date and time will be disqualified.
For additional information, or to apply please go to the
Governor's School for the Sciences webpage.
Future Leaders in Public Service Conference at Harvard University
Future Leaders in Public Service (FLIPS) is a 2-day conference on Harvard’s campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts for high schoolers who aspire to be our nation’s future leaders in fields of public service, which encompass government, sustainability, education, justice reform, the nonprofit sector, and more. The conference will take place April 13-14, 2025. The tuition for the conference is $210, but partial and full scholarships are available to students who demonstrate need.
During the conference, high school students are placed in small groups, each led by a current Harvard College student, providing a unique opportunity for mentorship and leadership development. Attendees experience a glimpse of college life at a top university, hone personal goals, and cultivate skills to bring back to their communities and to utilize in their current and future roles as leaders focused on the public good.
At FLIPS, students will have the chance to meet students from across the country. There will be countless growth opportunities, not just educationally, but socially as well. The last day of the conference will also include a college panel where high schoolers’ pressing college questions may be answered from college students themselves.
Students in grades 9-12 (including international students) are eligible to apply. To learn more about FLIPS or to apply, please click
here.
Application Deadline: February 11
City of Pittsburgh Student Police Academy
Registration is now open for the Spring session of the
City of Pittsburgh's Student Police Academy (SPA)! The academy is a 1.5-hour class that meets once a week for 10 weeks, and is open to high school students both in and outside the City of Pittsburgh, including students in public, parochial, religious, private, charter, cyber schools and/or being home schooled. Classes will begin at 6:30 PM, Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Point Park University and will be conducted for 10 weeks. The best part of all of this is that that academy is offered FREE OF CHARGE!!!
The Student Police Academy will expose students in grades 9-12 to a variety of opportunities which they will experience just as if they were cadets training to be police officers in the Pittsburgh Police Academy. Students who complete the academy will:
- Better understand the breadth of education, understanding of policy and governance of relative statues that factor in the various decisions that police officers have to make not only a daily basis...but often within "split seconds."
- Be able to converse with and get to know police officers from our bureau's various divisions (uniform, detectives, bomb squad, S.W.A.T., vice & narcotics, K-9, etc.) not just as law enforcement officers but also as human beings...and vice-verse!
- Learn about potential careers in criminal justice and/or as first responders.
To learn more or complete the online application, click
here. A flyer about the
Student Police Academy is posted below.
Application Deadline: Friday, February 28, 2025
Leadership Summit for High School Girls
Junior Achievement’s 'Empower Her Summit' presented by PPG hosted by The Pittsburgh Pirates will introduce high school girls to interactive workshops led by local female leaders. It is an interactive leadership and life development workshop developed exclusively for high school girls. The Summit will take place on Friday, March 7, 2025 at PNC Park. To learn more and register, please click here. Please contact Mrs. Price at
[email protected] with any questions.
Registration Deadline: 12:00 noon on Friday, February 28, 2025
Summer Writers Workshop at Susquehanna University Experienced writers entering 10–12 grades in the fall of 2025 are eligible to attend the
2025 Summer Writers Workshop, which will take place July 13-19, 2025. An exciting experience now in its 38th summer, this workshop provides America’s most talented high school writers with the opportunity to work in intensive, small-group workshops led by nationally recognized authors. Featuring workshops in fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction,
Susquehanna’s Summer Writers Workshop was selected as a “Best Value in Summer College Programs” by Early College Programs and named one of the 500 best summer programs in the world by Princeton Review. The $875 comprehensive fee includes personalized instruction, room, meals, and all program materials, as well as an anthology including your fiction or poetry mailed to your home. Partial scholarships are available based on financial need and academic performance. To learn more or apply, click
here.
Registration Deadline: July 1, 2025
Watch this space as new information will be added throughout the school year.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Looking for scholarships? While we list a number of scholarship opportunities on this page, we encourage you to take advantage of the following scholarship and financial aid resources as well:
Scholarship opportunities without specific deadlines, or with multiple deadlines:
Scholarships for Class of 2025 High School Seniors
Click
here for FastWeb's list of great scholarships available to members of the Class of 2025!
The College Board has introduced a new scholarship program which has no income, GPA, or SAT score requirements and rewards high school students for taking the necessary steps to plan for college. The
BigFuture Scholarships are now available to Class of 2025 and 2026 high school students who take college planning steps such as building a college list, practicing for the SAT, completing the FAFSA and applying to colleges. Students will earn a chance to win
scholarships of $500–$2,000 by completing up to six individual college planning steps. The more steps they complete, the more scholarships they are eligible to win. Students who complete all six college planning steps will be
eligible to win a $40,000 scholarship! To learn more about the BigFuture Scholarship program, click
here.
Franciscan University of Steubenville (OH) is offering a new St. Pope John Paul II Scholarship which will provide incoming students with the opportunity to earn up to full tuition. Students from the Dioceses of Greensburg, Altoona-Johnstown, Erie, and Pittsburgh are eligible to apply for this scholarship, which has been made possible by the generosity of benefactors from Western Pennsylvania. The St. Pope John Paul II Scholarship is available for incoming students and transfers who meet the following qualifications:
- Graduate with a 3.0 or better from an accredited Catholic high school or homeschool program within the Dioceses of Greensburg, Altoona-Johnstown, Erie, and Pittsburgh.
- Demonstrate financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Franciscan University Financial Aid Office.
To remain eligible for scholarship funding in subsequent years, recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA at Franciscan and actively participate in at least one Catholic faith-based activity. To learn more, please click
here.
Neumann University (PA) is offering a
$3,000 per year, renewable
Catholic High School Grant to any student who meets their admission criteria and enrolls from a Catholic high school. Students are considered for this award at the time of application to the university and will be notified after their admittance to Neumann University. No additional application is required for the award. To learn more, please visit
https://www.neumann.edu/scholarships/.
Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education (
PASSHE) Foundation distributes
scholarships and awards totaling more than $500K annually to our students and universities. Our scholarships support students at every university in the System. Please click
here to visit the Foundation website, create an account, and search for scholarships. For assistance with accounts or applications, please email
[email protected].
Deadlines: Deadlines vary by scholarship.
Applications for The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County scholarships for 2025-26 are now open! Through the generosity of donors, these two organizations manage one of the most robust foundation-led scholarship programs in the country. Each year, they award nearly
$3 million in scholarships from approximately 375 donor-established scholarship funds. They also partner with Scholarship America to provide students with access to many more scholarship opportunities. More than
250 scholarship opportunities for students in grades K-12 may be found on
The Pittsburgh Foundation's scholarship website. Application deadlines will vary.
Scholarship opportunities with specific deadlines:
"Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $25,000
Awards Available: 1
The "Be Bold" Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile. It takes less than 2 minutes to apply. To us, boldest does not mean "best", or "most accomplished". Being bold means being:
A) Earnest
B) Determined
C) Moving
The scholarship will be awarded to the student whose profile is most bold, according to these characteristics. Furthermore, the scholarship will be unique in that it will favor students who apply earlier-who are bold and seize the day without procrastinating. Access the online scholarship application
here.
Deadline: December 1, 2024
Dell Scholars Program
Scholarship Value: $20,000
Awards Available: 300
SCHOLARSHIP CRITERIA
- Participate in a program-approved college readiness program in grades 11 and 12.
- Be on track to graduate from an accredited high school in the current academic year
- Demonstrate a need for financial assistance
- Be eligible to receive a Federal Pell Grant in the first year of college
- Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited higher education institution in the pursuit of a bachelor's degree in the fall directly following high school graduation
- Earn a minimum of a 2.4 GPA
Access the online scholarship application
here.
Deadline: December 1, 2024
Overachievers Student GrantScholarship Value: $15,000
Awards Available: 1
Pilot Pen will award the $15,000 G2 Overachievers Student Grant to an outstanding overachieving student (age 13-19) who goes above and beyond to improve the lives of others. Nominated students must be on the honor roll at their schools. To learn more about how the nomination process works, or to nominate a deserving student, click
here.
Deadline: December 30, 2024
Winter Wonderland Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $2,000
Awards Available: 1
To be eligible for the Scholarship you:
A) Must be 13 years of age or older and a legal resident of the 50 U.S. or D.C.
B) Must be currently attending high school, college, vocational, or any other accredited post-secondary institution. To enter, all you need to do is: 1) Fill out the registration form on
this page; 2) Answer the question, "Which do you enjoy more: holiday movies or holiday music?" and 3) Finish registration—that’s it!
You may access the online entry form
here.
Deadline: December 31, 2024
Path to Pro Scholarship Program
Scholarship Value: $2,500
Awards Available: 125
The Home Depot Foundation works to improve the homes and lives of U.S. veterans, train skilled tradespeople to fill the labor gap and support communities impacted by natural disasters. The Foundation has pledged to invest $50 million in training the next generation of skilled tradespeople and bridging the opportunity gap through its Path to Pro program. To be eligible for this scholarship, an applicant must:
- Be a high school senior, high school graduate or have a GED equivalent.
- Plan to enroll, or be enrolled, in an approved trade-related program at an accredited two-year school (technical/vocational school or college) in the United States.
- Not be an employee or dependent of an employee of the The Home Depot. Employees of The Home Depot and their dependents are eligible to apply for a scholarship from The Homer Fund.
- Focused on Carpentry, Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, or Construction Management
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: December 31, 2024
Arthur M. & Berdena King Eagle Scout Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $10,000
Awards Available: 15
To be eligible for this scholarship a student must:
A) Be a high school senior who plans on attending a college or university in the fall of 2025.
B) Be an Eagle Scout who is registered in an active unit and has not reached his nineteenth birthday.
The scholarship application may be found
here.
Deadline: December 31, 2024
The
Law Offices of of Scott Glovsky will award a
$1,000 scholarship to the winner of the
Power of Resilience Scholarship contest. Applicants should be in either high school or college (undergraduate or graduate program) and must show good academic standing and have a GPA of at least 3.0. To enter, students must write and submit an original essay discussing a personal crisis and what lessons they learned from that experience both in their own personal life and in the larger community. The essay should discuss how resilience can be used to recover from a destructive situation. You can learn more or enter
here.
Deadline: December 31, 2024
Niche $50,000 No-Essay Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $50,000
Awards Available: 1
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
A) Be a senior in high school.
B) Be planning to attend a college or university in 2025.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: December 31, 2024
Dolly Parton Songwriters AwardScholarship Value: $20,000
Awards Available: 2
The
Dolly Parton Songwriters Award is an annual, nationwide competition open to aspiring songwriters age 17-24. The awards can be used as a career grant for study, instrument purchase, recording costs, or other professional expenses and are not restricted to tuition. The program offers $20,000 for up to two of the best original song entries in any of the following genres: Americana, blues, bluegrass, contemporary Christian, country, folk, or roots. Both solo and co-written songs may be submitted for consideration. To learn more or enter, click
here.
Entry Deadline: January 15, 2025
Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship Program
Scholarship Value: $2,500 - $20,000
Awards Available: 500
Scholarships at APIA Scholars are open to AANHPI undergraduate students attending U.S.-accredited colleges or universities. Scholarship amounts range from $2,500 one-year awards to $20,000 multi-year awards. To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must: 1) be able to describe their ethnicity, heritage, or ancestry in relation to the countries, territories, or lands in Asia or the Pacific Islands; 2) Be a citizen, national, or legal permanent resident of the United States; and 3) be enrolling or continuing as a degree-seeking undergraduate student in a U.S.-accredited college or university in fall 2025. Students pursuing an associate's or bachelor’s degree are eligible to apply. Full-time and part-time degree-seeking students are eligible, as well as students who plan to enroll in online courses at accredited institutions. To learn more or enter, click
here.
Deadline: January 15, 2025
Washington Crossing Foundation ScholarshipScholarship Value: $5,000
Awards Available: 31
This scholarship competition is open to all high school senior who are U.S. citizens and are planning careers of service to the United States in local, state, or federal government.
Each interested student is invited to write a one-page essay stating why he or she plans a career in government service including any inspiration to be derived from the leadership of George Washington in his famous crossing of the Delaware. This essay must be accompanied by a recommendation from the high school principal or guidance counselor evaluating the student’s achievements, along with transcripts, national testing scores, and other supporting information of the applicant’s choice as described in the Official Rules. To learn more or enter, click here.
Deadline: January 15, 2025
7TH ANNUAL LANDS’ END SCHOOL STARBOARD SCHOLARSHIPApply now for the
2024-2025 Lands' End scholarship program! Since 2019, Lands' End has awarded 24 scholarships–a total of $240,000–to students who have shown exceptional leadership skills.
Up to five $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to eligible Preferred School students in grades 8-12. Applications will be accepted September 13, 2024 through January 17, 2025 or until 1,000 applications have been received. Click
here to learn more or apply.
Deadline: January 17, 2025
Profile in Courage Essay Contest
Scholarship Value: $10,000
Awards Available: 17
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
A) Be a United States high school student in grades nine through twelve.
B) Be attending a public, private, parochial or home school and be under the age of twenty.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: January 17, 2025
Applications are now being accepted for the TribLIVE scholarship program!
The
Jim Borden Memorial Scholarship is open to students currently attending or planning to attend a four-year college or university with a major in Journalism, English Writing or Communication with financial assistance of
up to $7500 per year for up to four years.
The
Scholarship for Diversity in Media will award a high school senior who is
culturally, ethnically or racially diverse and planning to attend a four-year college or university with a major in Journalism, Communication, or English Writing with financial assistance of up to $7500 per year for up to four years.
The
Business, Marketing and Technology Scholarship is open to students currently attending or planning to attend a four-year college or university with a major in Business, Marketing, Computer Science, or Information Technology with financial assistance of up to $7500 per year for up to four years.
All 3 scholarships also include a guaranteed yearly internship with Trib Total Media for up to 4 years and, upon graduation, an offer for full-time employment!
Deadline: January 17, 2025
2025 Student Keystone Media Awards Contest
The
Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association (PNA) Foundation is now accepting entries in the
2025 Student Keystone Media Awards Contest! This contest provides an arena for outstanding students from college news organizations to be honored for their journalism excellence. The contest rules and categories are now available on the
PNA website.
- Sweepstakes Awards - Sweepstakes Awards will go to the colleges and high school winning the highest total points in each division. Points are tallied: 10 points for each first place winner, 5 points for each second place winner and 2 points for each honorable mention. Specialty categories are awarded 10 points each.
- Don’t forget to enter the High School Diversity Champion Award, for a chance at a cash award! See complete details on the Specialty Category page.
Judges’ tip for creating winning entries: It is extremely important to follow AP Style as well as adhere to facts and correct details in your stories/entries. The
AP Stylebook is available online and in print. Be sure your articles include facts and no misinformation.
Entry Deadline: January 20, 2025
Breanna Coleman Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $5,000
Awards Available: 1
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
A) Be a high school senior who will be pursuing a four-year degree in nursing.
B) Be involved in volunteer work or other extracurricular activities outside of school.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: January 25, 2025
Broad Horizons Scholarship for High School Juniors
Scholarship Value: $1,000
Awards Available: 1
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
A) Be a high school junior on track to graduate in 2026.
B) Plan to enroll at an accredited college or university in the fall of 2026.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: January 31, 2025
ExploraVision National Science Competition
Scholarship Value: $10,000
Awards Available: 40
To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must be a U.S. citizen enrolled full-time in a public, private or home school and be no older than 21 years of age.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: January 31, 2025
Elks National Foundation Legacy AwardsScholarship Value: $4,000
Awards Available: 300
For the 2025 contest, any child or grandchild (or step-child, step-grandchild, or legal ward) of a living Elk who joined the Order on or before April 1, 2022, or a charter member of a Lodge that was instituted on or after April 1, 2022, is eligible to apply. The Elk must also be a paid-up member through March 31, 2025. Great-grandchildren are not eligible. The applicant must be a high school senior. To learn more or apply, click
here.
Deadline: February 3, 2025
Academy of Model Aeronautics Scholarships
Scholarship Value: $500 - $8,000
Awards Available: 6
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
1) Be a graduating high school senior who can get a reference from a school official.
2) Have an interest in model aeronautics.
3) Have been an AMA member for 36 continuous months prior to the February 3rd application deadline.
4) Indicate an anticipated major or trade, as well as the colleges, universities, and or trade schools to which the applicant has applied.
5) Agree to submit a W-9 form if awarded an AMA scholarship or award.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: February 3, 2025
Cappella, the
University of Mary Chapel Choir, is part of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry. This choral ensemble has a particular ministry and mission, providing music for campus liturgies on Wednesday
mornings, Sunday evenings, and other special University events. Singers and organists can audition to receive generous scholarships to come sing sacred music with Cappella. Here are some important facts about Capella:
-
- For serious and accomplished musicians who have a particular devotion to sacred music
- Membership is by audition (deadline in February)
- The ensemble is comprised of 28 singers.
- Looking to recruit 8-10 singers this year…particularly looking for strong, solo quality voices
- Membership includes touring opportunities (domestic and international tours)…we just toured Spain and France in 2023.
- Seeking and auditioning student organists as well as singers
The
University of Mary has a full Music Department with various opportunities for student musicians in band, jazz band, concert choir, vocal jazz, steel drum, percussion, pep band, string ensemble, and various other wind ensembles. Visit
www.umary.edu/music for more details on the Music Department and the scholarships that students can audition for at the University of Mary. Click
here to learn more about
Capella, or to register your interest and schedule an audition. The deadline is approaching for next year’s scholarships!
Deadline: February 14, 2025
Robert Mack ScholarshipsScholarship Value: $2,000
Awards Available: 3
Eligible applicants for this scholarship include any person pursuing undergraduate, graduate or vocational courses of study in the field of healthcare engineering. Fields of study may include (but not limited to) Mechanical, Electrical, or Structural Engineering, Plant Operations, Facility Management, Project Management, Architecture, HVAC, and Biomedical Engineering. Choice of school including vocational school, community college, state university or university is at the student’s option. To learn more or apply, click
here.
Deadline: February 15, 2025
The
Cardinal Newman Society is pleased to announce its ninth annual
Newman Guide College Scholarship Contest. Open this year to Catholics who are high school juniors and seniors, the winner will be awarded $5,000 toward the cost of attending a Newman Guide Recommended college in the fall of 2025 or 2026. There is no essay requirement this year, but applicants must submit a short statement explaining his or her interest in a faithful Catholic education and formation at a Newman Guide Recommended college. Additionally, there is the opportunity for the winner of the Contest to be awarded
$20,000 over the course of four years. Several of the Newman Guide colleges have agreed to supplement the Newman Society’s scholarship with additional $5,000 grants over three additional years. Learn which Newman Guide colleges have opted to supplement the Newman Society scholarship
here. To enter the
Newman Guide College Scholarship Contest, click
here.
Entry Deadline: February 18, 2025
Children of Warriors National Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $5,000
Awards Available: 15
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
A) Be a daughter, son, grandson, granddaughter, great-granddaughter, or great-grandson of a veteran who served in the Armed Forces.
B) Excel in academics at school and participate in volunteer activities outside of school.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: March 1, 2025
Science Without Borders Art ContestScholarship Value: $200 - $500
Awards Available: 3
The Science Without Borders® Challenge is an international contest that engages students and teachers in ocean conservation through art. The Challenge is open to primary and secondary school students 11-19 years old, with scholarships of up to $500 awarded to the winning entries. The theme for the 2025 Science without Borders® Challenge is “Marine Keystone Species.” Keystone species play a crucial role in keeping ocean ecosystems healthy and balanced. To apply for this year’s contest, students should submit artwork featuring a keystone species that lives in the ocean, highlighting this creature’s vital role in its marine ecosystem. To learn more or enter, click
here.
Deadline: March 3, 2025
The
Avon Club Scholarship is a
$3,000 scholarship awarded annually to a
female senior student residing within the Avonworth School District. Senior students residing Avonworth High School as well as private and home school students are eligible, but the students home address must be located within the Avonworth School District footprint. To learn more or apply, click
here.
Deadline: March 5, 2025
Franklin Park Borough Community Scholarship ProgramEach year Franklin Park Borough awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are borough residents. Typically, ten $1,500 scholarships are awarded. However, the number of scholarships varies based on the amount of funds raised. Up to two (2)
Melvin D. Lubert scholarships are awarded to students pursuing post-secondary education at a trade/technical school. This scholarship is named after a borough employee who passed away unexpectedly while on duty at the Public Works Department. Up to
two scholarships may be awarded to qualified Junior Firefighters. The remaining scholarships are awarded based on community service, academic and other criteria. The
Franklin Park Community Scholarship Application and the
Franklin Park Community Scholarship Melvin D. Lubert Scholarship for Technical Schools Application are available for download
here. Contact Donna Platt at 412-364-4115, Ext. 302 or by email at
[email protected] with any issues.
Deadline: March 14, 2025
Shell Oil Company Technical Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $2,500
Awards Available: 20
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
A) Be a graduating high school senior with an interest in the energy industry and demonstrated aptitude in mathematics and science.
B) Plan to enroll full-time in one of the following majors: geology; geophysics; physics; or chemical, civil, electrical, geological, geophysical, mechanical or petroleum engineering.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: March 15, 2025
Foundation for Women in Accounting Scholarships
Scholarship Value: $10,000
Awards Available: 8
To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:
A) Be age 23 years or younger and have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
B) Be a child, adopted child or stepchild of an active duty, retired or veteran member of the United States Air Force, Air National Guard, or Air Force Reserve Command.
Access the online application
here.
Deadline: March 31, 2025
Students Thriving with Epilepsy or Seizure Disorder Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $1,000 - $1,500
Awards Available: 7 ($1,000) 3 ($1,500)
To be eligible for the Epilepsy Association of Western and Central PA Scholarship, a student must: have a diagnosis of epilepsy/seizure disorder, provide proof of acceptance to a post-secondary academic or vocational program, be a high school senior, attend school full-time, and be a legal resident of western/central Pennsylvania.
Access the scholarship application
here.
Deadline: April 7, 2025
10 Words or Less Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $1,000
Awards Available: 2
Scholarship Eligibility:
A) Anyone who is between the ages of 14-25 who will be attending school in the Fall of 2025.
B) This scholarship is provided by StudentScholarships.org.
In order to apply for our scholarship follow these instructions:
In 10 words or less, tell us why you deserve the $1,000 scholarship.
2. Before or After writing your Answer you will also need to "Like" our Facebook page. Note we will only read the answers provided from people that have "Liked" our page.
Deadline: April 15, 2025
The Medical Staffs of
Heritage Valley Beaver and Heritage Valley Sewickley hospitals are pleased to announce that applications for the
Health Care Scholarships are now being accepted. The application process is open to high school seniors in the Heritage Valley Beaver and Heritage Valley Sewickley service areas who are pursuing a health care career. Scholarships will be awarded to outstanding students who have financial need and who will hopefully serve in our community upon completion of their training and education. To be considered, please complete and submit the
online application and required attachments no later than May 31, 2025. Scholarship will be awarded by June 30, 2025.
Deadline: May 31, 2025
College Mix Christian College ScholarshipScholarship Value: $3,500
Awards Available: 1
To be eligible for this scholarship a student must be a current high school student (Class of 2025, 2026, or 2027) interested in attending a Christian university or college. Access the online application
here.
Deadline: May 31, 2025
Abbott & Fenner Business Consultants are committed to helping those who have the desire and ambition to succeed. The $1,000 A&F Scholarships are available to all high school juniors and seniors as well as all students currently registered in any accredited post secondary institution.
To apply for this scholarship you will need to write an essay of 500 - 1,000 words on the following topic: Describe your educational career and life goals. Explain your plan for achieving these goals. Include your degree/major, why you selected it, and how this degree/major will help you achieve your goals.
Submissions must be sent by email to:
[email protected] Applicants should include their full name and mailing address with their submissions as well as the school they are currently attending. The winner(s) will receive their award within 2 weeks of the application deadline.
Please note: Do not submit essays that have been generated by AI. They are easy to spot and will be deleted automatically. Please take the time to write your own essay.
BigSun Scholarship
Scholarship Value: $500
Awards Available: 1
To be eligible for the BigSun Scholarship a student must be a high school senior (or a current student at a post-secondary educational institution) who is participating in any type of sport. To enter, students must submit a short essay (500 - 1,000 words) answering the following questions:
How did your participation in sports during your high school years influence you? Has your participation influenced your career goals? Essays must be emailed to
[email protected]. When emailing your essay, be sure to include your name and the name of the school that you are attending. AI-generated essays will not be accepted. Click
here to learn more.
Deadline: June 19, 2025
On October 28, 2008, a fabulous and extra-ordinary young man,
Kyle B. Wilson, suddenly passed away at the tender age of seventeen. Kyle was “One of a Kind” who would light up a room with his smile. His LOVE for life inspired whoever he touched and best of all he was LOVED by ALL. In honor of Kyle’s memory his family has established the
Kyle B. Wilson Scholarship Fund. The fund was created to keep Kyle’s legacy alive while assisting students and their families who find themselves in extraordinary financial circumstances. The scholarship’s funds are intended to help students and their families pay for the many expenses related to quality education. To learn more or apply for the
Kyle B. Wilson Scholarship, click
here.
Deadline: July 1, 2025
AES Engineering is pleased to be able to continue offering scholarships to motivated students to help in the furthering of their education. Their belief is that achieving a high grade point average should not be the only criteria for determining who deserves to be helped. For that reason they are offering a
$500 scholarship that will be awarded on the basis of character, as determined by an evaluation of the essays that are submitted. Scholarships are intended for future leaders across a wide spectrum of fields of study. This award is available to high school seniors and all students attending a post secondary educational facility. You are not required to be taking Engineering courses to be eligible. In order to apply, seniors must submit an essay of between 500 and 1000 words in answer to the following question:
When you look back on your life in 30 years, what would it take for you to consider your life successful? What relationships or accomplishments will be important on this journey? AI generated applications will not be accepted. Original essays must be emailed to
[email protected] There is no application packet for this award. Please do not include your resume at this time, but do be sure to include your full name as well as the name of the school you are attending this year and your plans for next year.
Deadline: October 8, 2025
EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
Event Technology Training for High School Students at Tech25
Did you know that there is a place in Pittsburgh where you can receive very affordable (low or even no-cost) training in event production? Event production skills are valuable to any student interested in broadcasting, theater production (including high school theater), audio engineering, lighting design, DJ-ing, or digital content creation.
Until recently--outside of 4-year degree programs at CMU and Point Park--Pittsburgh lacked a facility that could train new technicians in the Event Technology industry at a vocational level.
Tech25 is a non-profit organization looking to change this by making Event Technology education and training more accessible. Whether you are already involved in theater, home recording, live sound, video, or are just getting started, Tech25 is ready for you.
This spring Tech25 is offering the following beginner-level courses, which are open to high school students and adults. No previous experience is required.
Audio Basics (Mon. & Wed. 6:00 - 8:00 PM; Starts Feb. 4 - New sessions begin every month!)
Lighting Basics (Tues. & Thurs. 6:00 - 8:00 PM; Starts Feb. 10 - New sessions begin every month!)
For students 18+ who have completed the Audio Basics course, a Live Sound Training course is available.
Applications are now being accepted for the
spring 2025 program. This program is for those who are interested in working professionally in the live sound industry as a front of house engineer, monitor engineer, stagehand, and more. You will learn how to set up sound systems and stages, use mixing consoles to mix and route audio signals, work with professional musicians, artists, and production crews, and dive deeper into the world of live sound engineering. Learn from pro audio engineer Carolyn Slothour and gain real work experience to get your foot in the door. The course includes 20 hours of total instruction.
You can learn more about
Tech25 here.
Ace Wire Spring & Form Company, Inc. in McKees Rocks, PA has been an industry leader in the manufacturing of custom precision compression, extension, torsion, magazine springs and custom wire forms since 1939. They employ the finest team of design engineers, experienced managers, and skilled craftsmen. No 4-year degree is required. Employment benefits include: 401K plans, competitive salaries, job training, health care, vacation time, and family-friendly policies.
Ace has created a YouTube video to inform students about the benefits of a career in the manufacturing industry. You can view the video here. The company currently has openings for the following positions: CNC Machine Operator, Shipper, Sales Engineer, General Laborer, Clerical. Anyone interested in applying should email a letter of interest and a resume to John Higgins at
[email protected], or call 412-458-4830. Please reference the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email.
Aroma Stone Hearth Pizza in Clinton, PA has immediate openings for pizza makers, deli artists, front desk hosts for phone calls/register, and delivery drivers. These positions pay between $9.00 and $14.00 per hour.
Multiple delivery driver positions are available. All deliveries are within a 5-mile radius of the shop. Shift scheduling for all positions is extremely flexible! For more information or to apply, please go to
https://aroma.pizza/.
The new Chick-fil-A location in Moon Township will open soon and is in need of part-time workers! To apply, go to www.Hiremecfa.com or scan the QR code on the flyer attached below.
Choolaah Indian BBQ is a growing fast-casual restaurant located in The Pointe at North Fayette shopping area, not far from OLSH. They have immediate part-time openings for students. Here are the details:
At Choolah, we have great school-work-life balance, where we close at 8:00 p.m. and staff are out by 9:00 p.m., so no late nights! We also offer competitive pay and healthy choices on our menu!
PERKS:
*Flexible schedules, no late nights (open 11a.m. - 8 p.m.; out by 9:00 p.m.)
*Starting pay: $12-$13/hr + tips ($2-$3 avg); Total compensation: $14-$15/hr
*Growth opportunities
*Paid time off
*Free meals on shift
*Fundraising event opportunities
*A great friendly work environment/community
FIVE BELOW in Settlers Ridge (Robinson Township) is hiring part-time, seasonal employees for the 2024 holiday season. The hours for these positions will be restricted to evenings and weekends, and the schedule will be flexible to accommodate students' extracurricular activities. The pay is $11 per hour, plus a 20% store discount. Candidates must be at least 16 years of age and have a valid work permit from their home school district. Click
here to apply. For more information, stop in or call the store at 412-787-3987 and ask for Colleen Quigley or Nick Behun.
Juliano’s Restaurant & Catering (Robinson Township) is hiring part-time workers!. Juliano’s promises a friendly, flexible work environment which adheres to the same ethical standards and philosophies we teach at OLSH! Does your current employer promise to help you develope attitudes which will benefit your future career goals and plans? Juliano's does! Hourly rates for employees range from $14-$17 per hour, depending on experience. Click
here to apply, or stop by in person for a paper application. Questions? Call owner Nick Scalise at 412-787-2959. Please see that attached flyer for details.
Lane Steel Hiring High School/College StudentsLane Steel Co., Inc. is hiring summer help for our Steel Service Center in McKees Rocks. This is an ideal opportunity for high school or college students! We are hiring on both shifts, Monday through Friday, Full-Time or Part-Time: First Shift - 6:00AM - 2:30PM Second Shift - 2:30PM - 11PM Pay Rate: $15.00 per hour Contact: Human Resources
[email protected]; phone: 412-777-1700; fax 412-777-1713 Applications can be found on our website
www.lanesteel.com under the Employment tab. We are looking for summer students to help with our warehouse operations. Responsibilities may include training in packaging, helping to prepare orders, general cleanup, and working in our woodshop and lumber yard. You will need to have your own steel toe boots; we will provide all other PPE.
Mission BBQ in Robinson Township is hiring hourly team members for the following positions: Cashier, Cook, Expo, Host, Assistant Kitchen Manager, and Hourly Manager. Benefits include a flexible schedule, no late nights, holidays off, and free shift meals and dining discounts. See the flyer below for more details, or click
here to apply.
The Mooncrest After School Program in Coraopolis (a ministry of the Felician Sisters) has an immediate part-time job opening for a Program Aide. The Program Aide will be responsible for supervising children grades K through 6 in the After School Program, on field trips and/or in the summer camp program. Duties will include helping with homework during the school year; leading summer activities; providing age-appropriate activities; maintaining a safe, clean site; modeling appropriate behavior; and reporting behavioral and academic concerns to the supervisor. The regular hours for this position are 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Monday-Friday throughout the school year, with occasional extended hours for field trips, and summer camp hours if applicable. Candidates for this position must be at least 18 years of age; be reliable and report for work as scheduled; and care about, love and respect children. PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse and FBI clearances required. Please see the job description posted below for more details.
The
Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) has approved the creation of the
PIAA Junior Officials Program. This program will allow 16 and 17 year old students to officiate 7th through 9th grade (junior high and middle school) contests as long as they have met all the requirements of a registered PIAA official. Those requirements can be found on the PIAA website here:
Become a PIAA Official PIAA will be waiving the registration fees for any student belonging to this program. Students who are interested should fill out the application form found
here and email it to Kim Hill at
[email protected]. Junior officials will be provided a mentor by the chapter they join and will also be provided training by that same chapter.
The
Sewickley YMCA is looking for students (age 16 and up) to hire as part-time lifeguards. Hours for these positions will be limited to evenings and weekends. The YMCA will provide lifeguard training, and the job comes with a free Y membership! To learn more or apply, click
here.
Zippia.com has a free online search tool for high school students looking for part-time jobs. Go to
https://www.zippia.com/job-search/high-school-jobs/ to see what positions are available in your area.
SERVICE HOUR OPPORTUNITIES
The
Society of St. Vincent de Paul is in need of student volunteers to help load winter coats and clothing for the needy onto a truck for transport to West Virginia. Students interested in volunteering should meet at
Holy Trinity Church in Robinson Township at
5:30 PM on Friday, November 8th. Society of St. Vincent de Paul members will gladly sign your service hours forms! If you have any questions, please contact
Richard Musser of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul via email to
[email protected] or via text/phone to 412-877-9451.
Students 18 years of age or older are invited to participate in the volunteer program at
Allegheny General Hospital. AGH offers a flexible volunteer program designed to accommodate the schedules and abilities of people from all backgrounds. As an academic medical center, AGH trains tomorrow's healthcare practitioners using the most innovative and cutting-edge technology. Volunteering at AGH is a great opportunity to become part of this high-energy, multidisciplinary organization. Volunteer opportunities at AGH include: Clerical/Computer; Cup of Comfort Cart; Emergency Department; Eucharistic Minister; Greeter/Guide; Music for the Soul; Nursing Units; Patient Care Cart; Patient Escort; Patient Mail Delivery; Patient Representative; Pet Therapy; and Trauma Wating Room. Complimentary parking and lunch are provided for volunteers! Volunteer positions are also available at other Allegheny Health Network facilities, including Allegheny Valley Hospital Cancer Institute; Canonsburg Hospital; Forbes Hospital; Jefferson Hospital; St. Vincent's Hospital; West Penn Hospital; and Westfield Memorial Hospital. To learn more or to apply online, visit
www.ahn.org/volunteer-application or call 412-359-3067.
The Beaver County Humane Society Thrift Shop is in desperate need of volunteers. The shop is located at 1900 7th Avenue in Beaver Falls, PA. Contact Caitlin Smith, Volunteer Coordinator at 724-775-5801, ext. 101.