Opportunities guide and workbook

This free college-planning publication provides students and families with important information and tools to guide their pursuit of postsecondary education. Opportunities guides are available in English and Spanish. The state-specific booklets are the same as the national booklets with the addition of state-specific information on colleges, financial aid and resources.

Full PDFs of each Opportunities guide (along with individual worksheets and checklists) can be downloaded below.

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Career and technical education (CTE) involves educational programs that provide students with the technical and professional skills to succeed in the workplace and throughout their career. CTE programs are designed to meet the needs of employers while providing pathways to lifelong learning and family-sustaining careers, often taught through hands-on learning and on-the-job experience. Use this supplement to determine if CTE is right for you.

Career and Technical Education Supplement
English | Spanish

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Finding the right college that supports your career goals and personal interests is an important part of long-term success. Use this worksheet to help you determine the best academic and co-curricular fit in an institution.

English | Spanish

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Every college has a different application process. Read the application carefully and use this worksheet to organize information for the colleges you are considering. Make a copy of this worksheet for each college and keep with your application materials.

English | Spanish

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Creating an FSA ID is the first step to completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FSA ID username and password are used to electronically sign the FAFSA and other important financial aid paperwork. It also grants you access to your online Federal Student Aid (FSA) account. Use this worksheet to help you create an FSA ID.

English | Spanish

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Scholarships are one way to pay for college and students need to start the scholarship application process early and apply for as many scholarships as possible. The scholarship application process requires time, effort, and most students liken it to a part-time job. Use this resource guide to gather information necessary to complete the scholarship application process.

English | Spanish

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When your financial aid award letters arrive, you'll need to carefully consider your options and select the types of aid and school that are the best fit for you. This worksheet will help you choose the right school, guide you through the final steps in receiving your financial aid, and help you financially prepare yourself for college.

English | Spanish

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As you plan and prepare for college, these checklists will help keep you on track throughout the process. The checklists highlight important aspects to focus on during each season of the year, including tips for both money and time management, and college and career planning.

Freshman year
English | Spanish

Sophomore year
English | Spanish

Junior year
English | Spanish

Senior year
English | Spanish

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Virginia’s higher education options are as diverse as its landscape. Students can earn a certificate or associate degree through one of the state’s two-year institutions or regional education centers, which can lead to a bachelor’s degree at one of the many Virginia four-year public or private institutions. The Commonwealth’s schools offer career pathways, highly ranked undergraduate programs, competitive tuition and financial aid programs. The campuses are beautiful, and range from metropolitan-based settings to classic college environments nestled in the mountains or along the shoreline and everywhere in between. Use this map to help explore the many available higher education options in Virginia.

8.5"x11" poster (English) | 2'x3' poster (English)

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