Navigating the world of scholarships can be overwhelming, but the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program is here to make the process simpler for many families. If you’re looking for financial assistance to help your child attend a nonpublic school, here’s a comprehensive guide to the BOOST Scholarship Program.
What is the BOOST Scholarship Program?
The BOOST Scholarship Program is designed to provide financial support to students who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals (FARMs) and wish to attend a participating nonpublic school. This initiative aims to broaden educational opportunities by offering scholarships to help cover tuition costs for eligible families.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for a BOOST Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:
FARMs Eligibility: The student must qualify for the free or reduced-price school meals program.
Enrollment: The student should be enrolled or accepted at a participating nonpublic school for the 2024-2025 school year.
Grade Level: Scholarships are available for students entering kindergarten through 12th grade. Pre-K students are not eligible for this scholarship.
Priority is given to students who received a BOOST award in the previous year, as well as their siblings.
How to Determine FARMs Eligibility
Parents will need to upload their 2023 Federal 1040 tax returns as part of the application process. This information helps verify annual income and household size, ensuring that the applicant meets the FARM’s criteria. For the most current income cut-offs, refer to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s guidelines for the 2024-2025 school year.
Where Can the Boost Scholarship Be Used?
The BOOST Scholarship can only be used at nonpublic schools that participate in the program. A list of participating schools is available on the BOOST Scholarship Program’s website. This ensures that the funds are used at institutions committed to the program’s goals.
How Much is the BOOST Scholarship Worth?
The amount of the BOOST scholarship varies based on several factors, including household income, the student’s academic level, and any financial assistance the school may provide. The BOOST Advisory Board will determine the award amounts in Summer 2024.
How is the Scholarship Awarded?
Scholarship funds are sent directly to the school. Parents must sign the back of the check at the school. If the scholarship amount exceeds the tuition owed, the award will be adjusted to match the tuition cost. For instance, if the school’s annual tuition is $10,000 and the BOOST scholarship is $7,750, the award will be reduced to cover only the $6,000 balance after accounting for any school discounts.
Applying for the BOOST Scholarship
To apply for the BOOST Scholarship for the 2024-2025 school year, parents must complete the online application. It’s important to ensure that all required information is accurately provided to maximize the chances of receiving a scholarship award.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child qualifies for FARMs?
Eligibility for FARMs is determined based on annual income and household size. As part of the BOOST Scholarship application, parents will need to upload their 2023 Federal 1040 tax returns to verify income. The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides the income cut-offs for the 2024-2025 school year.
Can the BOOST Scholarship be used at any nonpublic school?
No, the BOOST Scholarship can only be used at nonpublic schools that participate in the program. A list of participating schools is available on the BOOST Scholarship Program website.
How is the scholarship award distributed?
The BOOST scholarship funds are sent directly to the school. Parents must sign the back of the check at the school. If the scholarship exceeds the tuition owed, the award will be adjusted accordingly. For example, if the school’s tuition is $10,000 and the BOOST award is $7,750, the scholarship will be reduced to cover only the tuition balance after any school discounts.
How do I apply for the BOOST Scholarship?
Parents must complete the online BOOST Scholarship application for their children. Ensure that all required information is accurately provided to be considered for an award.
Conclusion
The BOOST Scholarship Program offers a fantastic opportunity for families seeking financial aid to support their child’s education at a nonpublic school. By understanding the eligibility requirements and application process, you can take advantage of this program to provide your child with a valuable educational experience. Make sure to review the participating schools, gather the necessary documents, and complete the application before the deadline. With the right preparation, the BOOST Scholarship could be a crucial step in securing a bright future for your child. If you have any questions, resources are available to assist you every step of the way.