<p>If a student takes a gap year, would there be scholarships they could apply for as an entering freshman, or would they be excluded since they are not a graduating senior? DD might be interested in a GAP year. However she would lose any FA granted for next year as DS is a senior ang will hopefully graduate next year. She might be able to earn some of the difference working. Any thoughts?</p>
<p>Check the colleges' web sites. From what I've seen, merit aid for college freshmen can go to any qualifying entering freshman. </p>
<p>Also Americorps volunteer programs provide students with a small stipend (about $200 a week) and after finishing the program, the volunteers get about $4,500 to help pay for college (or college loans). </p>
<p>If your D plans to go to a particular college that has already offerd her FA, they may be willing to hold her space and her aid -- if she promises to attend that college in 2007. I know someone who got that kind of deal with a very nice merit aid offer.</p>
<p>Many colleges will hold the scholarship award through the gap year, but eligibility for need-based aid will be reassessed.</p>
<p>Also, be sure to check on the other requirements the college might impose...for example, some will not let a student take any college-level courses during the gap.</p>
<p>I was thinking more about outside scholarships ?</p>