Welcome Parents

You and your student have narrowed down the colleges they would like to attend, visited campuses and are already very excited. You’ve dreamed about your child going to college and that dream is very close to coming true. Family and friends share your excitement and offer encouragement. You’re finalizing the details when suddenly your excitement comes to a grinding halt: Your student was too late in submitting their application to the university or college of their choice, is denied admission and now the cost of college stares you in the face. The questions loom: “How can I increase their chances of being admitted to the college of their choice.” Worse yet, how are you and your student going to pay for the cost of their education?

At COSTEP we know these scenarios can be real more times than not. But we also know the steps to help your student prepare for college and fund their education. Applying to schools means more than just filling out forms. You and your student need to understand each school’s requirements, gather information, meet deadlines, and pay any necessary fees for each submitted application. Obtaining a college education takes time and costs money; a lot of money. But the way we see it, funding your student’s education shouldn’t be such a burden.

COSTEP, established in 1972, is a Texas based non-profit organization guided by the belief that equal access to education is the key to economic progress for all, including your student. We’re here to get you on the right track with four steps it takes to prepare for a higher education: Preparing, Funding, Receiving and Paying Back. When performing these steps properly, you may be surprised at the amount of aid for which your child qualifies! At COSTEP it is our objective to see that your child’s dream of going to college becomes a reality.

Taking The Step

Here’s a preview of the process ahead. Begin by clicking on “Preparing,” or pick up where you left off by clicking one of the other steps in the process.

Preparing

Terms & Definitions - Understand the lingo.
College Prep Checklist - There’s a lot you can do before college.
Selecting A School - Plenty to choose from in Texas.

Funding

Eligibility for Financial Aid - Make sure you’re in.
Filing A FAFSA - Exciting, no. Worth it? Yes!
Grants & Scholarships - Free money. Seriously.

Receiving

Types of Loans - Which one is right for you?
Promissory Note - Sign on the dotted line.

Paying Back

Payment Terms & Discounts - Find the best way to pay when it’s due.
Deferment, Forbearance & Default - When you can’t pay.
Your Legal Rights - You have the right to read this page. Anything you read can and will be used…

COSTEP’s objective is to see that your student gets to college. If you have questions or need some help along the way, just call us at 1 (800) 949-6371. Tell us what step you’re on, and we’ll guide you for as long as you need.