Learn more about the Nathan and Sarah Klein Interest-Free Student Loan, Lloyd and Morissa Parkans Scholarship, Edith and Robert Zinn Scholarship and the Alexander Jewish Family Service Scholarship.
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Learn more about the Nathan and Sarah Klein Interest-Free Student Loan, Lloyd and Morissa Parkans Scholarship, Edith and Robert Zinn Scholarship and the Alexander Jewish Family Service Scholarship.
Who is eligible to apply? Local Jewish students with demonstrated financial need may apply for an interest-free student loan to assist with educational and living expenses in college, graduate school or trade school.
How do I apply only for the interest-free student loan? Complete and submit application by May 24, 2024; a $40 non-refundable application fee is required payable to Alexander Jewish Family Service. One co-signer is required; the co-signer can be a parent, relative, or friend. A required meeting will be scheduled in July with the applicant, both co-signers and our Senior Accounting Supervisor, Abbie Seher, to determine eligibility. If eligible, at that time the applicant and co-signers will sign a binding contract/note.
What is the loan amount for the interest-free student loans? Interest-free student loan amounts depend on the amount of funds available to distribute and the total number of eligible applicants. Historically, the average loan amount is $7,000.
What is the process if I am granted an interest-free student loan? A check will be issued by August 16, 2024. Repayment will begin September 2024 and should be repaid within 10 years (maximum) from its signing. While in school, minimum repayment is 3.50% of the face value of the loan per year. Repayments increase following graduation:
• Year 1 - Minimum of 10% of face value of loan per year
• Year 2 - Minimum of 15% of face value of loan per year
• Year 3 - Minimum of 20% of face value of loan per year
• Year 4 & thereafter - Minimum of 25% of face value of loan per year
There is a $40 administrative fee due January 1st each year the loan is in existence.
If I apply for the scholarship and do not receive it, can I still apply for a Alexander JFS interest-free student loan? Our loan and scholarship programs run simultaneously; therefore, if a scholarship is not awarded, it is not possible to apply for an interest-free student loan this year. However, an applicant can apply for an interest-free student loan through the Hebrew Free Loan Association.
Can I apply for more than one interest-free student loan? A second loan for the same student cannot be obtained while a loan pay-off is in progress.
What if my co-signer is someone other than my parent/guardian? Additional documentation such as tax returns, pay stubs, etc. will be required.
When can I expect to hear if I have been awarded an interest-free student loan? All recipients will be contacted by August 9, 2024.
Who is eligible to apply? Local Jewish students with demonstrated financial need may apply for a scholarship to assist with educational and living expenses for undergraduate studies.
Can the scholarship be used for study abroad programs that provide college credit? No, the scholarship funds are only for study within the U.S.
What is the scholarship amount? Scholarship amounts are $10,000 per scholarship.
Who should write my references, and what should be included? References should be from within the past year; preferred references are from a teacher, community leader or rabbi and address outstanding academic achievement, leadership, community involvement and admirable personal attributes. All references should be signed.
If I am awarded the scholarship, can I apply and receive it again? Yes
What should be included in my resume? Activities and awards related to academics, leadership, community service and employment.
Who selects the Scholarship recipients? A small committee of Alexander JFS board members and volunteers will select five scholarship recipients. They review each aspect of your application including financial need, extra-curricular activities/community service, references, GPA, highlights from your interview and read your essay.
When will selected recipients be announced? Scholarship recipients and all applicants will be notified by July 15, 2024; a check will be issued by August 16, 2024.
Can I submit a copy of my transcript?
No, all transcripts (high school and college) must be official and come directly from the registrar at your school or institution. Please request transcripts to be sent to Alexander JFS, c/o Adele Croft, 4131 S. Braeswood Blvd., Houston, TX 77025.
How should I calculate my budget?
Many colleges and universities provide a guide for a budget however amounts vary significantly for items such as housing – your budget should be as accurate as possible.
What additional documentation is needed if FASFA says Transferred from IRS?
If your FAFSA states on any line “Transferred from IRS," please provide your most current W-2 and the W-2 reported on the FAFSA.
If the CSS (College Scholarship Service) Profile is required by your school, do you need to provide it with your application?
Yes
Do I only list resources I plan to accept on my Budget Information?
No, please list ALL loans/scholarships/grants you have applied for – and specify for each one if it was accepted/denied or pending. Please be sure to provide documentation for each loan/scholarship/grant opportunity.
Can I apply for an interest-free loan and for the scholarship?
Yes, you may apply for an interest-free loan and the scholarship and potentially receive both.
When can I expect to hear if I have been awarded a loan or scholarship?
Applicants will be contacted by July 15, 2024.
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