How to apply
Applying for support
There are two kinds of application. An initial application is your first request for support and asks for the fuller picture. After that, a shorter continuing application each semester keeps support going as you progress.
What you’ll need
- Your program details — school, program level, and the term you’re applying for.
- Your line of descent from Ann H. Orenski — the chain of ancestors connecting you to her (see Who is eligible for how to trace it).
- A short essay, written in the application — you’ll respond to a few questions about your program and goals (a brief progress update for a continuing application). The prompts are provided there, so there’s nothing to write in advance.
- A cost summary — how much your program will cost and how much you’d like to request from the Trust.
- Documents — a photo, your transcript, and your FAFSA, uploaded directly and securely.
- Confirmation of other aid — that you’ve applied for FAFSA and any other assistance you qualify for.
How the trust pays
The trust pays your education costs directly rather than reimbursing you. Where possible, you add the trust as a third-party payor with your school so tuition goes straight to them. For housing, the trust can act as a guarantor or co-signer with your rental provider.
Your application walks you through a simple summary of tuition and living costs, which you confirm before submitting. The trust never asks for your bank or card details.
A family tradition
The ornament tradition
Christmas holds a special significance for the Orenski family. Christmas has always been a time for the Orenski to get together over the years. In celebration of the family and its continuing stride to better themselves and support their families with each generation, the trustees would like to establish a tradition showing the connections between Orenski students past and present.
The trustees have always felt a special affection for Christmas and the winter holidays as a time to bring the family together. To that end, the trustees maintain a special Christmas tree with ornaments from each Orenski Family Education Trust student’s university. And we would like each future student to be part of that lovely tradition.