Student Frequently Asked Questions
I uploaded a document but it disappeared. What do I do?
Files can be rejected if they are not in the correct format or if they are too large. First, check to make sure that your files are in the correct format (.pdf, .tif, .png, .gif, .jpeg, .bmp and .xps). Then log back in to ISTS to try the upload again. If the file is too large, save into a .zip file first and then upload. If you do this and you are still experiencing issues, email ContactUs@applyists.com with the document attached.
I have not received my SAR report yet, how can I enter my financial aid information?
If you have not yet applied for your FAFSA and it is less than 5 days until the Sisters GRO scholarship application deadline, you will have to opt-out of scholarships that condsider financial need as you will not receive your EFC# in time. If you applied for your FAFSA more than 5 days from the Sisters GRO scholarship application deadline and you have not received your full SAR report yet, you should have at least received an email from FAFSA with your EFC#. We will accept a screen shot of this email as long as it includes BOTH your full name and the EFC# somewhere in the shot. You also need to make sure that the screen shot is in the correct file format for upload (.pdf, .tif, .png, .gif, .jpeg, .bmp and .xps).
How do I get an unofficial copy of my transcript?
You can request an electronic (.pdf) copy of your unofficial transcript from the SHS office. It may take a few days to process your request so be sure to plan accordingly.
What do I include in my art portfolio?
If you are submiting a portfolio for an art-based scholarship, you can take images or video of your work or attach digital copies to your application. Keep in mind that your files all need to be in the correct file format (.pdf, .tif, .png, .gif, .jpeg, .bmp and .xps). If the files are too large to upload, compress them into a .zip file prior to uploading.
I wrote an essay and it disappeared. Do I need to write it over again?
Unfortunately, the site can time out if you are idol on one page for too long. So, yes, you would need to rewrite the essay if it disappeared. We STRONGLY encourage that you complete your essays in a Word or Google doc first and then copy and paste them into your application in ISTS. This way, you will also have copies of your essays to use for other scholarships in the future if you choose.
It is past the scholarship deadline and my application is submitted but not complete. What do I do?
There are a couple of reasons why your application might not be complete.
How do I get rid of the blank spaces showing up on my activities form?
Unfortunately there is no way to remove the extra spaces at this time. Simply leave them blank. This will not impact your scholarship application or eligibility.
I do not have an activity to add in each of the required categories but the system won't let me submit without one. What do I do?
Simply enter N/A which stand for 'Not Applicable' in each of the required boxes where you do not have related information to add.
I submitted my application, is it complete?
You can check on the status of your application by logging back into the ISTS application website. https://aim.applyists.net/SistersGRO
What is ISTS?
ISTS stands for International Scholarship and Tuition Services. They are the organization that manages the database for the Sisters GRO scholarship application. The login site for ISTS is https://aim.applyists.net/SistersGRO.
When will I hear back about my application?
Scholarships will be awarded at the Senior Celebration event in May. Keep an eye out for an invitation for the event sent to your email in late-April or early-May.
How do I contact ISTS?
You can try the chat feature on the ISTS website as well as emailing ContactUS@applyists.com.