Exhibits
Q: What kinds of exhibits should I include with my application?
A: Exhibits should emphasize your achievements in scholarship, leadership, athletics, dramatics, community service, etc. Examples of exhibits include, but are not limited to:

• Newspaper Articles
• Certificates of Achievement
• Copies of Awards

Q: Do I have to include 10 pages of exhibits?
A: No, you may include up to 10 double sided pages of exhibits, but exhibits are not mandatory. The judges look for quality over quantity.

Q: Can I include non-paper exhibits, such as CDs or DVDs of my work?
A: No, do not send CDs, DVDs, or any other similar items. Judges will not look at or listen to any supplemental materials of this nature in reviewing your application, and these items will not be returned to you.

Lodge
Q: I don’t know where to drop my application off. How do I find a Lodge?
A: MVS applications must be dropped off at the Elks Lodge closest to where a student lives. To find the Lodge near you, visit www.elks.org/lodges . Enter your zip code and click on the Lodge name to obtain contact information. Immediately contact the Lodge to inquire about the best times to drop off the application on or before the November 2, 2009, deadline.

Q: I’ve left several messages at my Lodge, but haven’t heard back from anyone, what do I do?
A: First verify that you have the correct Lodge information, including the emergency number. If you are having difficulties, try the state scholarship chair. For a list of chairmen, go to www.elks.org/enf/scholars/statechairmen.cfm .

Q: Can I mail my application to the Lodge nearest my permanent residence, or do I need to drop it off in person?
A: You can mail your application to the Lodge closest to your permanent (not school) residence. If you choose to do this, make sure you send it in enough time to arrive on or before November 2, 2009. You will not receive confirmation of application receipt from the Lodge, so if you are concerned, send your application via certified mail. We encourage you to contact the Lodge, telling them you are mailing them an application, and again to make sure they have received it.

Q: How will I know if my application has advanced?
A: The Lodge will notify you of your application’s status via mail at every step of the competition. If you do not hear from the Lodge, contact the Lodge Scholarship Chairperson for information on your application.

Test Scores
Q: The college I plan to attend doesn’t require that I take the ACT or SAT. Are these scores needed for this application?
A: Yes, you need to have taken either the ACT or SAT by October 15, 2009, in order to qualify for the MVS Scholarship.

Financial
Q: I am a national finalist and I haven’t filed my taxes yet this year. Can I use estimates to complete my FAFSA, and receive my SAR by March 1, 2010?
A: Yes, if you have not filed their tax return, you can still submit a FAFSA to receive your Student Aid Report to mail to the ENF.

Please note: FAFSA will require you to provide correct income and tax data once it is filed.