Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF)

About: Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF):

r Underrepresented Groups: KOSAF’s programs specifically target students from low-income families, students with disabilities, and students from rural areas, ensuring equal access to education.

Diverse Financial Aid Programs: The foundation offers various types of financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships, ensuring that students can find an option that best suits their needs.

Eligibility Criteria of Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs

Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs Application Timeline

Application Process of Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs

1. Review Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for any KOSAF program, applicants should:

Check eligibility requirements: Ensure they meet the basic requirements, such as being enrolled in a South Korean university, academic performance, and financial need (if applicable).

For international students, ensure you have a valid student visa and confirm if your university is eligible for KOSAF’s support programs.

2. Prepare Necessary Documents

Depending on the program, applicants may need to submit a variety of documents. Common documents required include:

Proof of Enrollment: A certificate of enrollment from the applicant’s university or institution in South Korea.

Financial Documents: Evidence of financial need, such as income statements, tax returns, or family financial information.

Academic Records: Transcripts or academic performance reports from the current or previous semesters.

Identification Documents: Passport (for international students), national ID (for South Korean students), and other identification documents.

Recommendation Letters: Some programs may require letters of recommendation from professors or academic advisors.

Other Specific Documents: Depending on the program (e.g., merit-based scholarships or loans), additional documents may be required, such as language proficiency tests, research proposals, or specific forms provided by KOSAF.

3. Online Application

Visit KOSAF’s Official Website: All applications for KOSAF programs are typically processed through their official online portal.

Create an Account: Applicants will need to register and create an account on the KOSAF online system to begin the application process.

Select the Relevant Program: Choose the specific program (e.g., student loan, scholarship, career support) you wish to apply for.

Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the online application form, providing personal details, academic history, and financial information.

Upload Documents: Upload all required documents as per the program’s requirements.

Review and Submit: Double-check all entered information and submitted documents. Once everything is complete, submit the application.

4. Application Review and Screening

After submitting the application, KOSAF will typically carry out a screening process, which may involve:

Eligibility Verification: KOSAF verifies the applicant’s eligibility based on criteria such as enrollment status, academic performance, financial need, and specific program requirements.

Document Verification: KOSAF will review the submitted documents to confirm the authenticity and completeness of the application.

Selection Process: For scholarships or merit-based programs, applicants may be evaluated based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, and other relevant criteria.

5. Interview or Additional Evaluation (If Applicable)

Some KOSAF programs, especially scholarships and special support programs, may involve an interview or additional evaluation steps. This could include:

Interviews: In some cases, applicants may be asked to attend an interview, either in-person or online, to discuss their academic goals, career aspirations, and financial situation.

Further Documentation: KOSAF may request additional documentation or clarification during the evaluation process.

6. Results Notification

After the review process is complete, applicants will receive a notification of results via email or through the KOSAF online portal.

Successful Applicants: Those selected will be informed of their acceptance into the program and will receive details about the next steps, such as disbursement of funds (for loans or scholarships), internship opportunities, or other benefits.

Unsuccessful Applicants: If an applicant is not selected, they will typically be informed about the decision. Some programs may allow for an appeal process or reapplication in the future.

7. Disbursement of Funds (For Financial Aid Programs)

If the applicant is approved for a student loan or scholarship, KOSAF will disburse the funds. This process generally includes:

Loan Disbursement: For student loans, funds will be transferred to the university to cover tuition fees and possibly living expenses. Loan repayment terms will also be communicated.

Scholarship Payment: For scholarships, funds will be distributed directly to the student or the institution to cover tuition and/or living expenses.

8. Post-Award Follow-up

After receiving funding or support, KOSAF may conduct follow-up evaluations to ensure that students are fulfilling the requirements of their scholarships or loans:

Academic Progress Monitoring: KOSAF may require recipients to maintain a certain GPA or academic standard for continued support.

Career Development Support: KOSAF provides additional support, such as career counseling, internship opportunities, and job placement assistance, to help students maximize their educational experience.

Documents Required for Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs

1. General Documents for All KOSAF Programs

Proof of Enrollment:

A certificate of enrollment or admission from the student’s university in South Korea (for both domestic and international students).

Personal Identification:

A valid passport (for international students) or national ID card (for South Korean students).

Photo:

A recent passport-sized photograph (usually uploaded to the application portal).

Application Form:

Completed online application form via the KOSAF portal, which includes personal and academic details.

2. Financial Assistance Programs (Student Loans, Scholarships)

Proof of Financial Need:

Income certificates (e.g., family income, tax returns, or salary slips) to demonstrate financial need.

Bank statements (usually for the past 3 to 6 months) to assess financial status.

Household registration certificate (for South Korean students) or other family income verification documents.

Academic Records:

Transcripts from the student’s current or previous academic institutions.

GPA report (if required by the scholarship or loan program).

Letter of Recommendation (if required):

A recommendation letter from a professor or academic advisor (especially for merit-based scholarships).

Proof of Academic Excellence (for merit-based scholarships):

Copies of awards or academic certificates that highlight the student’s achievements.

Financial Documents for Dependents (if applicable):

Additional income and tax documents if the applicant claims dependents (such as siblings or parents).

3. Special Support Programs (Disadvantaged Groups, Disabilities, Low-Income Students)

Disability Certificate (for students with disabilities):

A valid certificate issued by a recognized government or medical institution confirming the disability.

Proof of Low-Income Status:

Additional documents, such as social welfare records or government assistance certificates, to verify eligibility for special support programs.

Family Support Documents:

If the student is supported by a guardian or family member, the guardian’s financial information may be required.

Statement of Need:

A personal statement or essay explaining the applicant’s financial situation, academic goals, and need for support.

4. International Student Assistance

Proof of Student Visa:

A valid student visa (D-2 visa for university students) or other relevant visa status.

Proof of Language Proficiency:

Korean language proficiency (TOPIK score) or English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS) if required by the program.

Recommendation Letters:

Letters of recommendation from professors or academic advisors from the applicant’s home country or South Korea.

Proof of Health Insurance:

A copy of the health insurance coverage for international students studying in South Korea.

Residence Documentation:

Proof of residence or housing arrangements in South Korea (e.g., dormitory registration or rental contract).

5. Career Development Programs and Internships

Resume or CV:

An updated CV detailing academic background, work experience, and skills relevant to the program or internship.

Letter of Motivation or Personal Statement:

A written statement explaining the student’s career goals and interest in the program or internship.

Academic Transcripts:

Transcripts that verify the student’s academic progress, especially if applying for internship programs or work-based opportunities.

Work Portfolio (if applicable):

If applying for an internship in a field like design, engineering, or media, a portfolio showcasing past work may be requested.

6. Private Sector and Corporate Scholarships

Specific Forms from Companies/Institutions:

Each corporate scholarship may require its own set of documents (such as application forms or company-specific criteria).

Letter of Intent:

Some corporate sponsors may require applicants to submit a letter of intent or cover letter explaining their interest in the scholarship or organization.

Certificates and Awards:

Copies of relevant certificates, awards, or honors received related to the field of study or future career.

7. Additional Documents (If Applicable)

Personal Statement or Essay:

A personal essay explaining the applicant’s academic journey, personal goals, and how the KOSAF support will help them achieve their objectives.

Social Welfare Verification:

For students who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, further proof of government assistance or social welfare enrollment might be required.

Translation of Documents:

All documents in a foreign language (except Korean or English) may need to be translated and notarized for submission.

Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs Courses List

1. Humanities and Social Sciences

Philosophy

Sociology

Psychology

Political Science

History

Law

Linguistics

Economics

2. Engineering and Technology

Electrical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Civil Engineering

Computer Science and Engineering

Chemical Engineering

Environmental Engineering

Bioengineering

Industrial Engineering

3. Natural Sciences

Physics

Chemistry

Biology

Mathematics

Astronomy

Geology

Environmental Science

4. Business and Economics

Business Administration

Marketing

Finance

Accounting

International Business

Econometrics

Supply Chain Management

5. Medical and Health Sciences

Medicine

Dentistry

Nursing

Pharmacy

Public Health

Biomedical Sciences

Healthcare Management

6. Arts and Design

Fine Arts

Graphic Design

Fashion Design

Interior Design

Industrial Design

Multimedia Arts

Architecture

7. Education

Elementary Education

Secondary Education

Special Education

Physical Education

Education Technology

Curriculum and Instruction

8. Agriculture and Life Sciences

Agricultural Science

Food Science

Forestry

Animal Science

Horticulture

Sustainable Agriculture

9. Social Work and Public Administration

Social Work

Public Administration

Nonprofit Management

Urban Planning

Environmental Policy

International Development

10. Interdisciplinary Studies

Cultural Studies

Global Studies

Sustainability Studies

Tourism Management

International Relations

Communication Studies

Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs for Bachelors

1. Student Loan Programs for Bachelor’s Students

KOSAF offers low-interest student loans to help undergraduate students cover tuition fees and living expenses. These loans are designed to ease the financial burden on students while allowing them to focus on their studies.

Key Features:

General Student Loans: Available for students who meet specific academic and financial criteria. These loans cover tuition fees and sometimes living costs.

Income-Contingent Loans: Designed for students from low-income families, repayments are based on the borrower’s income after graduation. This ensures that graduates are not overwhelmed with loan repayments early in their careers.

Repayment Flexibility: Loans are generally repaid after graduation, with flexible options for low-income borrowers.

Special Loans: Some programs are available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds (e.g., students with disabilities, students from rural areas, or low-income families).

2. National Scholarship Program (for Bachelor’s Students)

The National Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to South Korean students (and some international students) who demonstrate financial need. This program aims to ensure that students from low-income families can pursue higher education without financial constraints.

Key Features:

Full or Partial Scholarship: The scholarship covers tuition fees and may also provide living stipends for eligible students.

Eligibility: Primarily aimed at domestic students from low-income families, but some international students may be eligible as well based on their financial need and academic performance.

Application Period: Generally aligns with the spring and fall semesters, and applications are processed through participating universities.

3. Merit-Based Scholarships for Bachelor’s Students

KOSAF administers several merit-based scholarships for undergraduate students who demonstrate academic excellence. These scholarships reward students for their hard work and achievements in various fields of study.

Key Features:

Academic Performance: Scholarships are typically awarded to students with high GPAs or those who have shown exceptional performance in their field of study.

Field-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are tailored for students pursuing specific fields, such as engineering, medical sciences, or business.

Full or Partial Scholarships: The scholarship amount may vary, covering either part or all of tuition fees and sometimes living expenses.

External Partnerships: KOSAF collaborates with corporate sponsors, private institutions, and government bodies to offer additional merit-based scholarships.

4. International Student Financial Assistance (for Bachelor’s Students)

KOSAF also supports international students studying in South Korea, offering financial aid to help cover tuition and living costs.

Key Features:

Living Stipends: Some programs provide a monthly stipend to help international students manage their living expenses while studying in South Korea.

Tuition Support: KOSAF helps cover tuition fees for international students from low-income backgrounds.

Eligibility: International students enrolled in eligible universities can apply for scholarships or loans based on financial need and academic performance.

Cultural and Academic Support: KOSAF offers additional resources to help international students adjust to life in South Korea, such as language support and cultural exchange programs.

5. Career Development Support for Bachelor’s Students

KOSAF offers career-related support to help undergraduate students transition from university to the workforce. These services are particularly valuable for students nearing graduation or seeking internship opportunities.

Key Features:

Internship Programs: KOSAF partners with companies and institutions to offer internship opportunities that provide practical work experience and enhance employability.

Job Placement Assistance: Students can receive job placement support through KOSAF’s career counseling services, which include resume building, interview preparation, and employer networking.

Career Workshops: Workshops and seminars focus on personal development, including topics such as professional skills, networking, and financial literacy.

6. Special Support Programs for Disadvantaged Students

KOSAF provides special support for undergraduate students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, including students with disabilities, those from rural areas, and low-income families.

Key Features:

Disability Assistance: Students with disabilities may be eligible for additional financial aid and academic support.

Low-Income Students: Extra financial assistance is available to ensure that students from low-income families can attend university without financial barriers.

Rural Area Students: Students from rural areas may receive targeted support, including scholarships and financial aid, to encourage their pursuit of higher education.

Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs for Masters

1. Student Loan Programs for Master's Students

KOSAF provides low-interest loans to help master’s students cover their tuition fees and living expenses. These loans are aimed at reducing the financial burden on students while they focus on their academic goals.

Key Features:

General Student Loans: Available to master's students who meet the academic and financial criteria, these loans help cover tuition fees and sometimes living costs.

Income-Contingent Loans: Designed for students from low-income backgrounds, repayments are based on the student’s future income after graduation. This program offers flexibility, ensuring that students aren’t burdened by large debt payments early in their careers.

Special Loan Programs: Some loans are available for students in specific fields of study or those who belong to disadvantaged groups (e.g., students with disabilities or those from rural areas).

Flexible Repayment Terms: Loan repayment typically begins after graduation, and there are flexible repayment plans available for students based on their income.

2. National Scholarship Program (for Master’s Students)

The National Scholarship Program provides financial support to both domestic and international master’s students. This scholarship is particularly aimed at helping students from low-income families pursue higher education.

Key Features:

Full or Partial Scholarships: The scholarship covers tuition fees and may provide a living stipend to eligible students.

Eligibility: Primarily for South Korean students, but some international students may be eligible based on financial need or academic merit.

Application Period: Applications are typically accepted at the beginning of the academic year (spring and fall semesters), and students apply through their university’s office.

3. Merit-Based Scholarships for Master's Students

KOSAF offers various merit-based scholarships that reward master's students for their academic excellence. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate outstanding performance in their studies or research.

Key Features:

Academic Achievement: Scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional academic records or research output.

Field-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are dedicated to students pursuing specific fields, such as STEM, business, engineering, or social sciences.

Full or Partial Funding: Scholarships may cover tuition and sometimes living expenses, depending on the specific scholarship.

Competitive Selection: Students are evaluated based on academic performance, research potential, and sometimes additional criteria, such as leadership or community involvement.

4. International Student Financial Assistance for Master's Students

KOSAF provides targeted financial support for international students pursuing a master’s degree in South Korea. These programs are aimed at making it easier for international students to study in South Korea, by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other academic costs.

Key Features:

Living Stipends: Some programs offer monthly stipends to help international students cover their living costs while studying in South Korea.

Tuition Assistance: Scholarships are available to cover tuition fees, reducing the financial burden on international graduate students.

Eligibility: International students enrolled in eligible South Korean universities can apply for financial aid based on their academic standing and financial need.

Cultural and Academic Support: In addition to financial aid, KOSAF provides language programs, cultural exchange initiatives, and academic support to help international students adjust to life in South Korea.

5. Career Development Programs for Master's Students

KOSAF offers career development services to help master’s students successfully transition from graduate school to the professional world. These services include internships, job placement support, and career counseling.

Key Features:

Internships: KOSAF partners with South Korean companies to offer internship opportunities in various industries. These internships provide students with practical work experience.

Job Placement Assistance: KOSAF helps students with job search by providing access to job fairs, career counseling, and employer networks.

Resume Building and Interview Coaching: KOSAF offers workshops and seminars to help students prepare for the job market by improving their resumes and interview skills.

Networking Opportunities: KOSAF organizes events and networking sessions where students can meet potential employers and other professionals in their field.

6. Special Support for Disadvantaged Groups in Graduate Programs

KOSAF offers special support programs for master's students from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as students with disabilities, low-income families, or those from rural areas. These programs aim to reduce barriers to higher education for underrepresented groups.

Key Features:

Financial Assistance: Additional scholarships or loan programs may be available for students from low-income families or students with disabilities.

Academic Support: KOSAF may provide personalized academic support to students with special needs, ensuring they have access to resources and accommodations necessary for their studies.

Extended Loan Repayment: For students from disadvantaged backgrounds, KOSAF may offer extended repayment terms or lower interest rates on student loans to make repayment more manageable.

7. Research Grants and Support for Master's Students

Some KOSAF programs are specifically designed to support master's students engaged in research. These programs may offer funding for research projects, conference attendance, and other academic activities.

Key Features:

Research Funding: Financial support for students conducting research, including grants for purchasing materials or attending conferences.

Conference Travel Support: Some programs provide financial assistance to students who wish to present their research at national or international conferences.

Research Collaboration: KOSAF encourages collaboration between South Korean and international graduate students, providing funding for joint research projects and academic exchanges.

Scholarship Coverage of Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs

1. National Scholarship Program

The National Scholarship Program aims to provide financial support to students from low-income families to ensure they can pursue higher education without financial burdens.

Scholarship Coverage:

Tuition Fees: Covers full or partial tuition fees, depending on the student's financial need.

Living Expenses: May provide a monthly stipend to help with living expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.

Additional Support: For eligible students, the scholarship may also cover study materials or other academic-related costs.

2. Merit-Based Scholarships

KOSAF offers merit-based scholarships to reward students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance or talent in their field of study.

Scholarship Coverage:

Full or Partial Tuition: Covers full tuition fees or a partial amount, depending on the specific scholarship and the student’s academic standing.

Living Stipend: Some merit-based scholarships also provide a living stipend to help students manage daily expenses while studying.

Field-Specific Support: Some merit-based scholarships target specific fields, such as engineering, medicine, or business, and may provide additional support for research activities or conference attendance.

3. International Student Scholarships

KOSAF provides financial assistance to international students studying in South Korea, aiming to make education more affordable for students from other countries.

Scholarship Coverage:

Tuition Fees: The scholarship may cover partial or full tuition fees for international students.

Living Stipend: A monthly allowance is provided to international students to assist with living expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.

Additional Benefits: Some programs may also offer health insurance or provide cultural and academic supportto help international students adjust to life in South Korea.

4. Income-Contingent Loan Scholarships

These scholarships are aimed at low-income students who demonstrate financial need. In some cases, KOSAF offers a combination of scholarships and loans to help students manage their tuition and living costs.

Scholarship Coverage:

Tuition Fees: Income-contingent loan scholarships cover tuition fees, with flexible repayment options based on the student's post-graduation income.

Living Expenses: Some programs also provide support for living expenses, including housing and food costs, in the form of stipends or allowances.

Loan Repayment Flexibility: These loans have repayment terms that adjust based on the student's income after they finish their degree, ensuring the burden is manageable.

5. Special Support for Disadvantaged Groups

KOSAF provides additional support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those with disabilities or those from low-income or rural families.

Scholarship Coverage:

Full Tuition Coverage: For eligible students, the scholarship may cover full tuition fees and offer a higher stipend to accommodate additional needs.

Living Stipends: A monthly stipend may be provided to help with daily living costs, depending on the student’s financial situation.

Academic Support: In some cases, special educational resources or accommodations (such as assistive technologies for students with disabilities) may be provided.

6. Career Development Support

Though not a traditional scholarship, KOSAF offers career development programs that include financial assistance for internships, job placement, and career-related activities.

Coverage:

Internship Support: KOSAF partners with companies to provide stipends for students participating in internships, which help students gain practical experience while studying.

Job Placement Assistance: KOSAF also offers networking opportunities and job placement support to help students secure employment after graduation.

7. Research Grants for Graduate Students

For students pursuing graduate programs (master’s and PhD), KOSAF offers research grants to support academic and research activities.

Coverage:

Research Funding: The grant may cover costs associated with research projects, such as purchasing materials or conducting experiments.

Conference Travel: Some research grants provide funding for students to attend conferences or present their research at national or international events.

8. Private Sector and Corporate Scholarships

KOSAF partners with private companies and organizations to offer specialized scholarships for students, particularly those in specific fields of study or pursuing internships.

Coverage:

Full or Partial Tuition: Depending on the sponsoring organization, scholarships may cover full or partial tuition fees.

Stipends for Internships: Scholarships may also include stipends or salary support for students participating in corporate-sponsored internships.

Additional Benefits: Corporate scholarships may provide networking opportunities and potential for future employment with the sponsoring company.

Tips to Strengthen Your Korea Student Aid Foundation (KOSAF) Programs Application

1. Review Eligibility Criteria Thoroughly

Understand Requirements: Make sure you fully understand the eligibility criteria for the program you are applying to (e.g., scholarships, student loans). Each program has specific requirements based on factors like financial need, academic performance, or demographic background.

Check Specific Requirements for International Students: If you're an international student, ensure you meet visa, academic, and language proficiency requirements.

2. Provide Complete and Accurate Documentation

Double-Check Documents: Ensure all required documents are complete and submitted in the correct format (PDF, JPEG, etc.). Missing or incorrect documents can delay or disqualify your application.

Financial Proof: Be diligent in gathering accurate financial documents (e.g., income certificates, family tax records) to demonstrate your financial need. The more transparent and thorough your financial documents are, the better.

Academic Transcripts: Upload official transcripts and ensure your academic performance is clearly reflected. If your grades have improved significantly, make that evident in your personal statement.

Letters of Recommendation: If the program requires recommendation letters, choose referees who know you well academically or professionally and can speak to your strengths in detail.

3. Write a Strong Personal Statement or Essay

Showcase Your Motivation: In your personal statement, explain why you need the scholarship or loan, your academic goals, and how the support will help you achieve them. Highlight how your studies align with your long-term career aspirations.

Be Specific: Use specific examples to show why you are a strong candidate. Discuss your academic achievements, community involvement, or personal challenges that you have overcome.

Emphasize Your Financial Need: Be honest and clear about your financial circumstances. Explain why financial support is critical for you to continue your education.

Tailor Your Statement: Customize your statement to align with the particular KOSAF program you're applying for. Highlight the aspects of your background that align with the program's mission (e.g., merit-based, financial need, or underrepresented groups).

4. Ensure High Academic Performance

Maintain Strong GPA: If you're applying for merit-based scholarships, ensure you maintain a high GPA. If possible, improve your academic standing before submitting your application.

Highlight Achievements: Include any awards, honors, or research projects you have completed. This can further demonstrate your academic excellence or commitment to your field of study.

5. Demonstrate Involvement in Extracurricular Activities

Show Leadership Skills: Participate in extracurricular activities like student organizations, volunteer work, or internships. Leadership roles or contributions to community projects can make you stand out as a well-rounded candidate.

Community Engagement: If possible, show how your activities have contributed to your community or helped you develop relevant skills that will benefit you academically or professionally.

6. Prepare for Interviews (If Applicable)

Be Ready for an Interview: If your application includes an interview stage (common for competitive merit-based programs), practice common questions and answers. Focus on explaining your goals, why you chose your field of study, and how the scholarship or loan will help you achieve success.

Prepare with Confidence: When discussing your financial need, academic plans, or long-term goals, speak confidently and clearly. Make sure your motivation and aspirations are evident.

7. Follow Instructions Carefully

Read Guidelines Thoroughly: Before submitting your application, make sure to read all the instructions provided by KOSAF. Following the application format, adhering to the word limits, and meeting all deadlines are crucial to avoid disqualification.

Respect Deadlines: Submit your application on time. Missing the deadline, even by a day, could result in automatic disqualification.

8. Provide Additional Supporting Materials

Extra Documentation: If you are involved in unique academic or professional projects (such as research, published work, or internships), consider submitting supplementary materials that highlight your experience and skills.

Language Proficiency: If required (particularly for international students), provide language proficiency certificates (like TOPIK for Korean or TOEFL/IELTS for English) to show your ability to study in South Korea.

9. Ensure Accurate and Consistent Information

Consistency: Double-check all the information in your application to ensure consistency across all documents (e.g., name, dates, and contact information). Small errors or inconsistencies can raise concerns.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your personal statement, essays, and any written components to ensure they are clear, concise, and free from errors.

10. Use KOSAF's Online Resources

KOSAF Portal: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the KOSAF online application portal. It may include helpful guides, FAQ sections, and application tips that can make the process smoother.

Ask for Clarification: If you are unclear about any aspect of the application process, don’t hesitate to contact KOSAF for clarification. It’s better to ask questions in advance than to make assumptions.