HOW TO FIND FINANCIAL AID

A. Apply to the college of your choice.

1. You must be accepted by the educational institute of your choice before they can offer you financial or scholarship aid.

2. You must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it to the college Scholarship Service (www.fafsa.ed.gov/).

a. Set up your FSA ID.

b. Most financial aid is based upon need.

c. Financial aid packages are generally awarded to eligible applicants on a "first come, first served" basis.  Therefore, it is wise to electronically submit all forms as early as possible.  Be aware of the  deadline for the FAFSA.  See your counselor for details.

4. For information on any federal student financial aid program, call 1-800-4FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).

3. Some schools require the Profile Form in addition to the FAFSA.  Check with school or high school counselor for more information.

B. Financial Aid Packages consist of one or more of the following components.

1. Scholarships:  awards which are given by the college, university, or other institution to students as outright gifts which do not have to be repaid.

2. Grants:  a form of scholarship usually provided by State or Federal agencies.

a. Students must fill out special application forms to be considered for a Grant.

b. Grants do not have to be paid back.

c. The Grant amount is based mainly on family financial need.

3. Loans:  can be arranged through the college/university or through local banks.

a. Loans must be paid back, depending on the term of the loan.

b. Repayment of most loans does not start until several months after graduation.

c. The federal government pays the interest for Direct Subsidized Loans while the student is in college or while the loan is in deferment. Interest begins accruing for Direct Unsubsidized Loans as soon as the loan is taken out.

4. College Work Study:  can be arranged through the work study office at the college/university (most jobs are campus-based).

3. PRE-ESTIMATOR PROGRAMS are available and may be required by your college of choice.  See your counselor for more information.
4. Internet Sources
5. https://www.fastweb.com/
6. https://www.scholarships.com