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Applying for Financial Aid

The financial aid process doesn't have to be complicated. Follow these tips to help prepare for the process:
  • Research Deadlines. Know what to expect from the process by researching the required applications and deadlines. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the standardized form used to determine your eligibility. Plan to complete the application online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
  • Gather Required Documents. Filing the FAFSA will be easier if you have the necessary documents on hand.
  • Get a PIN. The student and one parent should apply for a PIN. You will need a PIN to sign your FAFSA on the Web application electronically, make corrections to a submitted FAFSA, and to access your U.S. Department of Education records online. To apply for a PIN, go to www.pin.ed.gov.
  • File your taxes early. You will need a completed tax return in order to submit the FAFSA. Although you can estimate your taxes if necessary to meet deadlines, you will need your completed return to finalize your financial aid.
  • Know your options. Be sure you have applied for any and all financial aid that may be available from the college, as well as private sources. You may find out about institutional aid from the college website or other materials from the college.
  • Budget Carefully. Before you or your student borrow loans, be sure to create a budget. Only borrow what you really need to cover the student's educational expenses. Ask the college if there are payment plans available to help cover your out-of-pocket costs before you decide to borrow.
Click here to find out what financial aid was available for Brenda's son as he prepared for his first year of college.  TIP: There are no fees to file the FAFSA. You may be solicited by a business that offers to complete your FAFSA for a fee. Beware of these offers and remember that you don't have to pay anyone to conduct a scholarship search or complete your application. If you have questions or need guidance, contact us at 877-272-4456.