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How To Apply

Financial aid comes from many sources - the State of Iowa, the federal government, individual colleges and universities, private businesses or foundations, professional organizations, employers, community trusts, civic groups and other entities.
  1. Search for FREE money
    Scholarships and grants do not have to be repaid. Scholarships may be based on special skills, career interests, community involvement, and association with a specific group or geographical area. Many scholarships are one-year awards; some are renewable. State and Federal Grants are given to students who have financial need. Typically, grants are renewed through multiple years of college, assuming you continue to demonstrate financial need. For information about scholarship and grant programs and how to apply, visit the scholarship and grant section of the Commission's website.
  2. Apply for Admission
    If you haven’t already contacted a college representative, call the admissions office to request admission and financial aid information and applications. Most colleges and universities also have online admission applications. Introduce yourself as an adult student and ask if there is an admission representative who works specifically with adult students.
  3. Complete a FAFSA
    To qualify for most financial aid programs, you must first complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The FAFSA is used by colleges and universities to determine your financial aid eligibility. The quickest and most accurate way to file the FAFSA is online. The online application is secure and includes online assistance and prompts. Paper applications may be requested by calling 800-433-3243. You also may download a PDF version of the FAFSA that can be submitted for processing.
  4. After the FAFSA
    Within 3 weeks of filing the FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). The SAR contains information about your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), as well as initial information about your Pell Grant eligibility. Your SAR will be used by the college to determine eligibility for other financial aid programs. Review your SAR carefully and follow any instructions. If you need to correct or update information, contact the college or go online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
  5. Award Notification/Choosing Your College
    Once you are admitted, each college or university you specified on your FAFSA will supply you with an award letter outlining the financial aid it can offer. This award letter will include the state and federal aid which you are eligible to receive, as well as college-specific financial aid. Your package will most likely include student loans. Evaluate the offer carefully and be sure you understand what is being offered. [More Information]