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How to Apply

How to Apply

College is expensive, right? It's true that college does cost money, but there is probably financial aid available to help you pay the cost. You need to know what to do and where to look to get it!

1. Search for FREE money
   Grants and scholarships (free money) are out there for you to attend college. Usually you have to meet the requirements of the program to be eligible. You can find them from the government, the college, or from private sources.
2. Complete a FAFSA
   Most of those free programs will require you to first complete your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The college will use your FAFSA results to figure out what kind of financial aid you can get. You will want to submit your FAFSA during your senior year in high school (as soon after January 1st as possible). The best way to file is to do it online at FASFA on the Web or request a paper application by calling 800-433-3243. You also may download and complete a PDF version of the FAFSA that you can submit for processing.
3. Your Student Aid Report
   In about 3 weeks after you submit your FAFSA, you will get a Student Aid Report (SAR). When you get it, read it over and make sure everything is correct. If you need to make any corrections, go to FAFSA on the Web.
4. Award Notification/Choosing your College
   Once you have been admitted, each college you listed on your FAFSA will send you an award letter telling you the financial aid you can get at their school. Your award letter will probably include loans. Sit down with your parents and go over the money that is being offered and talk about your options. [More Information]