FINANCIAL AID

Don't let the cost of college stop you from applying.

Every year, more than eight million college students receive financial aid to pay for education after high school. However, hundreds of students do not receive the money they need to pay for college, simply because they don't apply.

To apply for financial aid you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Information from the FAFSA qualifies you for all forms of federal aid (and many state and college-specific aid), including student grants, work-study funds, loans and many state and private scholarships.

Your financial need determines the type and amount of aid you qualify for and depends on how expensive your college is.

The cost of college is a key factor in determining your level of need for financial aid. You may be eligible for more financial aid at a higher-cost college or university than at a less expensive one. As a rule, the amount you and your family are expected to contribute will remain the same from school to school, but your financial aid will increase or decrease depending on the cost of attendance. 

Don't wait to file the FAFSA.

College Goal Sunday Washington is in January, so your application will be processed while there is plenty of financial aid available. (Details on 2008 coming soon.) Many forms of aid, including scholarships and grants, are on a first-come, first-serve basis and February 15 is preferred deadline. While you may still submit forms after this date, you may miss out on aid opportunities--so don't wait to file!

You can complete a paper copy of the FAFSA, or apply and sign electronically on the Internet. Learn more about how to apply or visit www.fafsa.ed.gov.