• No student should be discouraged from applying for financial aid. Various circumstances could qualify an otherwise ineligible student for aid. You'll never know if you qualify, unless you apply!

  • Fafsa is now mobile and by using FAFSA on the Web, students can complete and file the FAFSA using the Internet. The college requires all students who have Internet access to apply for financial aid via the Internet. FAFSA on the Web reduces filing errors and speeds an electronic Student Aid Report back to the student within 3-5 days!

  • The federal government offers many important student aid programs, including the Federal Pell Grant Program. All students must apply for a Federal Pell Grant to see if they are eligible for FREE federal aid first.

  • If a student is independent, the student’s income and assets alone (and spouse’s income and assets, if married) are considered in determining financial aid eligibility. Parental income and assets are not included for independent students.

  • A family’s ability to pay is determined by federal standards established by Congress. Factors considered include the family’s size, income, assets, parent’s age, and number of family members in college.

  • Students should not submit more than one FAFSA each school year. Remember, the  FAFSA cannot be dated, mailed, or filed before October 1 of each year

  • Not all financial aid is need-based. For example, Unsubsidized Stafford Loans may be available to qualified students regardless of income. But, you do have to file for financial aid first using the FAFSA.

  • Students become eligible for need-based financial aid when their family’s ability to pay is less than the cost of attendance at the school they plan to attend.

  • Federal laws and regulations governing financial aid programs are subject to an annual funding review by Congress.

  • A student ineligible for one kind of financial aid may be eligible for other types of assistance.

  • Most campuses have their own institutional grants, work-study jobs, scholarships or other financial aid. Students should check directly with each college’s financial aid office. Many community organizations and employers also offer scholarships.

  • Educational loans can help students realize their educational goals but loans must be repaid with interest. Students should exercise caution in borrowing – and borrow only what they need.

  • Students who begin their studies in the Spring semester must also meet deadlines for a Fall semester start in order to get a full aid package.

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