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DETERMINE
INSTITUTIONAL COSTS |
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Information about college expenses can be
obtained from the college financial aid office, admissions office, college
catalog or directory. Don't eliminate any college because of high costs . .
. look carefully at financial aid. |
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APPLY FOR
ADMISSION |
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Before a student's chances for aid can
determined, many colleges require both an application for admission and
financial aid. Keep in mind all deadline dates. |
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INVESTIGATE
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF AID |
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The major sources of aid are: grants,
scholarships, loans, and work. Most students consider grant and loan
applications first. Your high school counselor or a financial aid officer
can provide more information about resources. Be sure to visit
Federal Financial Aid Programs before you leave! |
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SECURE THE
NECESSARY FORMS |
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There are usually two forms required in the
aid process: a college financial aid application form and a need analysis
form. The need analysis form is called the "Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA)" and is avaliable in the high school guidance office and
the college financial aid office. |
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SUBMIT
APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL AID |
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Deadlines for the application vary at each
institution. It is advisable to develop a calendar of important deadline
dates . . . consult the financial aid office at each college. Be sure to
keep copies of all forms submitted in the aid process. |
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COMPLETE A
NEED ANALYSIS FORM |
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To help distribute limited funds fairly, most
colleges require a need analysis form. The need analysis service calculates
how much you and your family can pay for education and sends results to your
college choices. The amount of aid you need depends on college costs and
your expected family contribution. Forms should be filed after January 1. |
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APPLY FOR
SCHOLARSHIPS, GRANTS, AND LOANS |
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In addition to applying for the Federal Pell
Grant (the major source of financial aid) be sure to inquire about state
scholarship, grant and loan programs, as well as institutional, community,
foundation, and corporate programs. |
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KEEP
TRACK OF PROGRESS |
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Monitor information from the college business
office regarding fees, payment schedules, etc. Incorporate in your plan
information about your award from the financial aid office. |
