Applying to college this year? January is the time to file your financial aid forms!
Jan 8th, 2008 by Academics Plus Tutoring
So you’ve decided on a college, but have you thought of how it will be paid for?
Students and parents often forget to account for the cost of college. With tuition prices going up, families often look to loans to cover what may at first appear to be fairly small cost, but forget that this cost is multiplied by four or even five years. It is essential that they apply for financial aid or other school specific financial aid forms. And January is the time to get started!
Starting January 1st, students are able to submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid, more commonly known as the FAFSA. This very important document is used to determine how much financial aid a student will receive from the federal government and their college of choice.
In addition, students should let their colleges of choice know as soon as possible whether they are in need of financial assistance as some of the money schools receive is federally funded, and that goes quickly.
Keep in mind that your school guidance counselors can be a helpful resource. Many counselors are available to help college bound seniors who have fallen behind in the financial aid process and many are able to offer helpful tips and hints that can make the financial aid application process easier and more effective.
For instance, many counselors encourage families to start this process by getting taxes done in January so that current financial information is available; it is also suggested that all families to fill out financial aid applications even those who believe their income might be too high to receive aid. Although not every student will qualify for need-based grants or scholarships (gift aid), every student is at least eligible for participation in the Federal student loan program (self-help aid) and there are no income limitations on aid.
Good luck!
Our goal is to make this blog the most helpful and informative blog on Academic Success and SAT preparation. To do this, we need your help, so please give us your feedback and make comments to our blog!! For more information, FREE articles, resources and audio files, visit: www.howtoacethesat.com and www.academics-plus.com
Posts
