Frequently Asked Questions
The thought of paying for college got your head swimming? So many programs with so many cryptic names, acronyms everywhere. You're not alone! And to unravel some of the mystery, we've compiled a number of questions frequently asked. So, calm down, and give these a read. You'll be better informed - and nothing takes away anxiety like good information.
Q: I doubt I qualify for student financial help... Should I still apply?
A: Yes. A good number of families make the mistake of thinking they do not qualify financial programs and so disallow themselves from getting the financial aid they are actually qualified for. There are also a few places to get aid that are not need based, such as PLUS and Stafford loans that are unsubsidized.
Q: Before I apply for financial aid at my university, must I be admitted?
A: No. Any time after January 1st, you can fill out an application for financial aid. To get the funds, you must be admitted and enrolled at the school, however.
Q: Is this an every year thing applying for financial aid?
A: Yes. If your financial situation change or if your grades drop, the amount you qualify for might change as well, and so new forms need to be filled out each year. However, you'll receive a "Renewal Application" after your first year that contains information that's been preprinted from the last year's application.
Q: How do I get a Pell Grant or other types of aid based on need?
A: Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You also have the option of expressing interest in student loans, student employment, and loans to parent. You're not committed to any of these by checking the boxes on the FAFSA - but leaving boxes not checked won't increase the volume of grants you receive either.
Q: Where can I get a copy of the FAFSA?
A: You can get a copy of the FAFSA form from your guidance counselor, the financial aid office at a local college, your local public library, or by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID. The online version of the form is available at the federal government's official FAFSA website.
Q: I received an outside scholarship. Do I need to tell the financial aid office?
A: Yes. If you will receive any financial aid from university or government sources, you must report the scholarship to the financial aid office. This will impact your eligibility for certain sources of financial aid.
Q: Where do I find additional Federal student financial aid information?
A: Call the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) by dialing 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) or 1-800-730-8913 (if you can't hear). If you tell them, they'll send a free copy of The Student Guide: Financial Aid from the US Department of Education. Provided toll free by the US Department of Education, the hotline can answer questions about financial aid. You might also write to: Federal Student Aid Information Center, PO Box 84, Washington, DC 20044.
Are there terms that have been confusing you so far? The glossary on this site can help you get to know the terms better with your financial aid process
