• Phone256-372-4600
  • AddressHuntsville, AL 35806
  • Open Hours8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Phone256-372-4600
  • AddressHuntsville, AL 35806
  • Open Hours8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

 Here is an Overview of the Financial Aid Basics You Need to Know.

o The most important step in the process is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will determine your eligibility for federal funds.

o Step 1– Check your Dependency Status to determine if you will need to report your parent’s and your information.

o Step 2Create your account, your username and password will be referred to as your FSA ID.

o Step 3– Log into the account AS THE STUDENT

o Step 4– Complete the application process.

o If you are Dependent, your parents will also need to create an account and use their account to sign your FAFSA.

The FAFSA portal opens in December for the upcoming academic year. The earlier you apply, the better your opportunity of receiving certain funds that are awarded on a first come first served basis.

You will be notified via email or text when your FAFSA has been processed. At that time, you can contact the school(s) which you have applied to follow-up and see if there is anything else you need to do.

Take time to compare offers from the different schools, to make sure you are making the best financial decision for your situation.

Who Should Apply?

“Anyone who is a U.S. citizen, or an eligible non-citizen enrolling in an eligible degreed or certificate program at your college or career school.” studentaid.gov

1. The FAFSA determines eligibility for federal funds.

2. Many SCHOLARSHIP donors will confirm there is a FAFSA on file at your school before determining eligibility for scholarships you might apply for.

If you are thinking about attending college or a career school, or you have already enrolled, the financial aid application is an important step in the process, even if you do not plan to use the federal funds.

 

My Financial Aid is Not Enough to Cover Expenses! Now What?

There are several other options for you if the aid that is offered is not enough to cover your college expenses.

Scholarships– The earlier you begin to apply and search, the better your options of securing the funds needed in a timely manner. Scholarships are not a quick fix solution to educational funding, but they are a strong, viable option, even if you have enough funds to cover expenses.

 Institutional Scholarships– Ask the institution if they have any scholarships that you might be eligible for. Most times they will offer you what they have, but it doesn’t hurt to ask for other options from the school.

External Scholarships– The earlier you begin the scholarship search, the more likely you will find funding in time. The scholarship journey is longer than applying for federal aid, but to those who are persistent and do not give up, is generally worth the effort.

Part-time Job

Payment Plans

 And more

 

Contact your institution of choice or your EOC counselor for more information!