Financial Aid Info

FAFSA:

All colleges require the FAFSA (Free Application Federal Student Aid). Complete the form online at www.fafsa.gov or download paper forms there. You can even import your family’s tax information directly from the IRS website. The FAFSA application can be submitted as early as October. 1, 2019. Cost: Free

What is Federal Student Aid?

To qualify for many types of aid, you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application gives you access to these types of aid:

  • Grants and scholarships: money you don’t have to pay back

  • Work-study jobs: paid, part-time work that’s generally on campus

  • Loans: money you need to pay back, usually after you graduate

Who gets Federal Aid?

Every student who meets certain eligibility requirements can get some type of federal student aid, regardless of age or family income. Some of the most basic eligibility requirements are that you must:

  • demonstrate financial need

  • be a U.S. Citizen or an eligible non-citizen.

  • have a valid Social Security number.

  • register (if you haven't already) with the Selective Service if your a male between the ages of 18 and 25.

  • maintain satisfactory academic progress in college or career school; and

  • show that you are qualified to obtain a college or career school education by

    • having a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate or state recognized equivalent;or

    • completing a high school education in a home-school setting approved under state law; or

    • enrolling in an eligible career pathways program.

FAFSA TIP:

It is strongly recommended that you create an FSA ID, a username and password combination that allows you to sign your FAFSA® form electronically. Your FSA ID also can be used to access the myStudentAid app, sign loan contracts, and access certain information online. While you can get your FSA ID as you’re completing the FAFSA form online, getting it ahead of time and using it to begin your FAFSA form on fafsa.gov or on the myStudentAid mobile app cuts down on errors and delays.

Other Types of Aid:

  • Financial aid at the colleges you are applying to

    • Private scholarships you are eligible for

    • The FAFSA qualifies you for federal aid, but many state governments and colleges also use this application to award their own aid.

    • Seniors should check their NAVIANCE accounts for scholarships available; They are regularly updated and applications can be printed directly from the scholarship site.

Other Financial Aid Sites:

Connecticut Financial Aid Sites