Financial Aid Tips

1. Contact the financial aid office at all schools you are considering attending. Although the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form is used at most schools, there is often an institutional application or other information needed that is specific to each school. Submit college-specific applications for financial aid as required.

2. Parents are encouraged to complete their income tax returns in January so figures reported on the FAFSA will be accurate. The FAFSA should be submitted as soon as possible after January 1 of the senior year. Please note, colleges award available funds as FAFSA reports are received.

3. Indicate on the FAFSA the colleges to which you would like the Student Aid Report (SAR) sent.

4. You are encouraged to learn about civic, social and religious organizations in your area which sponsor scholarship programs. Refer to VHHS website and internet scholarship searches. (Refer to page 34.)

5. Most schools have some institutional money available to students who may not qualify for Federal aid. Students should specifically ask for this information.

6. Financial Aid administrators are available to help students complete forms and explain the application process. Take advantage of this service especially in difficult or unusual situations. Taking time to complete the forms properly can save time and frustration in the long run.

7. Students should apply for admission as early as possible. Most schools will not offer you a financial aid package unless you have been accepted for enrollment.

8. All males who are at least 18 years old, who were born after December 31, 1959, and who are not currently on active duty with the armed forces must be registered with the Selective Service in order to receive any Federal financial assistance. Proof of registration will be required.

9. All Federal financial aid is awarded on the basis of demonstrated financial need. The formula used to determine a student’s eligibility does not expect the parents to contribute 100% of their savings toward the student’s educational expenses, but each family is expected to contribute a reasonable amount based on their ages, the size of the family, the number in college, and the family’s assets and income.

10. Parents can estimate their expected family contribution (EFC) by visiting www.FAFSA.ed.gov and clicking on the link for FAFSA4caster in the lower right corner of the homepage.

Students are often expected to provide documentation to verify the information reported on the FAFSA. Accurately reporting information will help you receive your financial aid in a timely manner.