Financial Aid & Paying for College

Making College Affordable

Paying for college is one of the biggest investments a family will make, but there are many resources available to help reduce the cost. Grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, federal student loans, state aid, and institutional aid can all help make higher education more affordable.

The Central Columbia High School Counseling Department is here to help students and families understand the financial aid process, complete required applications, and make informed decisions about paying for college.

What is the FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the application used by colleges and universities to determine a student's eligibility for:

• Federal Pell Grants

• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)

• Federal Work-Study

• Federal Direct Student Loans

• Some state grants

• Institutional (college) financial aid

• Many scholarship programs

Every student planning to attend college, trade school, or many career training programs should complete the FAFSA even if you think your family may not qualify for aid.

FAFSA Quick Links

Federal Student Aid (Official Website)

https://studentaid.gov

Complete the FAFSA

https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

Create Your FSA ID

https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id

FAFSA Help Center

https://studentaid.gov/help-center

What You'll Need to Complete the FAFSA

Before you begin, gather:

• Student Social Security Number (or eligible noncitizen documentation)

• Parent Social Security Number(s), if applicable

• Driver's License (if applicable)

• Federal income tax information

• Records of untaxed income (if applicable)

• Current balances of cash, savings, and investments

• StudentAid.gov (FSA ID) for both student and parent (if required)

The FAFSA has become more streamlined in recent years, and much of the required tax information can be transferred electronically when available.

Tips for Completing the FAFSA

File Early

• Many grants and institutional aid programs have limited funding.

• Submitting the FAFSA shortly after it opens can maximize your eligibility for available aid.\

File Every Year

• Financial aid is not automatically renewed.

• Students should complete a new FAFSA every year they plan to attend college.

Don't Assume You Won't Qualify

• Many middle-income families qualify for financial aid.

• Some scholarships require a completed FAFSA regardless of financial need.

Double Check Everything

Small mistakes can delay financial aid.

Review:

• Social Security Numbers

• Birthdates

• School Codes

• Parent information

• Signatures

Watch Your Email

Colleges may request:

• Verification documents

• Tax forms

• Additional financial aid paperwork

Respond quickly to avoid delays.

Understanding Financial Aid

Grants

Grants are money that generally does not need to be repaid.

Examples include:

• Federal Pell Grant

• Pennsylvania State Grant

• Institutional Grants

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded based on:

• Academic achievement

• Athletics

• Community service

• Leadership

• Career interests

• Financial need

• Special talents

Scholarships also do not need to be repaid.

Work-Study

Federal Work-Study allows eligible students to earn money through part-time employment while attending college.

Student Loans

Loans help cover educational expenses but must be repaid with interest.

Whenever possible:

1. Accept grants and scholarships first.

2. Consider work-study.

3. Use federal student loans before private loans, as they often include more flexible repayment options and borrower protections.

Comparing Financial Aid Offers

Receiving several financial aid offers? Compare more than just the total dollar amount.

Consider:

• Total Cost of Attendance

• Grants & Scholarships

• Federal Loans

• Work-Study

• Remaining Out-of-Pocket Cost

• Four-Year Graduation Rate

• Average Student Debt

Sometimes the school with the lowest tuition isn't the least expensive after financial aid is applied.