Paying for College
Financial Aid
Financial Aid is any money from a source other than the family to assist with the cost of attending college.
4 main types of financial aid:
Scholarships
Loans
Grants
Work Study
To start the process of financial aid, the college will require the FAFSA or TAFSA be completed.
Financial Aid
What is FAFSA?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
When do I complete the FAFSA?
The application opens October 1st of every year. Senior families should try to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to ensure maximum award if the student qualifies. The State of Texas has a financial aid priority deadline of January 15th for most universities. Financial Aid is first come, first serve - so apply early to maximize your financial aid package and "free money".
What do I need to apply?
1. Student must be a US Citizen to receive Federal Financial Aid
* Permanent Residents/DACA students complete TASFA Application (see below)
2. Students AND parent will need to request FSA ID from the FAFSA website.
* if parent already has a child in college, there is no need to request another PIN for the parent
3. A copy of income tax return forms for student and/or parent will be needed to complete questions.
4. Log into website fafsa.ed.gov and complete the application.
5. Contact University Financial Aid office or check student's financial aid status on university website a couple weeks after submission.
6. Although students fill this out their senior year of high school, they will need to contact the college/university financial aid office if they have specific situations they need to discuss.
BEWARE OF SCAMS or INCORRECT WEBSITES. The application is FREE! If they ask you for money to complete the application, it is a scam!
What is TAFSA?
Texas Application for State Financial Aid
