Embedded Files
The FAFSA is the application you will use to apply for federal student aid programs offered by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free and gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to help pay for college or technical school. Federal student aid covers such expenses as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and other related expenses, such as a computer and dependent care. In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA data to determine your eligibility for state aid and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.
Senior Night Financial Aid Presentation Click Here
Missouri Department of Higher Ed. launched This Website to help families with the FAFSA
Step 1: Creating an FSA ID
You must have the FSA ID before you begin filling out your FAFSA. Each student needs an FSA ID. One parent needs an FSA ID, both will need an FSA ID if married parents filed separately.
Click here to create an FSA ID- You will need the following:
Social Security number
Full name (as it appears on your birth certificate)
Date of birth
Contact information (physical address, phone number, and email address)
Frequently asked questions about FSA ID creation
Step 2: Gather Information
Information needed for your FAFSA application (for Class of 2025 seniors):
Student and Parent social security numbers
Student and Parent 2024 federal income tax returns and W-2s
Student and Parent most recent bank statement and records of investments Records of untaxed income (if applicable)
Student and Parent FSA ID's
Step 3: Complete the FAFSA
Complete the 2026-2027 FAFSA if you are going to start college classes in the Fall of 2026
Complete the 2025-2026 FAFSA if you are going to start college classes in the Summer of 2026
Below is a sample award letter. Please contact the counseling center with any questions.
Types of Financial Aid
Scholarships - Free money students must apply for to pay for school, typically based on academics and community involvement. Be sure to check the SHS Scholarship website, your College/University/Trade School financial aid page, and with organizations your family participates in (Elks, Lions, Church, etc).
Grants - Grants are free money given to students who demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA
Loans - Loans are funded by governments or private lenders and MUST be paid back. Keep in mind that college freshmen who are considered dependent (most students straight out of high school), receive a MAXIMUM $5500 loans a year. Any balance beyond that will need to be covered in a payment plan or a Parent PLUS Loan.
Work Study - Program offers flexible part-time jobs around student schedules, usually on campus. Funding comes from the information from the FAFSA and some students may not be eligible. Work study jobs can pay directly to the student like a regular job and it is the responsibility of the student to pay their tuition with their check if they choose to.
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