College Financial Aid

Applying for Financial Aid for College

FAFSA-on-the-web, is the preferred method to sumit an application. These applications are processed more quickly and with fewer mistakes. The website is FAFSA.ed.gov (or FAFSA.gov). Do not go to fafsa.com, a fee will be charged if you do. A FAFSA-on-the-web worksheet (FOTW) is available at FAFSA.ed.gov that can be used to gather all answers before going online to complete the actual form. The FAFSA is used to apply for federal student aid and to apply for most state and college aid.

Paper FAFSA - an applicant also has the option of completing a paper FAFSA instead of doing it online. A paper FAFSA can be obtained by calling 1-800-433-3243, or by downloading and printing one from the website at FAFSA.ed.gov.

FAFSA-on-the-Web worksheets are also available in the Guidance Office.

Students and at least one parent should secure a USDE Personal Identification Number (PIN) to use as an electronic signature when completing the FAFSA on-line. The website www.pin.ed.gov provides this service.

Types of College Loans

STAFFORD/DIRECT

• Variable low interest rate

• Subsidized - Interest starts after school

• Unsubsidized - Interest starts during school

• Repayment - starts 6 months after leaving school or attending less than half-time

PLUS LOANS

• For parents with variable low interest

• Repayment - starts within 60 days after last disbursement of loan

PERKINS

• Combined funds from government and school for extreme need

• Repayment - starts 9 months after leaving school or attending less than half-time

CONSOLIDATED LOANS

• Combine Federal loans with one vender

• Interest rate is the average of combined loans

• Lower monthly payments

PRIVATE/ALTERNATIVE LOANS

• For independent students and

• Parents of dependent students