Embedded Files
SMNW Financial Aid Presentation
Create a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID): Both the student and at least one parent need their own FSA ID to submit the FAFSA. The registration process is quick, taking just about 10-15 minutes. To avoid any last-minute rush and ensure your IDs are ready for use, please set them up at least four days before a FAFSA event. You can create your FSA ID at studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch.
English: How to Create an FSA ID
Spanish: Cómo Crear una FSA ID
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Commonly asked questions about Financial Aid
What kind of financial aid is available?
Financial aid and scholarships may come from the college itself, from the federal or state government, or from outside organizations, and can be based on grades, test scores, financial need, location, demographic background, athletic ability or other talent, or some combination of those and other factors.
Aid may be in the form of grants, loans, or work-study opportunities. For more detailed information on what these are and how they differ, see the Federal Student Aid website and the Financial Aid Web Resources website.
What is the FAFSA and do I need to submit it?
The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and is used to determine whether a student qualifies for federal student aid.
But it is also used in many other ways by universities and other organizations when awarding financial aid and scholarships, so you should complete and submit the FAFSA even if you think your family is above the income threshold.
Read Myths About Financial Aid for more information.
Download the MyStudentAid mobile app for quick and easy access to the FAFSA and other resources.
How can I get help completing the FAFSA?
The FAFSA online application includes an extensive Help section and they also provide help via email, phone, and online chat sessions. To get started, see this article on the Federal Student Aid website.
This video provides 7 Easy Steps to the FAFSA.
This article addresses the 7 Trickiest FAFSA Questions and How to Approach Them.
When we receive information about community events that offer in-person help with completing the FAFSA we will post them in the SME announcements and on SME social media.
How can I calculate how much college will cost and how much financial aid I can receive?
Costs vary widely and family income is only one factor used to determine financial aid eligibility. Schools use the “EFC” (Expected Family Contribution) to determine how much aid is awarded to each student.
You can the FAFSA Forecaster for a quick estimate of how much aid you might receive before you submit your FAFSA.
The College Scorecard is a great tool you can use to search for and compare schools, and determine how much it will cost to attend a specific college or university.
College Cost Calculator
It's a common misconception that everyone pays the "sticker price" for college. Use this calculator from Community America Credit Union to determine the cost you may pay based on your income level and location.For tips on how to reduce college expenses in a variety of ways, see this article on the Federal Student Aid website.
Another great source of information will be the Financial Aid office of the school where you’re applying.
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