After you have been accepted, your schools will send you an email or a letter in the mail with your financial aid package (usually sent out in February) that outlines the cost of attending and any merit/school-based scholarships that you will receive for the upcoming year. The schools sometimes leave some costs out, so use the spreadsheet to the left when adding it all up? Need help determining costs? Set up an appointment with your college adviser AND/OR watch these Khan Academy videos for a financial aid package overview.

Tip #10: Review your Financial Aid Package BEFORE ENROLLING to make sure you know what you're signing up for!

Something not right about your aid or do you need more? Contact your financial aid officers for assistance. You may be able to submit an appeal letter to your financial aid office to ensure that the school understands your situation. They may be able to make changes to your aid. Fill out this letter if you are unable to include financial information from a parent/guardian.

Your school may require you to also complete the CSS Profile. Check your school's requirements.