How to Apply for Financial Aid

Know the Deadlines

Each college has its own financial aid deadline. Find out each college's required applications and deadlines, located on each school's financial aid webpage.
If you're applying to a school through Early Action or Early Decision, those applications will likely be due in the fall.

Give yourself plenty of time to complete the applications, as you may have questions throughout the process.
If the student's parents are divorced or separated, find out who needs to fill out the applications.
Before starting the FAFSA, both the student and the parent(s) must set up an FSA ID.
If a college requires the CSS Profile^®, a separate application from the FAFSA, complete it online here. If you're not sure if a college required the CSS Profile, check with the financial aid office or view the list of schools here.
If a college requests additional information or documentation, send it immediately.

Create a family email address so that everyone can keep track of correspondence sent by the FAFSA, colleges, and others.
Keep all passwords safe and in one place.
Keep copies of everything you receive and are asked to submit to the financial aid office.

Attend a FAFSA Day event to receive free help completing the FAFSA.
Communicate any special circumstances that affect your family's financial situation by writing to the financial aid office at each school on your list.
Contact our College Planning Team or request a one-on-one appointment for assistance completing your forms.