Do you need help figuring out financial aid? Help is available through college financial aid offices. They administer federal and state funds, as well as funds from the college and private donors.

Understanding Financial Aid

Getting started

The financial aid office will consider your financial need and package aid around it, determining eligibility for assistance from federal, state, and college sources.

To determine if and how much financial aid you may qualify for, you will need to complete a financial need analysis form called a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

You can obtain a FAFSA from several places:

  • Guidance counselors
  • U.S. Department of Education - 1.800.433.3243
  • The Internet – www.ed.gov

The information is analyzed to determine your financial need. A copy of the analysis is sent to you and the college you plan to attend.

Helpful Tips

It helps to view your scholarship search like a treasure hunt – there is money at the end, but you have to dig around for it. Here are some helpful tips to help you with your search:

  • Begin your search in your junior year
  • Set up an appointment with your guidance counselor
  • Take SAT and ACT tests early
  • Focus on colleges or universities that meet your personal and educational goals
  • Seek out departmental or athletic scholarships available through the colleges
  • Ask if your parent’s employers provide scholarship assistance
  • Inquire about student loans or work-study programs
  • www.finaid.org
  • www.collegeboard.org
  • FAFSA
  • www.ed.gov
  • www.salliemae.com

Find a scholarship that's right for you.

Browse Scholarships