Financial Aid Resources

04/09/19 ·CompEAP


Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) - www.fafsa.ed.gov

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is the first step in the financial aid process. It is an application for federal student financial aid, such as the Pell Grant, student loans and college work-study. The majority of schools use FAFSA information to award their financial aid. Apply as early as possible, as school deadlines vary and are often early – January or February for fall semester admission is typical. An application can be found at the website listed above.

Federal Student Aid (FSA) - www.studentaid.ed.gov

The Federal Student Aid (FSA) website is an excellent source for information from the U.S. Department of Education on preparing for and funding education beyond high school. Learn more about the FSA programs (grants, work-study, Stafford loans, Plus loans), how to apply for financial aid, how to maintain financial aid while attending school, and the information on how to repay loans. The website also provides information and advice on choosing a school and applying for admission.

National Association of Financial Aid Administrators - www.nasfaa.org/

The National Association of Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) is an association of over 3,000 colleges, universities, career schools, and others with an interest in student financial aid. They have a number of resources for financial aid guidance, including tips on how to get scholarships, learning more about credit, tips for completing the FAFSA, and information on tax credits. 

U.S. Department of Education - www.ed.gov/finaid/landing.jhtml

The U.S. Department of Education website is a valuable resource for finding information about financial aid. Along with instructions on applying for aid, there are a number of valuable links to financial aid resources labeled editor’s picks. 

Helpful Hints

  • The best place to get information about federal, state, school and other sources of student financial aid is the financial aid office at the school your child plans to attend.
  • Another excellent resource for information is your child’s high school counselor’s office. Encourage your child to take the time to meet with your counselor to discuss all of their options, including community scholarships that may be available.
  • Information about other nonfederal assistance may be available from foundations, community organizations, and civic groups, as well as organizations related to your field of interest, such as the American Medical Association or American Bar Association. 
  • Check with your employers to see if they award scholarships or have tuition payment plans.