Resources/Links

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is the beginning point for all federal financial aid. In order to be considered for work-study, grants and federal student loans, you must submit a FAFSA. This includes Federal Stafford and Federal PLUS loans.

The FAFSA will examine your family's financial situation and evaluate your eligibility for student financial aid as based upon the U.S. Department of Education guidelines. A number of factors are taken into consideration such as both parent and student income, number of family members in the household, net assets and family expenses.

Almost all families are eligible for some type of financial aid. Even if you think that you earn too much or you are not aware of your options, you may be eligible. It is also important to keep in mind that some types of aid, including the Stafford and PLUS loans are available to all students regardless of need level. In order to be considered for that assistance; however, you must complete the FAFSA.

Your chances of receiving assistance can be increased if you submit your FAFSA as quickly after January 1 as is possible. This is because funding for need based assistance is limited and most such awards are handled on a first come, first serve basis. The earlier you file, the greater your chances of receiving assistance will be.

You can complete the FAFSA on the Web at www.FAFSA.ed.gov or submit a FAFSA through your high school or college Financial Aid Office.

Keep in mind the application process can take from two to six weeks.

Sallie Mae

Sallie Mae is the nation's leading provider of student loans. Access a number of tools and resources, including the ability to check on the status of your loan application, e-sign a loan or co-sign a loan at www.salliemae.com