Financial Aid

Application Process

The first step in the financial aid process—whether you are seeking federal, state, or institutional aid—is to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education must receive this annual application by March 10 in order for you to be considered for aid each academic year. Applications received by March 1 receive priority consideration. Although you may file the FAFSA after March 1, fund availability is considerably reduced for “late applicants.” After the application has been processed, the U.S. Department of Education will send you a Student Aid Report (SAR). The information provided on the SAR will allow the college financial aid office to award loans, grants, scholarships, and employment opportunities. The types and amount of financial aid available will vary by institution.