Too Early for Financial Aid Applications?
Dear Betsy.
I heard that I should apply for my daughter’s financial aid now but isn’t it a little early? She hasn’t even heard back from any of her schools yet.
Sincerely,
Lauren,
Dear Lauren.
Believe it or not the end of January is exactly when you should begin the financial aid process. The 1st step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which you can complete online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Make sure to have your W-2’s and other financial information handy before you get started. If you apply online, the results of the FAFSA should get to you and the schools in approximately 6 weeks. If you prefer the paper form, your local library or your daughter’s guidance counselor should be able to provide you with the form and instructions.
One section of the form asks for which schools you want the results sent to. You should list all the schools your daughter is seriously considering as they will need these results to put together her potential financial aid package which in turn will help you in your ultimate decision of which school your daughter might attend. Don’t hesitate to write me if you have questions as you go through the process!
Regards,
Betsy
