Before You Apply For Federal Student Aid, Read This

But before you apply for such aid, let’s address some myths about the process so you can truly know what to expect.

Just hearing or seeing the phrase “federal student aid” can seem intimidating, which can keep you from applying for this essential form of funding. But as you’re about to see, applying for federal student aid is a straightforward process, and there’s nothing to fear.

Misconceptions About Federal Student Aid

There are several misconceptions about federal student aid that prevent people from applying for it. Why? Because they think the process is too complicated, or they think they don’t have what it takes to qualify. To keep you from thinking this way, let’s address those misconceptions now.

For starters, there is no age limit for federal student aid. In other words, you won’t be disqualified if you haven’t been to school in years. In fact, you could be any age (provided you’re old enough to go to college) and still qualify for federal student aid, so if you’re 40, 50, 60, 70, etc., don’t fret.

What’s another misconception about federal student aid? That the application process is expensive. Why is this false? Because applying for federal student aid is free. Fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and you’ll be good to go without paying a penny out of pocket.

Last but not least, you can qualify for federal student aid even if you have bad credit. Why? Because the government does not check your credit, and that’s even if you apply for student loans. What does it check, then? Your level of financial need, so if you make a limited income and can’t’ afford school on your own, federal student aid is right up your alley.

How To Get Federal Student Aid

Now that you see that federal student aid is not so scary, let’s discuss how you can get it.

1. Start gathering documents to show your eligibility, such as your Social Security number, ID, tax forms, bank statements, etc.
2. Complete and submit the FAFSA. Pay attention to submission deadlines so you can receive aid as quickly as possible.
3. Verify all of the information on your Student Aid Report. You’ll receive this after completing your FAFSA, and it will contain all of the information you filled out on the form. If you spot any mistakes, correct them to avoid delays or issues down the line.
4. Keep your eyes open for financial aid offers from schools you’re interested in. You could get grants (money that doesn’t have to be paid back), loans (money that must be paid back with interest), or work-study offers (jobs that let you earn cash for school).
5. Renew your FAFSA each year and note any changes to your financial or schooling situation. If you do not, you could lose funding.