Student Page



Financial Aid for Students

This Information Web page, prepared by the Congressional Research Service for Members of Congress, guides students through the process of locating and applying for financial aid. [March 2006]

0.The basics: getting started

0.Student aid and where it comes from

0.Targeted aid for specific groups

0.Repaying your loans

The basics: getting started

TOP

Start gathering information early.

Free information is readily available from:
High school counselors
College and career school financial aid offices (where you plan to attend)
Local and college libraries
U.S. Department of Education Web page
Other Internet sites (search terms student financial aid OR assistance)

Ask questions: counselors may know if you have exceptional circumstances that affect your eligibility.

Be organized: use calendars to keep on track.

Keep copies of all forms and correspondence: you must reapply for aid each year.

Parents of students: save money long before your child attends college. 
FinAid: for Parents
College Savings Plan Network (state "Section 529" plans)
Tax incentives for higher education expenses

Good overviews: 
Cash for College
FinAid: The Smart Student Guide to Financial Aid
Financial Aid: You Can Afford It
Looking for Student Aid 
Mapping Your Future 
Paying for College

http://www.crs.gov/reference/general/grants/financialaid.html

U.S. Department of Education

http://www.ed.gov/index.jhtml

Florida Department of Education

http://www.fldoe.org/

 

 

The official gateway to the United States federal government for students.

http://www.students.gov/STUGOVWebApp/Public

 

 

Free Application for Federal Student Aid

http://www.house.gov/htbin/leave_site?ln_url=http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/