The Financial Aid Process is Right Around the Corner

Over the thanksgiving break the guidance office received quite a few common applications or requests for transcripts to be sent.  This will most likely be the last large push for college applications.  We do have students finishing up their college applications into the New Year, but most students are moving onto the financial aid process.  Since the financial aid process can be so overwhelming, the guidance office has a few meetings arranged to help clear up the confusion.  I will also list some important information and websites for you to view.   

Important Dates:

PHEAA Financial Aid Night

A representative from PHEAA (PA Higher Education Assistance Agency) will be at the high school to present on the financial aid process.  She is very knowledgeable on the FAFSA form and federal and state aid.  This presentation will take place in the high school auditorium on January 29th, 2014 at 6pm. 

Even if you have heard this presentation before or have filed the FAFSA for other children, it would be good to attend for updates and changes in the process. 

Student Presentation

The guidance counselors are planning a student presentation during tutorial for early January.  This presentation will focus on responsible borrowing and the differences between loans, grants, and scholarships.   A video will also be shown showcasing Fairview High School teachers and their experiences with student loan debt.  We hope this presentation will help students make appropriate financial choices when choosing a college. 

Financial Aid Overview

• In order to qualify for federal, state, and need based institutional aid students need to file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) every year they are enrolled in college. 
• The FAFSA collects household and financial information and determines an expected family contribution (EFC).   An EFC is the result of the federal calculation based on family earnings, assets, number of students in college, and size of family as reported on the FAFSA.  The EFC is a suggestion on the amount of money a family can pay for college expenses.  This number ranges from 0-99,999. 
• You can send your FAFSA to up to 10 colleges.  All of the colleges that receive your FAFSA will mail you a financial aid award listing all federal aid, state aid, grants, scholarships, work study and loans available to your family. 

Helpful Websites

PHEAA (State Aid)

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

FAFSA 4Caster

My Smart Borrowing

Education Planner