How to Apply for Financial Aid For College in 5 Easy Steps

Apply for financial aid for college to ensure that you'll have the necessary funds to complete your degree. The first step is to declare your eligibility. Federal guaranteed student loans are available, but you have to apply for financial aid before you can access them. Follow these steps to apply for aid.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Point your browser to the Department of Education Free Application for Federal Student Aid site. In order to be eligible for loans and grants you'll need to complete this application. If eligible, you'll receive your financial aid package by mail. The quicker you complete the application process, the quicker you'll receive your loans from your school's financial aid office.

2. Use the online worksheets to determine your eligibility in order to apply for financial aid for college. The Dependency Status worksheet will tell you how much aid you can get.

3. Locate your chosen school's code. You'll need the codes so the university you've applied to can receive your information.

4. Apply for the Personal Identification Number (PIN) at the Federal Student Aid website. This will allow you to electronically sign your application. This greatly streamlines the process and it lets you check your records at a later date.

5. Be sure you apply for financial aid in a timely manner. Federal deadlines are July 1st to June 30th of the following year.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you have received eligibility you can apply for federal student loans.