A question we get quite often is if students need to apply to their list of colleges prior to completing the FAFSA form. Often, there is a lot of confusion about this. I hope this article helps to clear up those confusions!
#1- Students do NOT need to apply to their list of colleges prior to filling the FAFSA form. It does not matter if you apply to your list of colleges and then file the FAFSA form, or if you file the FAFSA form and then apply to your list of colleges. The most important thing to remember is if you want to receive an award package back from the college, you need to make sure to get your college applications AND FAFSA form submitted in order for the college to process your award package.
#2- Your financial aid package details out the cost of school for you to attend the colleges you list on your FAFSA form. Financial aid packages can come in all sorts of different formats. They can sometimes be confusing to read. At ICAN, we do help students and families go over award packages once students start to receive those from the colleges. Generally, colleges start processing the award packages around the new year.
At ICAN, we know this process can be overwhelming and confusing. We are here to help you succeed! Never hesitate to set-up an appointment with us or call us for questions. Paying for your education can be a daunting process and we are here to help!
To schedule visit www.icansucceed.org/apt.
Meghan - ICAN Hiawatha Center
