(Free Application for Federal Student Aid) How to get free money, and other ways to pay for college FAFSA ...grants, loans, work study, and scholarships (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

Financial Aid for college comes from 4 main sources: Federal Government (58% of federal aid is in the form of loans for students and parents). State Government College and Universities Private organizations/foundations

Filling out the FAFSA helps you access federal grants and loans to pay tuition and expenses while you’re in college.

GRANTS Grants are free money. Students fill out an online form (the FAFSA) to get federal grant awards each year they are enrolled in college. The state and federal funds are “granted” to fund the student’s college education, according to the family’s need. Why do you think our federal government gives away money to fund higher education?

LOANS Loans are given by the federal government to students and their families. Loans offered through the FAFSA are frequently given at lower rates than a bank or private lender would give. This means when you graduate you’ll owe less money. yes, with loans you pay it all back after you graduate. with interest.

Another way to see financial aid: Review these as a class to make sure everyone understands the differences.

Why do you think the FAFSA requires your family’s tax information?

The point is, no matter what your situation is, there is money for everyone to go to college if they choose to go. This includes DACA and undocumented students; students from families without extra cash; and students with families of their own. Start with the FAFSA. you got this!

So how do you get started on the FAFSA? Online: Get your FAFSA ID number from fafsa.ed.gov* Gather parent/guardian information Complete out your application online * Alert: The url is: .GOV (not .com)

Click here: 12 Common FAFSA Mistakes This is a great website to discuss together in Advisory. Read through the 12 common mistakes and make sure you understand what they mean. Click here: 12 Common FAFSA Mistakes

If you need help, look for... *Online tutorials (Khan Academy, YouTube, etc) *FAFSA website video tutorials and FAQ’s *Ms Perez in Branham’s College & Career Center *Your older siblings, teachers, parents, and other adults

NOTE! There are tons of scholarships available for students from every background and ability. Start by thinking of what groups you and your parents belong to. This could be: military, professional associations, extenuating circumstances having to do with health or family challenges, foster families, LGBTI families, immigration status, serious engagement with sports, arts, and hobbies, local community groups, labor unions, religious groups, political causes, merit/honor societies, fraternities and sororities…

There are also application fee waivers for low income students applying to college. You can begin this process by getting SAT and AP fee waivers. Once you get those, certain college applications will also be free. Read up online and check in with Ms Perez, Branham’s College and Career Counselor to get more details.