Financial Aid?

[LOC4ME]

Anyone not fill out the FAFSA until later in the year?

For example not filled out until May or June to start classes in July or August.

I see that a lot of colleges are saying that March is either a deadline or priority for FA. Does this apply for EC or TESC since the classes start all year round? Were you able to still get a full package if you applied later? TIA

[bricabrac]

Hi LOC4ME,

The March deadline is for mainstream students.

I last used Fin Aid with TESC in 2009. I completed my FAFSA in May for August start. At the time they were a bit slow, but the process has gotten better. Still, if this is your first application I would allow a minimum of 4-6 weeks for processing your award. The Stafford loans are now administered by Direct Loans and processing of the loans is streamlined. All the forms and links are now easily accessible through the FAFSA website.

You are actually on time for a full year award including Pell grants if you qualify. Be sure to choose the 2011-2012 school year when filing your application because the 2010-1011 application is also still available for the summer sessions.

Here's the link for TESC scholarships Thomas Edison State College | Scholarships you still have plenty of time to apply.

[ronaldemail1]

Is there any special instructions on how to fill out the form.
I am a new resident, is it difficult to do it?

[bricabrac]

Is there any special instructions on how to fill out the form.
I am a new resident, is it difficult to do it?

Not sure what you mean by new resident...do you mean just moved to a new state or the US?

*Edit to add: I know for certain scholarships you need to establish residency (usually a year) but I always thought that was for full scholarships. Not sure if it also applies to stafford loans and/or pell/state grants. Of course you need to discuss with your schools financial aid office regarding their procedure.

It is so easy. Just have your tax return handy. Home - FAFSA on the Web-Federal Student Aid
While filling out the form it tells you what line on your return to get the requested info. Just be sure you know which return you filed before beginning. There is an option where you can submit a FAFSA if you have not filed a return, but I don't know how that works. Maybe someone else can answer?

If you run into any problems you can save the application and go back later. I always end up asking my accountant about the education credit.