Federal financial aid begins with the FAFSA
If you require financial assistance, your first step is to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online as soon as possible after October 1 of the year before you plan to enroll. FAFSA evaluates eligibility for need-based aid, including federal loans, and gives students access to need-based grants, scholarships, loans and work-study. The FAFSA website will help you determine whether you are a dependent or independent student, and other important criteria for aid.