Learning Center
Student assistance library
Short references you can return to while comparing options. Use them to understand terms and prepare before contacting a school or program.
Adult learning resources
Returning learners can look at community college programs, workforce training resources in their state, and adult education centers. Each sets its own requirements.
Understanding financial aid requirements
Requirements often include enrollment status, satisfactory academic progress and residency. Your school's financial aid office is the authority on what applies to you.
Financial aid glossary
- Cost of Attendance
- A school's estimate of tuition, fees, housing, books, transportation and other costs for one year.
- FAFSA
- The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, the form used by federal programs and many states and schools.
- Student Aid Index (SAI)
- A number calculated from FAFSA information that schools use when determining need-based aid.
- Grant
- Aid that generally does not need to be repaid, provided you meet the program's conditions.
- Scholarship
- An award from a school or organization, often based on merit, background, field of study or community involvement.
- Award Letter
- A school's written summary of the aid it is offering. Compare letters by looking at grants separately from loans.
Preparation checklist
- Gather recent tax information and household details before starting the FAFSA.
- List every school you are considering and note each financial aid deadline.
- Check your state's higher education agency website for resident programs.
- Ask each financial aid office which institutional grants they offer.
- Keep a simple log of scholarship deadlines, requirements and submitted materials.
- Never pay a fee to receive a grant or a list of guaranteed scholarships.