Financial Aid Timeline for Prospective Students

The admission and financial aid team at 探花社区 can help you throughout the financial aid process when selecting a college or university to attend. Here are a few of the key milestones to aid in the process:

Sophomore Year of High School

Meet: Get to know your high school counselor to discuss your plans and goals for the future.

Explore: Research schools to develop a list from which to narrow your search.

Plan: The federal tax returns filed in the new year will be used to apply for financial aid.

Learn: Understand the FAFSA and learn more about Net Price Calculators to increase your financial aid eligibility. You should also explore test prep options.

Resources:

Junior Year of High School

Meet: Continue discussions with your parents and high school counselor to learn about the best higher education options for your area of interest.

Explore: Begin visiting schools on your “short list” to determine which are the best fit for you.

Plan: Create a file for applications, admission materials and correspondence for each school. Compile tax returns and investment data needed for filing FAFSA in the fall of your senior year.

Learn: Review scholarship options available to you. Resources include:
• Local clubs, organizations and businesses
• Online funds available from national companies and organizations
• Employers
• Merit-based scholarships

Resources:

and other available

Senior Year of High School

Meet: Remain in close contact with admission counselors for the schools to which you have applied.

Explore: Visit as many of your selected schools as possible to inform your decision.

Plan:
Fall:
• File your FAFSA on time – Starting in December

Winter:
• Review your Financial Submission Summary (FSS)

Spring:
• Analyze your financial aid offers
• Be aware of the May 1 enrollment deadline

Summer:
• Understand and apply for all of your loans
• Complete federal loan counseling
• Sign Master Promissory Note (MPN)
• Confirm work-study options and deadlines with your school

Learn: Complete federal loan counseling and understand the terms and payment plans for all of your financial commitments.