Can I afford college?

This is probably the question that we get the most from students that join our sites - from every way of life and income level. The answer is yes - if you start early and stay on top of forms and deadlines. Our experts at FindTuition have pulled together all the information you will need to pay for college.

If you need financial help to go to college, the most important part of the process is to apply for federal aid by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The FAFSA helps determine your eligibility for federal grants and loans. Don't skip the FAFSA because you think your parents make too much money. Most colleges base your entire financial aid package, including state awards and school-specific grants and scholarships, on your FAFSA.

Filing the FAFSA is free, and can be done online once you and your family have your taxes done (as soon after January 1 as possible) in your senior year. File as early as you can - federal aid is limited. And don't forget that you have to re-file the FAFSA every year you apply for financial aid - it is not a one-time deal. The FAFSA form can be found online through the Federal government here.

Do not fall for any companies that say they can get you more money if you pay a small fee. There are no tricks to completing the FAFSA, just fill it out and be as accurate as possible. If you need help, the government can answer all your frequently asked questions about the FAFSA online. Also, check to see if there's a College Goal Sunday event in your area - this non-profit group hosts sessions where you and your parents can come in and get free help on filling out the FAFSA

Pay attention to what your college requires for their financial aid application. For example, some colleges, especially private universities, may also require the financial aid PROFILE form. This assists the college in better understanding who needs financial aid the most

Another important piece of the financial aid pie is scholarships. It is important that you start early - some people say you should start as early as junior year. Often scholarships have deadlines and you don't want to miss out on any free money. Finding a scholarship and filling out the forms may seem like a hassle, but it is free money. Think of it this way, if you spend 20 hours filling out forms and receive a $1000 scholarship you just made $50 an hour! There are millions of scholarships out there for everyone; you just have to look for them. A great place to start is right here at FindTuition.com and our sister website CareersandColleges.com.

Once you receive your financial aid report from your college and hear back from all the scholarship providers, you will know how much money you have available. While's it's great to make it through school without any loans, the reality is more and more students need loans to attend college. You can search for and apply for your student loans on FindTuition.com. Make sure you do your research and get the best rate you can!

This is just an introduction to the financial aid process. We encourage that you poke around our sites to learn more. Your high school will also have lots of information about the financial aid process. Make sure you check back soon to learn more tips about the financial aid process.

This blog was written by Valerie Anderson

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