Empower Students to Improve Communities
Financial Aid
The rising cost of a college education has become an increasing concern for many families. Applying for financial aid may feel like an overhelming process but there are resources that may help. The information outlined below serves as an introduction to the basic components of the financial aid process.
If finances are a concern, it may be a good idea to include an in-state public university in your list of schools as financial aid can be unpredictable. Please note that each college has their own individual process and set of deadlines when it comes to applying for aid. Each college has a financial aid resource office that can assist you with specific questions and most schools have a section of their website dedicated to this process.
Federal Application For Student Aid: www.fafsa.gov
Any student applying for financial aid is required to have a FAFSA form submitted on their behalf. For the class of 2016, the form cannot be submitted prior to January 1, 2016. Please note, the FAFSA is changing and for the Class of 2017 and beyond, the form will allow for earlier submission.
CSS/Financial Aid Profile: https://student.collegeboard.org/css-financial-aid-profile
The CSS Profile is required by many private colleges and universities. Please click the link above to access the form and list of participating schools. Please note that each school has their own deadline for CSS Profile submission.
Massachusetts Scholarships for Public Universities:
John and Abigail Adams Scholarship Program - Students receive notification of the award during fall of their senior year.
http://www.osfa.mass.edu/default.asp?page=adamsScholarship
Stanley Z. Koplik Certificate of Mastery Tuition Waiver Program - Students receive notification of eligibility for the award during the spring of junior year. Notification indicates an initial qualification as other requirements must be met (For example, AP scores, SAT scores, other significant achievements)
http://www.osfa.mass.edu/default.asp?page=koplikWaiver
Other Resources:
MEFA: Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority. We recommend attending a local MEFA workshop for detailed information regarding the financial aid process. Access the link below for additonal help and a searchable database of workshops in the area.
Tuition Break Program of New England:
The New England Regional Student Progam allows students to enroll at out-of-state public colleges and universities at a lower tuition rate when their desired major is not offered in their home state.
http://www.nebhe.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18&Itemid=54