- Apply for aid. Fill out scholarships and applications for financial aid. For each college on your list, make sure you complete all applications for scholarships and financial aid.
Helpful websites: GenTX Way to Pay
- Start the FAFSA process. Begin filling out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at fafsa.gov.
Helpful websites: FAFSA, GenTX Way to Pay
- Submit your FAFSA. Complete and submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1 (ideally after your parents’ tax information has been imported by the IRS). The sooner you submit the FAFSA, the better your chances are for getting a good financial aid package.
Helpful websites: GenTX Way to Pay
- Apply for scholarships and grants. Fill out as many scholarship applications as possible, and submit them by their required deadlines.
Helpful websites: Find Scholarships, Fastweb, Cappex, Scholarships.com
- Compare financial aid letters. Review and compare financial aid award letters with your counselor or college adviser.
- Talk to your financial aid office. Talk with a financial aid counselor at your school to learn how you can use your college savings and scholarships to reduce your college loan amounts.
Helpful websites: Understand Borrowing Money for College, GenTX Way to Pay