Going to college is important, but paying for it can be tricky.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the government's way of determining how much money you should get for college. They base the results on how much money you have, how much your parents have, and any extraordinary expenses that would prohibit you from going to college. If an individual doesn't have a lot of money, their FAFSA will show this and the government is more inclined to provide money. However, students from high income families are more likely to receive smaller amounts of financial aid because it is a need-based system.
Instructions
1. Encourage siblings to attend college with you. For example, if you have a sister a year older than you, encourage her to join you in college. If two kids are in college, the government will give each of the kids more assistance. Wait a year, if you have a sibling who is a year behind.
2. Spend what money you have before you apply, if you're going to use it for college anyway. For example, if you know you're going to get a new laptop for college and a car, buy them before you file your FAFSA. That way, the government sees how much money you really have and can give you more money. If they see your bank is full, they'll give you less even if you're going to spend it later.
3. Submit the form as soon as possible. They begin accepting FAFSA forms on January 1st. If you submit it then, you're one of the first people in. Aid is given on a first-come, first-serves basis. Therefore, getting in on the first day means you're more likely to be successful.
4. Attempt to file as an independent student. However, you should talk to your parents about this -- because if you file independently -- your parents can't claim you as a dependant on their taxes. Therefore, it might be a smarter choice to file as a dependent, even if you get less student aid.
5. Talk to the financial aid office at your college. If you feel that you still can't afford college, they might be able to help you. Colleges have a certain yearly budget to give scholarships and grants. If you need more, the college might be able to help.
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