Financial aid may be available to help make education possible. Financial aid offices can help students apply for grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.They also provide information on eligibility requirements, student rights and responsibilities in receiving aid, requirements for maintaining aid, planning a budget, and other financial concerns.
Student expenses include estimates of all school and basic college living expenses for the academic year (fall, winter, and spring quarters). Information on student budgets can be found in the Consumer Information brochure available at each campus.
Using information provided on financial aid forms, a determination is made of the amount a student is expected to contribute toward his or her expenses for the academic year. The amount a student can pay is subtracted from the cost of attendance to determine the amount of aid.
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Apply at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Be certain to complete the application according to instructions. Students may also pick up a paper application packet from the Financial Aid Office.
When to Apply All application documents must be accurately completed and delivered to the Financial Aid Office by the published deadline date. For exact dates see the "Deadline" section of the Consumer Information brochure available at each campus. To apply, students should first file their tax returns and then begin the application process at least three months before the quarter begins. It is recommended that the student begin this process as soon as possible. MORE >
Students need to apply only once each school year, but they must reapply every year of attendance. Applications are processed in the order received. Late applicants must plan to pay for their own tuition by the tuition deadline and purchase their own books so that they are ready to begin class on the first day of school. Aid will be disbursed later in the quarter to eligible, late-aid applicants. MORE >
Notification Students are mailed a financial aid notification letter indicating award types and amount per quarter. It is important to read the award notice carefully, sign and return it to the Financial Aid Office. (South does not require students to complete this step.) Students are also notified by letter if they are ineligible for financial aid. MORE >