The key resource for both scholarships and financial aid is the college (or university or technical school) you hope to attend. Contact a college admissions counselor or financial aid counselor at your school(s) of interest for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
FINANCIAL AID
Financial aid typically comes in the form of grants (free money) or loans (money that will eventually need to be paid back).
Key to being eligible for financial aid is filling out the Free Application for Student Aid, more commonly known as FAFSA. The FAFSA cannot be filled out until January/February of a student's senior year -- this is because tax information (from both the parent and the student) is required. The information contained in this application is used to calculate your need for financial aid. Paper worksheets are available, though the final application will be submitted online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Prior to filling out FAFSA, both parent(s) and student need to apply for a PIN # to aid in the application process. This can be done in the fall of the senior year at www.pin.ed.gov.
For more information on how to pay for college, visit
FINANCIAL AID FOR UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS
Opportunities for financial aid are also available to undocumented students.
FinAid -- The Smart Student Guide to Financial Aide has a section to help answer questions undocumented students may have as they search for financial support for college. Visit www.finaid.org/otheraid/undocumented.phtml
Another resource is the Hispanic Scholarship Fund: www.hsf.net
| 