Filling out financial aid forms can seem like an overwhelming task. Yet, if you plan well, everything will go smoothly. Filling out your forms in a timely manner will increase the likelihood that you will receive grants (like a scholarship, grants do not need to be repaid) and loans (which must be repaid).

If you are under 25, you will need your parents to fill out a portion of the form. To prepare yourself for getting your forms in on time, include the time it will take your parents to gather the paperwork they need and fill out their portion of the form. Then add the time you expect to spend gathering information and filling out your portion of the form.

You will need your tax information for the current year, and although tax forms aren't due until April 15th, you can turn in your financial aid form as early as January 1st. You can fill in your expected tax information using the tax booklet and your approximated income to come up with the numbers.

Above all, don't procrastinate! Financial aid is distributed on a first come, first served basis, so use your winter break to fill out your forms and get them sent in.

FAFSA
College Scholarships
Fast Web
The Student Guide
CollegeNet
Student Aid on the Web