Financing College Now and in the Future Presented Money Smart Week April 2008

Myths Students can borrow in loans all the money they need for college Students can be considered independent just by not living at home. If you don’t qualify for a scholarship it doesn’t pay to try Savings plans and budgeting for college will not help.

Truths Students are limited on their government loans Students becoming independent must meet FAFSA criteria or have an extreme circumstance From the time you decide on college you need to prepare for scholarship searches no matter what age, race or family income. Upromise, 529 plan are just some of the ways to start savings for college.

Key Factors in Financing College Seek Information: Websites are a great source. Prior to the school year of attending complete your FAFSA Make sure to complete it prior to March 1 st Scholarship search starting a year before you attend and continue till you stop going to college.

Where to find information College websites particularly in their financial aid section College catalogs Illinois Student Assistance Commision Website: Other site suggested through the college websites.

FAFSA This is the Federal Application for financial aid and it is FREE FAFSA does not offer to fund a students educations it only is a tool to evaluate your need for help. The EFC estimate family contribution is just a benchmark not a bill or the amount the family may need to pay.

FAFSA is a picture of your previous years financial picture and is used to determine your need. If you have lost this income you should check with your financial aid advisor about the situation. Most students who do not pay out right their college bill need financial aid and generally that means a student loan and a parent plus loan.

Scholarships Start a student portfolio in middle school. Activities, organizations, and volunteerism. Start a savings plan Research what your colleges offer in scholarships Research what kinds of scholarships are offered in your major.

Where to Start Check out websites Get involved in looking for funds Plan carefully your choice of college can you afford it? Will it give you the educations your want? Know what you want from college. Always keep working on funding college

Thank-You This presentation is part a project for the graduate class CEI 432