LibGuides: College & Financial Aid Information: Financial Aid

Key Terms

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step in the financial aid process, determining the amount a student and their family will be expected to contribute to the total cost of postsecondary education.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is a term used in the college financial aid process to determine an applicant's eligibility for need-based federal student aid, as well as state and institutional (college) aid.

Websites

FAFSA
Free application for Federal Student Aid.
Federal School Code List
You can use the Federal School Code Search to search for colleges you're interested in including on your FAFSA.
Private Student Loan Information
The Federal Trade Commission developed this short guide on understanding private student loans, and includes information on how private loans differ from federal students loans as well as tips on spotting deceptive business practices.
G.I. Bill Information
Find more information about VA education and training programs and relevant application forms.
The Student Loan Report
Aggregates news, resources, and changes in the student loan borrowing process.

Recommended Books at the Library

Getting Financial Aid 2017 by The College Board
Call Number: 378.30973 GETT
ISBN: 9781457307751
Publication Date: 2016-07-05

Service Opportunities That Pay Off Student Debt

Peace Corps
The Peace Corps is a service opportunity for motivated changemakers to immerse themselves in a community abroad, working side by side with local leaders to tackle the most pressing challenges of our generation.
AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps engages more than 75,000 Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country.