Hi! I'm a junior and I'm starting to think about the financial aspect of college. Do I need to apply for financial aid before submitting college applications, or can I do it afterwards? I'm a bit confused about the timeline. Thanks in advance!
Hello! It's great that you're starting to think about the financial aspect of college early on. In general, you do not need to apply for financial aid before submitting your college applications. The financial aid process typically happens after you submit your college applications and before you receive your acceptance letters. You should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after October 1 as possible during your senior year. This will help determine your eligibility for federal financial aid. In addition, some colleges may require the CSS Profile, which is another financial aid application. It's important to check the financial aid deadlines for each college you're applying to, as they may vary. Make sure to submit all required documents by their deadlines to ensure you don't miss out on any financial aid opportunities. Good luck with your college applications and financial aid process!
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