Hi all, I'm a high school junior and I'm a bit worried about affording college. When should I start looking into financial aid options? Are there any resources you'd recommend? Thanks in advance!
Hello! It's great that you're thinking about financial aid early on. It's never too early to start researching scholarships and grants, as some deadlines might be in your junior year or even earlier. Generally, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens on October 1st each year, and you should complete it as soon as possible in your senior year to maximize your eligibility for aid. Some colleges may also require the CSS Profile for additional financial aid. I'd recommend exploring websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and your high school's counseling office for scholarship opportunities. Additionally, check out the Federal Student Aid website (studentaid.gov) for all the information on federal aid programs. Don't forget to consider work-study programs and part-time jobs to help cover costs. Best of luck with your college journey!
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