How many years does financial aid typically cover?

Hey everyone, I've been doing some research into financial aid, and I'm a little lost. Can someone clarify for me whether financial aid packages typically cover all four years of college, or if they can vary in length? Also, are there any specific things I should know about how to maintain my financial aid throughout my time in college?

Hi there! Financial aid packages are generally designed to cover all four years of an undergraduate education. However, it's important to know that the amount and types of aid can change each year based on factors like your family's financial situation, your academic performance, and availability of funds from the college or university.

To maintain eligibility, make sure to complete the FAFSA and any required supplemental financial aid applications every year. Also, stay aware of your school's Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements, as meeting these standards is typically necessary to keep your aid.

Scholarships, especially those awarded by external organizations, might have unique renewal criteria. Keep track of deadlines and any other requirements for these scholarships to ensure continued funding. If you receive a merit-based scholarship from your college, maintaining a certain GPA or meeting other conditions might be necessary.

For more helpful information on financial aid, I recommend checking out this CollegeVine blog post: 'The Ultimate Guide to Filling Out the FAFSA'. It provides a thorough overview of the FAFSA process, which plays a crucial role in determining your financial aid package. Good luck!