Financial aid at Spelman?

I just got into Spelman College, I'm so excited! But now, I need help navigating the financial aid process. Can anyone who's been through it give me some advice?

Congratulations on your acceptance to Spelman College! The financial aid process can be a bit daunting, but here are some steps to help you through it:

1. Understand your financial aid offer: Review your financial aid award letter from Spelman. Make sure you understand the different types of aid offered, such as scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and loans. Look carefully at the terms and conditions attached to each component of your financial aid package.

2. Calculate your net cost: Subtract the total amount of your financial aid (excluding loans) from your total cost of attendance. This will give you an idea of how much you'll need to pay out of pocket or cover with loans. Make sure to keep in mind any additional expenses (like books, supplies, or transportation) that might not be covered by your financial aid.

3. Complete the FAFSA: If you haven't already, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for any federal financial aid that you might be eligible for, including federal grants, work-study, and loans. Spelman College's federal school code is 001589.

4. Research additional scholarships and grants: Look for more scholarships and grants from external sources. Many organizations offer scholarships based on factors such as academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or community service. You can use websites such as Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Cappex to search for scholarships tailored to your profile.

5. Ask Spelman about payment plans: If you need to pay some portion of your college expenses out of pocket, contact Spelman's Office of Student Accounts to ask about available payment plans. Spelman offers a monthly payment plan that can help you spread out your payments over the course of the academic year.

6. Appeal your financial aid award: If your financial situation has changed significantly since you submitted your FAFSA, or if you encounter extenuating circumstances, you can appeal your financial aid award. Write a letter to Spelman's Office of Financial Aid explaining your situation and providing any relevant documentation. They will review your case and determine if they can make adjustments to your award.

Throughout this process, don't hesitate to reach out to Spelman's Office of Financial Aid for guidance if you have any questions or concerns. Wishing you the best of luck with your financial aid journey—and enjoy your time at Spelman College!