How can I apply for financial aid at Golden West?

In a bit of a stress-fest here. I've been accepted to Golden West, but need to sort out financial aid. Not sure how/where to start... anybody got some good advice?

First of all, breathe! It's understandable that financial aid can seem daunting, but there's a set process that can help you navigate this.

The primary step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is a government form that will determine what federal aid you're eligible for, based on factors like your family's income and your enrollment status. When filing your FAFSA, make sure you list Golden West as one of the schools you are interested in attending.

The FAFSA for the academic year typically becomes available on October 1 of the year before and the deadline is usually on June 30 of the academic year you need aid for. Remember, the earlier you apply, the better, as some types of aid are first-come, first-served.

Once you submit your FAFSA, Golden West's financial aid office will use this information to construct a package for you that might include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. They'll send you an aid offer, which you can choose to accept or decline (in part or in whole). Ensure you review each part of it closely.

Also, don’t forget to explore other sources of financial help like institutional scholarships offered by Golden West itself or private scholarships. You can usually find this information on the school's website or by contacting the financial aid office directly.

Golden West may also use the California Dream Act Application for undocumented students, so if you don't qualify for federal financial aid because of your immigration status, this could be a valuable resource for you.

Remember, it's normal to feel overwhelmed but you're not in this alone. The financial aid office at Golden West can be a great resource, so don't hesitate to reach out to them with your questions. Good luck!