3 Important Tips for Filling Out a FAFSA Form

While filling out a FAFSA form can be time-consuming, the benefits are certainly worth it. The funds from this program can help offset the cost vocational school. Many students are eligible for this form of aid. Here are three important things to bear in mind when preparing to fill out this form.

1. Make Sure You Qualify

While FAFSA does provide funding for students who enroll at vocational schools like Tulsa Welding School, not all vocational schools and/or programs qualify for this type of aid. It is important to make sure the vocational school of your choice enables you to receive FAFSA aid, as your application makes you eligible for not only federal funding but also various types of state and institutional aid. Some private scholarship and grant providers may ask to see your FAFSA paperwork before determining funding eligibility. It is also important to read FAFSA’s general eligibility requirements before applying.

2. The Earlier the Better

The deadline for submitting a FAFSA application for students starting vocational training at a trade school varies depends on the particular school. It is a good idea to send an application as soon as possible. FAFSA has a limited amount of funds and disburses these on a “first come, first served” basis. What is more, those who submit early applications usually get more money than those who submit an application later in the year. So, in order to enhance your chances of receiving funding and possibly increasing your allocated amount, apply as early as possible.

3. Arrange Finances for Best Aid Package

Never lie or conceal information about your finances assuming you have too much to qualify. If you or your parents have a large amount of cash sitting in the bank, do something with it before submitting a FAFSA application. Some options include paying off credit card debt, prepaying a mortgage or putting extra money in a retirement account. A young person whose parents have saved up money for career training will want to keep the money in the parent’s account. FAFSA estimates that a young person should spend about 20% of the funds they have to their name on a college education (this rate is dramatically lower at 5.64% for parents funding their child’s education).

Don’t Hesitate to Apply

As the FAFSA website suggests, every single student should fill out a FAFSA form. There are no income limitations or age limitations and FAFSA only requires that students maintain average grades in order to continue to qualify for financial assistance. Filling out the form is not as hard as it may seem and can enable a person to qualify for other forms of aid. If you are concerned about not having the funding you need to complete the trade school program of your choice, you can always contact a career school representative at TWS for assistance.