From the Advisor's Desk
Questions to Ask a Financial Aid Counselor
In the search for financial aid, most students skip a crucial step. Colleges and universities themselves often offer students opportunities for financial aid. Students and families can think of levels of financial aid as tiers, with FAFSA (federal aid) at the top. For Florida students, Bright Futures (state aid) comes next. After that, colleges and universities should be asked about their assistance. Finally, local scholarships and scholarship search sites should be comsidered.
What questions shoud you ask a college or univerity financial aid counselor?
What is the full cost of attendance for a student attending your college/university?
What additional aid opportunities does the college/university offer to incoming freshman? When are the deadlines?
Are students required to reapply to keep a scholarship, or does it automatically renew each year?
For renewable scholarships, what requirements must be met each year to keep the scholarship?
Do outside scholarships impact a student's aid package from your institution?
Is there an appeals process if the aid package does not meet my demonstrated needs?
Are there employment opportunities available to students on your campus?
How is financial aid distributed from your college/university?
What is the average amount of debt students graduate with from your college/university?
Do you have any other resources you recommend for securing additional financial aid?
