Why should you file the FAFSA?
Many scholarship organizations will not consider you for
scholarship unless you have filed a FAFSA. Regardless of whether or
not you feel you will receive government funding, the FAFSA is a
valuable way to maximize your potential for aid.
The FAFSA will determine what federal aid you'll qualify for —
it's important to use any federal aid you receive. Always use
available grant and scholarship aid before applying for a loan.
When considering loan options, remember to use your federal aid
before applying for private loans. Federal loans usually have lower
fixed interest rates and more flexible repayment options than
private loans. For more information, visit the US Department of
Education's Federal Aid First website.
Financial Aid is available to almost everyone. Last year, about
94% of the freshmen class received some form of financial aid.
Financial Aid packages vary from person to person, but the most
common types of programs are grants, scholarships, federal
work-study, and student loans.
Getting
Started
Step 1:
FAFSA 4caster:
This
tool allows you to estimate your Expected Family Contribution
number, or EFC. Your EFC is what determines the types and award
amounts that you are eligible to receive. We also use your EFC
number to calculate MSMC need-based grants and scholarships. This
is an estimating tool only. www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov
Step 2:
FAFSA Website
This is
the official application website. A FAFSA is required to award you
federal and institutional need-based aid.
Fill out the FAFSA form online:
www.fafsa.ed.gov
Our FAFSA priority deadline for freshmen is February 14, regular
deadline is March 1.
Our Title IV School Code: 002778
Our NYS TAP Code: 2110
You may complete your FAFSA anytime after January 1, 2012 for
fall consideration. February 14, 2012 is our date of first
priority freshmen awarding for most programs. Returning students
should file the Renewal FAFSA no later than April 15. www.fafsa.ed.gov
Step 3: State Grant Website
At the
end of your FAFSA application, you'll see a link to your state
grant website. If you are a New York State resident, clicking on
the link will bring you to the New York State Higher Education
Services website, where you can complete your Tuition Assistance
Program application for a state grant. www.hesc.org
You'll get an e-mail from the US
Department of Education about 72 hours after you submit the
FAFSA.
If
your comments page indicates that you were selected for
verification (and at least 30% of all students are selected), you
can download your verification worksheets here:
Dependent Student
Verification Worksheet
Independent Student
Verification Worksheet
Contact Financial Aid:finaid@msmc.edu
Phone: 845-569-3194
Fax: 845-569-3302