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How to Apply?
To apply for federal financial aid (grants, student employment and loans) and the Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant Program, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after January 1 of each year. (High school seniors need to apply as soon as possible after January 1 during their senior year of high school). The FAFSA can be completed either:

• Online (FAFSA on the Web). The FAFSA is available online, and families are encouraged to use this method of application (step-by-step instructions are provided on this site). FAFSA on the Web can be accessed at www.fafsa.ed.gov or www.studentaid.ed.gov.

OR

• Paper. Families can obtain a paper copy of the FAFSA directly from any student financial aid office, most public libraries, the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 800.4.FED.AID or by calling an Oklahoma expert at 866.443.7420 or 405.234.4239 in Oklahoma City.

All of this information is available free of charge. Remember the first "F" in FAFSA stands for "Free!" Be wary of any organization that requires you to pay to fill out the FAFSA!

What is FAFSA on the Web?
FAFSA on the Web is the online version to complete the FAFSA. Completing the FAFSA on the Web is strongly recommended because:

• Applications are processed quickly (three to five days) - if electronic signatures were used (PIN must be used to electronically sign).

• It identifies potential errors right away and prompts students/parents to make on-the-spot corrections.

• It provides online instructions for each question and applicant can “chat” live online with a customer service representative for help.

What is a Personal Identification Number (PIN)?
A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is an electronic access code number that serves as the applicant’s identifier. With the PIN, students can:

• Apply online for federal student aid (FAFSA on the Web).

• “Sign” FAFSA application electronically.

• Make corrections to FAFSA.

• Access Student Aid Report (SAR) and make corrections to it.

• Access all federal student aid records online.

How to Get a PIN?

• Go to www.pin.ed.gov

  • Request a PIN first before completing the FAFSA on the Web application.

  • Parents of dependent students should also request a PIN.

  • Safeguard your PIN and remember it! Don’t give it to anyone!

What is a Student Aid Report (SAR)?
After the FAFSA has been completed and sent to the U.S. Department of Education, the student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). The student is encouraged to review the SAR to ensure that all submitted information is correct. The SAR will be sent electronically to the school(s) listed on the FAFSA application. After all application materials are complete, the financial aid office will notify the student of his or her eligibility for federal student aid, including any loan eligibility.

What are Financial Aid Packages?
Students will receive their award notifications from each college that was listed on the FAFSA. (Colleges use the information from the SAR to complete the award package.) Financial aid awards are commonly called “packages.” Packages can be any combination of scholarships, grants, loans and employment opportunities that help students meet the college costs. (Students should check directly with the financial aid offices of each school they are considering attending to learn whether additional documents might be needed to complete their financial aid application.)

Compare the received offers from various schools before making a decision of which college might be the best fit both academically and financially. Make sure the award offers are accepted in a timely manner.

How to Search for Scholarships?

1. Contact the admissions or financial aid offices at interested schools. Many colleges offer scholarships to recognize academic achievement or special talents, such as athletics or performing arts. Much of this information is available on college Web sites.

2. Check for scholarships sponsored by local organizations such as churches; parent’s place of employment; and civic and community clubs such as the American Legion, YMCA, 4-H Club, Elks, Masons, Kiwanis, Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, and the Girl or Boy Scouts.

3. Search the Internet for helpful financial aid information. For information on college, careers and financial aid choices, check out Mapping Your Future. FastWeb offers a reputable, free scholarship search data base. Avoid online scholarship searches or agencies that charge fees for their services.