Financial Aid Timeline: Senior Year
Make sure you have a Social Security number. You will need one to file for financial aid.
September
If you intend to submit and Early Action or Early Decision college application, check with the college Office of Financial Aid for their deadlines.
October
If you are applying to a private school, check to see if they require the CSS Profile.
CSS Profile Student Guide provides great information for getting started including a list of colleges. (See the section for the CSS Profile)
The CSS Profile is available October 1st. Check with each college Financial Aid Office for specific requirements and deadlines. There is an initial application fee and additional fee for each report sent to colleges. See the section for the CSS Profile)
November
Attend Financial Aid Information Night at FHS for an understanding of terms, process and the financial aid timeline.
December
Request your PIN (Personal Identification Number) for the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) http://www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp (See the section on the FAFSA)
Parents should gather their tax information and prepare to complete your taxes early. This will help in filling out the FAFSA as information requested is based on your current income tax information.
If you intend to apply for a Cal Grant, talk to your counselor about submitting your verified Cal Grant GPA to the California Student Aid Commission. This must be done along with the FAFSA by March 2.
January
Obtain the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Available January 1st. https://fafsa.ed.gov/. (See the section for the FAFSA)
Attend the FAFSA Workshop at Foothill High for help filling out your form. Watch for an announcement for the day and time.
February
Contact the college Office of Financial Aid and inquire about financial aid programs that might be available to you. Make sure you are aware of any deadlines specific to a particular college.
March
File your FAFSA and/or Cal Grant Application before the March deadline.
April
Compare your financial aid awards from colleges that have offered you admission. Contact the College & Career Center if you have any questions.
If you have any questions or concerns about the financial aid offered to you, contact the college – Office of Financial Aid. They are very helpful.
May-June
Make sure you have completed any financial aid forms requested by the college of your choice. Call the Financial Aid office if you do not receive a confirmation. Never assume.