Financial Aid | Financial Aid: Frequently Asked Questions

Financial Aid: Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is FAFSA?

FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and is a blanket application for student financial aid provided by the federal and state government. This includes grants, work study and loans.

2 How do I apply for financial aid?

The first step is to file the FAFSA online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov .

3 Do I have to apply for financial aid each year?

YES. Go online and file the FAFSA any time after January1.

4 I'm not sure my family will have financial need Should I complete the FAFSA?

YES. You could be eligible for loans

5 Must I be registered before I receive aid?

YES. No aid can be paid unless you are registered for the same number of credits your award is based on.

6 Can I register before I receive aid?

YES. However, you are accepting financial responsibility for your tuition and fees. You may need to contact Student Accounts to make payment arrangements while your financial aid application is being processed.

7 I do not receive any support from my parents Do I still need to include my parent’s financial information?

YES. Whether or not a student is dependent is based on federal guidelines. You are considered a dependent unless you meet at least one of the following criteria: 24 years old as of January 1, married, graduate or professional student, responsible for a legal dependent other than spouse, veteran of the US Armed Forces, orphan, ward of the court, or member of the National Guard or Reserves if called up to active federal duty by presidential order for a purpose other than training.

8 When will I get my money?

After all documents requested have been received by the Financial Services Office and reviewed by a specialist, an award letter will be sent to you. You must return your signed award letter. You must be registered for the number of credits on which your financial aid is based. Funds are usually mailed to you on the first day of class for students who have completed the financial aid process.

9 How much will I get?

The amount of financial aid you will receive is based on your EFC or expected family contribution. The EFC is a number calculated by the Department of Education and reflects the amount you/your parents can contribute to your education. This number appears on your Student Aid Report (SAR).

10 What about books?

Your financial aid refund can be used to purchase books and supplies.

11 How do I apply for a Stafford Loan?

Go to https://www.collegelenderlist.com/ . CCC Loan Application
Stafford Loan Information

12 Where do I get answers to my financial aid questions?

The Financial Aid Handbook can be accessed at http://depts.clackamas.edu/fs/handbook.asp. Answers are also available by phone (503) 657-6958 x 2745, in person at Roger Rook Hall, 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, or by e-mail at finaid@clackamas.edu .

13 How do I contact:

FAFSA or 1-800-433-3243
Department of Education: http://www.studentaid.ed.gov or 1-800-433-3243
IRS: http://www.irs.gov or 1-800-829-1040
Selective Service: http://www.sss.gov or 1-847-688-6888
Social Security Administration: http://www.socialsecurity.gov or 1-800-772-1213
National Center for Health Statistics (To obtain birth certificates): http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/ or 1-866-441-6247