What is financial aid?<\/h2>\n
Financial aid<\/strong> is money that helps students pay for college. It can come from the federal government, state governments, colleges, or private organizations \u2014 pretty much any source outside of you or your family\u2019s immediate resources.<\/p>\n Financial aid can be need-based<\/strong> (determined by your financial situation) or merit-based<\/strong> (awarded for achievements like academic performance or leadership).<\/p>\n Financial aid<\/strong> comes in several forms:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Free Application for Federal Student Aid<\/a> (FAFSA)<\/strong> is the key to unlocking financial aid. This online application determines eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and loans.<\/strong> Some schools also use the FAFSA to determine whether you qualify for institutional aid.<\/p>\n Many states and colleges also use FAFSA information to award their own aid. Completing the FAFSA is the most important step you can take in paying for college<\/em>, ensuring you have access to the most financial support possible.<\/p>\n When filling out the FAFSA, you’ll need to provide financial details about your household.<\/p>\n If you are a dependent student<\/strong>, you must include both you and your contributors\u2019 income and tax information (this is usually your parent). If your parents are divorced or separated, the parent who primarily supports you should be listed.<\/p>\n Independent students<\/strong> only have to include their own (and their spouse\u2019s if applicable,) financial information.<\/p>\n In most cases, you are considered a dependent student<\/strong> if you’re under 24 years old. You qualify as an independent student<\/strong> if you’re 24 or older by the date specified on the FAFSA.<\/p>\n Under certain circumstances<\/strong> (such as being an emancipated minor,) students under 24 may be classified as independent. Other factors, such as veteran or marital status, can also impact whether you’re a dependent or independent student. Visit the Student Aid website<\/a> or contact Student Financial Services<\/a> to learn more.<\/p>\n FAFSA deadlines vary depending on federal, state, and institutional requirements:<\/p>\n To apply for financial aid, follow these steps:<\/p>\n Ready to make the most of your financial aid opportunities?<\/p>\n We suggest keeping these tips in mind as you apply for aid:<\/p>\n Navigating financial aid can seem complex, but with the information you need and some proactive planning, you can make the most of the resources and opportunities available to you.<\/p>\n At UB, we believe you deserve an education that\u2019s not only future-focused and career-ready but cost-effective, too. Visit or contact our Financial Aid Office<\/a> today and discover how UB can help make your college dream more affordable!<\/p>\n <\/p>\nWhat are the different types of financial aid?<\/h3>\n
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Did you know that 99% of UB students received grant or scholarship aid in the fall 2024 semester? You\u2019re not alone! Paying for college doesn\u2019t have to be stressful \u2014 learn more about funding your UB education!<\/a><\/em><\/h3>\n
What is the FAFSA?<\/h2>\n
Why is the FAFSA important?<\/h3>\n
When completing the FAFSA, whose information gets listed?<\/h3>\n
How do I know if I\u2019m a dependent or independent student?<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nWhen is the FAFSA deadline?<\/h3>\n
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How do I apply for financial aid?<\/h2>\n
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Financial aid tips<\/h2>\n
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Funding your future<\/h2>\n
Your future is purple. Learn more about joining the UB community today!<\/a><\/em><\/h3>\n