It's College Planning Season

01/23/2012

Get Started Early!

Depending on where you apply to college you may need up to three kinds of forms to get financial aid.  

  1. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA)

    The FASFA form must be completed by everyone who wish to receive federal government aid.

  2. The CSS/ Financial Aid Profile

    The Financial Aid Profile is a web-based form some colleges and scholarship programs require in order to award non-federal funds. 

  3. Other forms for Individual Colleges or States

    College forms - Most private colleges/universities require students to complete the school's financial aid form in addition to completing the FASFA form.

    State forms - Most states offer need-based financial aid to their residents in order to apply for state scholarships or grant programs.

Quick Tips to Help

  1. File on time - begin in January. Filing early can save you money
  2. File FASFA form online
    • It helps to have your tax return completed; however you can estimate your figures and correct the information when your tax return is completed
  3. Review each college you are applying for so you know which forms they require
  4. Gather all the records you need to fill out the forms for both the children and parents
    • Example:  Forms W2, 1099, pay stubs, bank statements, brokerage statements and other asset and income information
  5. Research Scholarship opportunities
    • The College Board Scholarship Handbook is a great guide to available scholarships and the New Jersey State Society of Certified Public Accountants Scholarship Fund 

Financial Aid Calendar

In efforts to help you stay up-to-date during the college planning process, our Certified College Planning Specialist, James Lawrence, CPA, CCPS has created a  Financial Aid Calendar. Please download a copy of the calendar.

These are just a few tips to help jump start your college planning process.  James Lawrence, CPA, CCPS, can assist you throughout the entire college planning process. Contact Jim today to schedule an appointment - jim@tfgllc.com or 201-262-1040x. 210 

Our Firm is Dedicated to Your Personal and Business Success!

Attachments: 
Financial Aid Calendar.pdf