What is the FAFSA
Whether you are self-supporting or your parents pay for your college expenses, you should complete a FAFSA for each academic year you attend COM to see what aid you may qualify to receive. You will never know if you can receive a scholarship or grant unless you fill out this easy application.
Play VideoHow Do I Know if I Am Eligible for Financial Aid?
The only way to truly know if you are eligible for financial assistance is to complete the official FAFSA application. To help you estimate your potential aid beforehand, the federal government provides a quick estimation tool:
- Estimate Your Aid: [Federal Government's FAFSA Forecaster Tool]
- Note: The FAFSA Forecaster can predict your financial aid eligibility based on your answers to a few quick questions.
FAFSA Myths and Misconceptions
Don't let common misunderstandings keep you from securing funding for your education.
Reality: The FAFSA is easier than ever to complete online. The digital application walks you through step by step, asking only the specific questions that apply to your situation.
Reality: There is no strict income cut-off to qualify for federal student aid, as many different financial factors are considered. Furthermore, when you fill out the FAFSA, you automatically apply for available state funds.
Reality: Federal student aid funds are awarded based on demonstrated financial need, not your age.
Reality: While some specific scholarships require high grades, others look for average performance. All federal student aid programs simply require you to maintain satisfactory academic progress, meaning you are expected to successfully pass your classes.
Questions? We're here to help.
If you have questions about financial aid or need any assistance applying, please connect with our campus team:
Hours:
- Monday–Tuesday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Wednesday–Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
