Financial aid is money that you can receive for your educational expenses. This money can come from different entities such as the federal government, a school or state government. The purpose of financial aid is to supplement the amount you and your family contribute. There are generally four types of financial aid.

1. Grants-Aid that does not have to be repaid. Grants are awarded based on need. http://www.uheaa.org/parentStudent02b.html

2. Work Study-A federal program that allows you to work on or off campus. This type does not need to be repaid because you are exchanging work for financial aid. http://www.uheaa.org/parentStudent02d.html

3. Education Loans-Money borrowed from an institution or the federal government. These educational loans must be repaid with interest.
http://www.uheaa.org/parentStudent02a.html

4. Scholarships-Usually awarded based on academics, talent, ethnic background, special ability, etc. This type of aid does not need to be repaid. 
http://mmhs.nebo.edu/node/78

To find out if you qualify for Federal Student Aid, you must fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). All of Utah's colleges and universities accept the FAFSA to apply for federal financial aid. 

Juniors can fill out the FAFSA4Caster anytime during their junior year to get an idea of what they may qualify for their senior year. This 4Caster rolls over to the student's senior year, so they are not required to do the whole process over again.

Seniors are encouraged to start on the FAFSA form the beginning of February to optimize their opportunity for aid.

Below is a checklist of information you need to fill out the FAFSA form. Click: FAFSA

The following are FAFSA codes for Utah's college and universities: 

 The following websites provide additional information on Federal Financial Aid programs:

http://www.finaid.org/
http://bemoneysmart.org/
http://www.uheaa.org/
http://www.brokepiggy.com