Applying for financial aid can be intimidating. But don’t let that stop you. Even if you don’t think you qualify, give it a go. There may be money out there with your name on it!
First, a few definitions. Financial aid comes in two forms—need-based and merit-based. Need-based financial aid is awarded based on financial need; merit-based scholarships are awarded for academic performance, athletic ability and other talents.
To apply for need-based aid, start here:
- Put your financial house in order. Collect all your tax information—and if your parents still claim you on their taxes, encourage them to do the same--as soon after January 1 as possible. You’ll need this information to complete financial aid forms.
- Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid—the famous FAFSA. Because financial aid is awarded generally on a first-come, first-served basis, submit your FAFSA by February 1—if possible—and no later than March 1. You can complete your FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Be sure to include our school code—003812—on your FAFSA.
- West Virginia high schoolers will want to complete the application for PROMISE Scholarships and the West Virginia Higher Education Grant long before March 1. Here’s the address for the online application:
- Wait. You will receive results from your applications in a few weeks. Review everything carefully. Some students will have to correct their results. Others will be asked to submit verification. If this is the case, contact our office—(800) 641-5678, Opt. 3, or (304) 367-4213—and we’ll help you through it.
To apply for merit based aid, start here:
- Complete the Scholarship Application by February 1 each year. The application is available on this website and in the Student Service Center, Room 248 Hardway Building from November 1-February 1.
- And, there’s good news about merit-based Falcon Scholarships: these are awarded based on your completed admission file. So apply for admission early, we award these scholarships on a first-come, first-served basis beginning in February.
