At first glance, financial aid may seem confusing. However, by doing some simple research, you can understand the programs and learn how to apply for aid. There are several key people who can advise you on the best way to meet college expenses:
High school counselors receive information and training on financial aid programs and can help students begin pursuing sources of assistance.
Minnesota College Goal is a series of events held January through May to encourage and help students and their parents apply for financial aid. In Minnesota, visit www.minnesotacollegegoal.org for more information.
Financial aid administrators at the school you or your student wants to attend (or is attending) are the best single source of information on the types of aid available to you or your student's needs. These aid administrators usually have some degree of discretion in assessing and making judgments on individual needs of students and may consider special circumstances affecting a student's financial need. View financial aid contact information for a school.
The financial aid administrator serves many functions:
Most financial aid money, no matter where it comes from, is made available to the student through the colleges's financial aid office. Contact the aid administrator well before the start of the school term and consult the school's catalog for application deadlines.
Your local financial aid administrators also may hold a financial aid event where you can learn more about how financial aid works and your aid options.
Our staff also are knowledgeable about financial aid programs and issues. If a high school counselor or financial aid administrator cannot answer your question, e-mail your question to us.