10 Steps to Applying for Financial Aid in RI

1. Get a PIN.

Sign up for a PIN at www.pin.ed.gov so you can electronically submit your financial aid forms.

2. Complete the FAFSA.

This is the most essential part of the financial aid process. If you don’t do it, you could lose out on a lot of aid. Submit after January 1 at fafsa.ed.gov.

3. Submit the CSS Profile.

Not all schools require this form, but if yours does, make sure you submit it online by their deadline. https://student.collegeboard.org/css-financial-aid-profile

4. Get free help.

There are free resources in RI to help you complete the FAFSA and other financial aid forms. Check out the College Planning Center of RI or College Goal RI.

5. Meet deadlines.

You must submit the FAFSA by March 1 in order to be considered for the RI State Grant. Your school also has a deadline you must stick to so you don’t miss out on free money for college!

6. Review your eligibility.

Once you submit the FAFSA, you will receive your Expected Family Contribution. Review what you submitted to make sure there were no mistakes and inform schools of any changes to your circumstances.

7. Apply for local scholarships.

Use free tools online, like the College Planning Center’s RIScholarships.org to find local scholarships that can help meet college costs. The guidance office is another great place to check for local opportunities!

8. Be patient.

After you submit your FAFSA and other financial aid forms, it may be a while before you get an award package from the school. For regular decision, it will usually come in April with acceptance letters.

9. Compare Awards.

Once you receive your awards, you will need to compare them to see which is best. A larger award doesn’t always translate to a better award…pay attention to how your need was met. Grants and scholarships are the best types of aid.

10. Apply for loans.

Apply for loans to meet any unmet needs. Always be careful to compare options and fully understand your rates and fees. Only borrow what you need and make sure your loan payments will be affordable!