Why should you file the FAFSA?
Many scholarship organizations will not consider you for
scholarship unless you have filed a FAFSA. Regardless of whether or
not you feel you will receive government funding, the FAFSA is a
valuable way to maximize your potential for aid.
The FAFSA will determine what federal aid you'll qualify for;
it's important to use any federal aid you receive. Always use
available grant and scholarship aid before applying for a loan.
When considering loan options, remember to use your federal aid
before applying for private loans. Federal loans usually have lower
fixed interest rates and more flexible repayment options than
private loans. For more information, visit the US Department of
Education's Federal Aid First website.
Financial Aid is available to almost everyone. Last year, about
94% of the freshmen class received some form of financial aid.
Financial Aid packages vary from person to person, but the most
common types of programs are grants, scholarships, federal
work-study, and student loans.
Getting Started
Step 1: FAFSA 4caster (www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov)
This tool allows you to estimate your Expected Family
Contribution number, or EFC. Your EFC is what determines the types
of awards and award amounts that you are eligible to receive. We
also use your EFC number to calculate MSMC need-based grants and
scholarships. This is an estimating tool only.
Step 2: FAFSA Website
This is the official application website. A FAFSA is
required to award you federal and institutional need-based aid.
Fill out the FAFSA form online:www.fafsa.ed.gov
Our FAFSA priority deadline for freshmen is February 14.
Regular deadline is March 1.
Our Title IV School Code: 002778
Our NYS TAP Code: 2110
You may complete your FAFSA anytime after January 1, 2013 for
fall consideration. February 14, 2013 is our date of first
priority freshmen awarding for most programs. Returning students
should file the Renewal FAFSA no later than April 15.
Step 3: State Grant Website (www.hesc.org)
At the end of your FAFSA application, you'll see a link to your
state grant website. If you are a New York State resident, clicking
on the link will bring you to the New York State Higher Education
Services website, where you can complete your Tuition Assistance
Program application for a state grant.
You'll get an email from the US Department of Education about 72
hours after you submit the FAFSA.
If your comments page indicates that you were selected for
verification (and at least 30% of all students are selected), you
can download your verification worksheets.
Contact Financial Aid
finaid@msmc.edu
Phone: 845-569-3194
Fax: 845-569-3302