<p>I'm applying to a few different schools but where I go pretty much depends solely on how much financial aid I receive. I will have heard back from all of my schools before January 1 when you can finally turn in your FAFSA, so by the time mine has been turned in and processed it will probably be some point in February. Will I get to compare all of my aid packages before accepting an admission offer?</p>
<p>I’m assuming you are applying EA and to rolling admissions schools to be hearing back by January. If that is the case, you do NOT have to make an enrollment decision until May 1, 2010. You should check to see when the financial aid application forms are due for each school. Some have an early priority deadline if they require the Profile or a school form…or want your previous year’s tax returns. Make sure you check. Some EA schools in particular will give you an early estimate of financial aid if you meet the priority deadline. In any event…check the deadlines for financial aid applications to be completed…and get the info in on time…as early as possible. </p>
<p>You will have your aid package well before May 1 but only if you complete the financial aid application requirements on time for each school.</p>
<p>If you are applying Early Decision…you should already have sent in some kind of financial aid application (Profile and/or school form). Most ED schools require one of these and they do have an early deadline so that they can process your aid if they accept you ED.</p>
<p>Do you know if the schools that you’re applying to meet 100% of determined need?</p>
<p>Do you know what your family’s EFC is? Can they pay their EFC?</p>
<p>Do you know that many FA packages have gaps and have many student loans in them?</p>
<p>What are your financial safety schools?</p>