<p>I know nothing about the financial aid process. When do I apply? Where do I apply? Does ED affect any sort of deadline? Please help, I don't know where to start...</p>
<p>The first thing you need to know is whether your school(s) require Profile and FAFSA or just FAFSA. You also need to know what their priority deadlines for FA are. All of this info, and scholarship information, can be found on each school’s website. </p>
<p>FAFSA for 2012-2013 will not be available until January 1st. You can get an approximate EFC (Expected Family Contribution - though that’s a misnomer) by using the EFC calculator on collegeboard.com. Finaid.org has a lot of good info about student aid, loans, etc.</p>
<p>For specific questions and strategies, this forum is gold - use the search function and then ask for whatever else you need!</p>
<p>There is a sticky thread at the top of this forum that says START HERE. Try there.</p>
<p>Samonuh…the required forms and the DEADLINES for those will be found on EACH COLLEGE WEBSITE. You need to check there to find out what you need to do and when it MUST be received by the colleges. Many schools DO have a priority Profile filing date for ED applicants so that the schools can get an estimated package to you with an ED acceptance (should you receive one).</p>
<p>Check EACH college website where you are applying…the schools are very good about listing the required forms AND the DEADLINES. Don’t miss the deadlines. You will need to check each school because the requirements and deadlines vary by school.</p>