what all do i get from fasfa?

<p>I have no income and 2 kids. Which is why im going to be starting collage in jan, however im going to be getting a fasfa what all do i get from there? im going to be going to AVILA in kansas city so the drive from my home is a little ways wil they help me with gas money?????? I have to go full time for my program, does that mean anything????</p>

<p>FAFSA doesn't give any money, it is the application that must be filled out to determine eligibility for federal aid, and is also used by colleges and individual states to award money. The money comes from the colleges, the federal and state programs.</p>

<p>As zoosermom says you do not actually get anything from FAFSA. When you complete FAFSA it uses the produces a number called the EFC (Expected Family Contribution). The school takes the EFC away from their (COA) Cost Of Attendance. The difference between the EFC and the COA is your 'need' on which the school bases your financial aid award. </p>

<p>Your EFC is based on your parent's income and assets and your income and assets for a dependent student and just your income and assets for an independent student (I am guessing you will be independent if you have 2 kids). The COA is usually made up of an averaged student cost for tuition & fees/room & board/books/travel/miscellaneous expenses. </p>

<p>The aid you are likely to receive depends on your need as calculated above (not what you think you need) and the schools financial aid policies. Some schools promise to meet full need. Many do not. Aid may consist of grant money (generally for very low income families except at elite schools)/loans/work study and possibly a gap. A gap is where full need is not met.</p>

<p>To get an idea of what your EFC may be run your numbers through an EFC like the one here
FinAid</a> | Calculators | Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and Financial Aid</p>

<p>Do your FAFSA as early as possible to be eligible fo the most aid. Make sure you go to the correct web site
FAFSA</a> - Free Application for Federal Student Aid</p>

<p>Do not go to the .com site - they charge you and FAFSA is FREE.</p>

<p>bamspeach, it sounds like you need a lot more help than you'll probably get on a message board. I would suggest that you speak to your school's financial aid office ASAP; they can help you with the process and also explain what's going on.</p>

<p>I agree with Chedva. Please schedule a meeting with your financial aid office. They will be a huge help.</p>