FAFSA Application Process
Applying for financial aid is an annual process. Each family member who plans to attend college should complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after October 1st as possible for the following academic year. At Carteret Community College, the academic year begins in August and ends the following July. For instance, the academic year 2023 begins August 2023 and ends July 2024. You must file a FAFSA to receive grants, work-study and most scholarships.
Apply for a Federal Student Aid (FSA)
User Name & Password
The student and at least one parent (if the student is a dependent) must establish a FSA user name and password. The FSA user name and password represent your and one parent (if applicable) electronic signature on the FAFSA. You will need this information each year when you reapply for financial aid.
What Happens Now
After you submit your FAFSA, you can expect to receive a reply from the Department of Education. If you apply on-line or with a paper application and include an email address in your application, the Department of Education will reply to you via email. If you apply by mailing a paper FAFSA but do NOT include an email address, you will receive a Student Aid Report via the U.S. Postal Service.
PLEASE NOTE: This is not the final step in the application process. The college will send an email to your student email account with additional documentation requirements such as a tax transcript, household size verification, birth certificates, marriage license, etc. It is important that you reply to the colleges request for additional information promptly.
Additional Types of Aid
Students who plan to apply for additional assistance such as scholarships, work-study positions, and child care will need to complete a separate application specific to that program. The priority deadline to apply for scholarships or child care assistance is May 1st preceding the start of the new academic year. Please refer to the program applications for additional information and requirements.
Professional Judgement
If your situation (loss of job, income changes, etc.) changes because of unusual circumstances after submitting the FAFSA, please Contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss.
Helpful Hints When Applying for Financial Aid
Respond to correspondence. When the Financial Aid Office receives your FAFSA an email will be sent to your student email account. Please respond immediately to all requests for additional information. DO NOT ignore requests for additional information. Your financial aid will NOT be awarded until the necessary paperwork is provided. Make sure you include your name and student identification# on all correspondence submitted to our office.
Understand your rights and responsibilities. Be sure to understand your rights and responsibilities, as well as implications of all forms that you sign. To ensure that you receive the most aid possible, be organized and take an active role in the financial aid process. Search for additional aid available. Students are advised to complete a Carteret Community College Scholarship Application and search for outside agency scholarships for which they may be eligible.
