You are embarking on one of the most important investment decisions in your life – your child’s education. Today, most students rely on some form of financial aid in order to attend Nicholls State University. While college financial assistance can come from a variety of sources, federal government programs provide approximately 70 percent of all student aid. There are also state programs, such as the Louisiana Tuition Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS), that may offer scholarships, grants and other types of financial assistance. Regardless of income, residence or academic credentials, students should apply for financial aid. Some students who believe they are ineligible for assistance learn that they are eligible.
Federal financial aid works on two assumptions:
- Your student is expected to contribute something toward the cost of attending college. If your student is a dependent, you, as a parent are also expected to help your son or daughter with college costs.
- Financial aid is available to help you with the college costs you are unable to pay.
Even if your student does not live with you and will be paying for college himself, the federal government requires you to provide your income information UNLESS your student:
- is 24 years or older as of Dec. 31 for the current award year,
- is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces,
- is a graduate or professional school student,
- is married,
- is an orphan or a ward of the court, or was a ward of the court until age 18,
- has legal dependents (other than a spouse) who THEY support over half of the time or
- has documentation of special circumstances that make him independent.
If your family is committed to making sure your student is successful in college, there are many ways the Office of Financial Aid can assist you. Some tips to help you through the process include:
- Complete the FAFSA early.
- Respond promptly to requests from the Office of Financial Aid.
- Keep copies of all documents you submit in a special folder.
- Please visit the Office of Financial Aid’s website for more information.