I know I don't qualify for aid. Should I still complete the FAFSA?
Don't assume anything! Here are just a few reasons to complete the application.
Federal Student Aid Helpful Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@FSAOutreach/featured
How do I apply for financial aid?
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You need to complete the FAFSA every year.
HACC's school code is 003273.
When is the deadline for financial aid at HACC?
If you miss the deadline date, you may still be considered for the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Direct Loans or Federal Direct PLUS Loan. In this case, you must submit the FAFSA:
Do I have to be a full-time student to qualify for financial aid?
No, you do not need to be a full-time student. Most financial aid programs require an enrollment status of six credits.
The Government defines enrollment for fall, spring and summer as:
When can I get financial aid?
The Fall and Spring semesters are awarded based on the FAFSA being on file with HACC and any requirements being completed. The Summer is awarded separately after Financial Aid gets confirmation of enrollment for the Summer semester..
Why do I have to provide my parents' information?
The U.S. Department of Education determines your dependency status. It views you, your parents or spouse (if applicable) as your primary financial source for your postsecondary education.
Unless you can answer "YES" to one of the dependency questions on the FAFSA, you will be required to provide parental information. In unusual cases, the financial aid administrator can change your dependency based on adequate documentation of special circumstances you may have. If you feel you have unusual circumstances, talk to a Financial Aid Administrator.
REMEMBER: You are NOT automatically classified as independent if:
My parents are divorced. I live with my mother and stepfather. Does the Government require my stepfather to provide his information on the FAFSA?
Yes, you need to include his information on the FAFSA.
My parents are divorced. I live with my mother. My father claims me on his taxes. What should I do?
The Government requires only the custodial parent to supply financial information. A custodial parent is the parent you lived with the most in the last year. Complete all parent financial aid questions using information about your mother.
How do I complete the FAFSA if I can't provide parent information?
If you can't provide information because your parents refuse to complete the FAFSA, then your options are limited. Your parents should understand that:
We suggest you explain these facts to your parents to see if they change their mind. However, the last option is to apply for a Direct Unsubsidized Loan by completing the Parental Non-Support form available in the Financial Aid Office. We do not recommend this since you will only be eligible for loans and never considered for grants, scholarships or work-study.
If you can't provide parental information because you have an extreme circumstance, you may be eligible for a Dependency Override. Overrides are done on a case-by-case basis and requires significant documentation from you. Contact the Financial Aid Office to see if you qualify for a Dependency Override. Some situations include:
I earned a Bachelor's Degree in another country. Do I qualify for financial aid?
You may be eligible for federal student loans and work-study programs. Students with a Bachelor's Degree are not eligible for Federal or State Grants. This is regardless of citizenship status.
You must answer "yes" to the question on the FAFSA that asks if you have a Bachelor's Degree.
I am not a U.S. Citizen. Do I qualify for financial aid?
You must have an "eligible noncitizen" status to qualify for aid. You will receive additional information and eligibility requirements.