Financial Aid Tips | Capital University, Columbus Ohio
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    • Need guidance with financial aid? Follow these tips.

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      Capital Communications
      Whether you are currently enrolled at Capital University or considering your college options as the end of your high school career nears, chances are you have questions about financial aid. When is the best time to apply? What steps need to be taken? The list goes on.

      Reference these simple tips as you are navigating the financial aid puzzle:

      Apply for admission. Capital’s application process is free, and doubles as a scholarship application. It’s the first (and easiest) step to ensure you are considered for scholarship and grant opportunities. Start your online application here.

      File your FAFSA. This paperwork is a must for determining eligibility for need-based aid, which includes grants, loans and work-study programs. High school seniors should try to file the FAFSA by March 1; continuing undergraduates should re-file each year by April 1.  

      Do your research. Look for additional aid and scholarship opportunities beyond the FAFSA and what the university provides. Third-party awards are available from businesses, non-profit organizations, churches, school groups and more. Make sure to check with your guidance counselor for additional opportunities since companies often send materials to guidance offices. Helpful tip: Be wary of scholarship applications that require you to pay a fee to apply, as these opportunities are typically free.

      Watch for your financial aid award. Capital (and any university you are working with) will send you a financial aid package in the spring that provides your estimated cost to attend. Your award will show your FAFSA results along with institutional scholarships and grants. Your admission counselor will contact you to go over your award in detail over the phone or in person to make sure you understand it and answer any questions you might have. Spring is a great time to attend an accepted student visit day or schedule one last individual visit to campus to make sure you find your best-fit school.

      Submit supporting documents. Special circumstances, such as medical expenses and loss of employment, can affect a family’s ability to contribute to academic expenses. Check out this list for more information about submitting additional documents. Some students may also be selected for verification and have to send copies of W-2s and other forms. So be on the lookout for requests for more information, and be sure to reply quickly.

      Still have questions? Connect with one of Capital’s admission counselors at 614-236-6101 or admission@capital.edu. They can usually answer your questions quickly, or refer you to the Financial Aid Office.