The cost of attending college is a mjaor expense. The costs vary from college to college. The non-residential community colleges are the least expensive. The Massachusetts State Colleges and Universities are considered public institutions and are much less expensive than private colleges. The total cost of attending colleges ia the total cost of tuition, fees and room and board. Commuting students pay less but do not participate in the on-campus living experience. There are various types of college aid: scholarships, grants, loans, and work study. Bristol-Plymouth will host a Financial Aid workshop in December to assist withthe financial aid process.

1. Information about private scholarships is available on the following websites: www.finaid.com and www.fastweb.com.

2. The FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid will be available in the guidance office on January 1. All colleges require this form to determine if the student is eligible for federal, state, or institution grants, loans or awards. Completing this form requires financial information from the calendar year preceding college attendance. All students may register for a PIN before January 1.

3. Many selective private colleges also require the CSS Profile. This form is also availalbe in the guidance office.

To qualify for financial aid, it is very important to complete all necessary applications and meet each college's application deadline. Three of the most commonly used forms include:

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The FAFSA is a free federal form that all colleges and universities require, and is available online starting January 1. You may obtain a paper FAFSA at high schools, colleges, and public libraries, however, online filing is recommended. The FAFSA website is www.fafsa.ed.gov. Students and parents can also utilize the MEFA link at www.mefacounselor.org. In order to begin the electronic process parents and students must apply for a pin number on the FAFSA website. The pin number is required for a parent and student to electronically sign the FAFSA prior to completion.

CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE
The CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE is an additional application that many private colleges and universities require. The CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE asks for in-depth information for the purpose of awarding college aid. The CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE may only be filed online. The PROFILE application is available on the College Board website at www.collegeboard.com. Students can check with their Guidance Counselor to see if their private college requires the PROFILE.

College Financial Aid Application
Some colleges and universities may require their own application form as well. Check the college's admissions viewbook or catalog, or call their Financial Aid Office to find out if a college financial aid application is required.

Other Resources
www.finaid.com
www.fastweb.com

MEFA Counselor
MEFA or Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority is a non-profit authority of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts whose mission is to provide parents with helpful hints about successfully navigating the college admissions and financial aid process. You can register on-line at this "one-stop" site at www.mefacounselor.org.