Legend’s View

Financial aid is a dream come true for any of those lucky enough to be awarded, but along with its benefits can come its problems.
If a student is applying for financial aid, they’re not just doing it because they’re thinking about going to school, it’s a serious commitment.
There are, of course, the grueling, never-ending forms, and what seems like forever to wonder about how much money you’ll get, if it will cover the entire tuition bill, and when you’ll receive it.
With so many people in need and applying for financial aid, you also need to hope you receive the award by the time the semester begins, or you’ll be dropped from classes.
Students at MCC have been dropped and forced to re-register for classes multiple times during a semester because of problems with their financial aid distribution.
Frequent problems with financial aid have been described as futile problems with payment plans and money being taken at random, to the verification process itself.
There are many documents needed to even begin the application for financial aid including your social security number, driver’s license number, income tax returns, your W-2 and any records of untaxed income.
For students living on their own and claiming themself as independent on tax returns, the amount you can receive from FAFSA becomes hazy.
If you are under the age of 24, even if independent, FAFSA will still consider your parent’s income to calculate your expected family contribution.
Most of the problems are the result of idle time, with students concerned about pending forms and applications, or just generally anxious about the semester starting.
All students applying for aid should be aware to plan ahead and apply early. It is a very time-consuming process and matter.

  • Mesa Legend Staff

    These are archived stories from Mesa Legend editions before Fall 2018. See article for corresponding author.

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