Financial need, as well as other factors, helps figure out if a student is eligible for financial aid. To find out if they are eligible, students need to fill out a FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This is the only way to determine eligibility for financial aid.

There are some basic requirements that must be met. Students need to:

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (such as a permanent resident).
• Have a valid Social Security Number.
• Show proof that they are qualified to attend college (has earned a GED, high school diploma or equivalency certificate).
• Be accepted for enrollment or already enrolled, at least part-time, at a college, university, or vocational school.
• Show there is a need for financial help by filling out the FAFSA.

You might not be able to get financial aid if:
You've been convicted under a federal or state law of selling or possessing illegal drugs.