Skip to main content

Apply & Compare

What to consider when applying for financial aid and considering offers.
iStock-468838951_2200X1080_O

How to compare your financial aid offers.


Congratulations on your acceptance! If you listed a school on your FAFSA form, their financial aid office may reach out to you, typically through email, to present your aid offer. This exciting offer will outline the various types and amounts of financial assistance available to you, drawn from federal, state, private, and institutional sources. Together, these resources create a comprehensive financial aid package to support you on your educational journey!

At the RISLA College Planning Center, we’re here to help you every step of the way on your college journey! Schedule a free appointment today!

 

Applying for Financial Aid

Step 1

Create Your FSA ID

Applying for your FSA ID is a simple and important step! Just head over to studentaid.gov. You'll create a username and password that let you sign documents electronically and update your FAFSA as needed. Remember, both students and parents need their own FSA IDs, so use different email addresses when signing up. Happy applying!

 

Step 2

Complete The FAFSA Form

The FAFSA is vital for all colleges. It helps assess your Student Aid Index (SAI) and determines your eligibility for federal and state financial aid. Many institutions also use it to evaluate their own aid options.

Be sure to check the college's website and submit your FAFSA before the deadline—it's a great step toward securing the support you need!

Step 3

Complete the CSS Profile

Many private colleges ask for the CSS PROFILE application or their unique financial aid forms to determine your eligibility for their financial aid programs. You can begin completing the PROFILE as early as October at cssprofile.collegeboard.org—how exciting is that! 

It's important to check if you need to submit any additional forms alongside the FAFSA, and don’t forget to adhere to each school’s deadlines. Below, you'll find convenient links to guide you through the process. Let's get started on securing the funding you deserve!

45_2200X1450_OPTIMIZED
Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 3.21.46 PM

The Financial Aid Guide

Provides free tools and resources for parents and students to navigate the college financial aid application process.

Comparing Award Letters

Let's start comparing the award letters to help us identify your best financial option.

Comparing Your Award Letters

Closing the Financial Gap

Screen Shot 2025-01-16 at 10.36.57 AM

Meeting the Cost of College

Track your college expenses easily with a simple worksheet that allows you to compare costs across different colleges. Doing the math can save you money in the long run!

RISLA_SOCIAL_SCHOLARSHIP_HUB_0123_JAN_02

RISLA Scholarship Hub

Helping parents & students pay for college.

Did you know college scholarships are free money to help pay for college expenses? Well, it's true! And the RISLA Scholarship Hub is here to help students and parents find extra funds to help pay for college.

💸 The best kind of funds . . . the kind you don't have to pay back! 

04_APRIL_2024

Enter to Win!

Knowledge for College Scholarship!

Check out Knowledge for College Scholarship! We award $2,000 each to four randomly selected students every month. Whether you need help covering tuition, books, or living expenses, our scholarship can help ease the burden.

🤩 Take your chance to win - enter every month for your prize!

 

05_MAY_2024

rischolarships.org

A free scholarship search tool!

Discover hundreds of local scholarships waiting for you. The search is fast and simple, making it effortless to find your perfect match!

    We are with you for the journey.

    College Planning

    A free service aimed at helping students achieve their goal of attending college and paying for it. The CPC assists thousands of students and families each year in planning for higher education.

    Scholarship Hub

    Check out how to prepare for college—access free tools and resources.  Find local scholarships for college, and parents and students can enter to win $2,000 in college scholarships!

    Student Loans

    Our student loans offer flexible repayment options, competitive interest rates, and a simple application process, making them an ideal choice for parents and students.

    Refinancing

    With our refinancing options, you can enjoy the benefits of low fixed interest rates, no fees, and an auto-pay discount. Take advantage of this opportunity to save money and simplify your finances. 

    What customers are saying about RISLA

    TRUSTPILOT_LOGO_250X61_OPTIMIZED