laid off or facing an expensive medical bill, it should be reported. If earnings reported on a tax return will likely not recur the following year, also make sure the college’s financial aid office knows this. 

6) Don’t Inflate Education
Rumors are that some schools will give applicants extra credit if they are considered “first-generation college students.” Given this, parents who never graduated from college should select “high school” as their highest education qualification.

7) Make Sure the Right Person Fills Out the Right Information 
If parents are divorced or separated, the right parent needs to fill out the financial aid form. The parent responsible for filling out the form is the one a student has lived with for the majority of the year, even if the other parent is the legal custodial guardian.

8) Check and Double Check Check Everything 
Make absolutely, positively sure no answers were left blank or lines left unsigned. Enter a zero or N/A where appropriate if the question does not apply to you. Make sure everything is spelled correctly and numbers are accurate. Check and double check the FAFSA before it’s submitted. Errors will slow the FAFSA process and lower the aid.

9) Keep Records
When you file any form, keep a copy of the form you are submitting for your records.

IMPORTANT:  Be aware of all deadlines! Failure to meet any deadlines may impact on the amount of financial aid received.

Guest post provided by INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE COUNSELORS

Last year, college advisors at International College Counselors helped more than 300 students find, apply to, and gain acceptance into the college of their dreams. The expert college counselors at International College Counselors are dedicated to helping students and their families successfully navigate the college application process.