How to Apply
Students may apply using a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or a Renewal Application. Students may obtain a FAFSA application at the Sierra College Financial Aid Office or high school.
Students may also file an electronic application using www.fafsa.ed.gov. FAFSA on the web is free and automatically edits applicant answers before transmitting, resulting in better information and fewer errors. Processing time can also be reduced by several weeks.
REMEMBER that if you plan on attending Sierra College you must enter our Title IV Institution code, 001290, on either the paper or electronic web application form. If you are transferring midyear to another institution, list both schools on your application.
Financial aid is not automatic - you must apply for or renew your financial aid each school year.
After you have completed your application, submit your form to the Federal Processing Center. Approximately 2 weeks from the date you mail your signature page of the FAFSA on the Web, or 4 to 6 weeks after you mail in your paper FAFSA, you will receive your confirmation called a Student Aid Report (SAR). Sierra College will also be sent your FAFSA information electronically. We will notify you by letter of any additional documents that may be required to complete your application.
PRIORITY DATES AND DEADLINES 2006-2007
Selection Criteria
How Awards Are Determined:
Your family financial information is computer-evaluated by the Federal Processing Center and then transmitted electronically to Sierra College. The Financial Aid staff may verify the information using IRS tax forms and other documents before determining the type and amount of aid for which you are eligible.
Dependent or Independent
The Financial Aid Office is required to determine whether you are considered dependent or independent of parental financial support using federal standards. This is calculated from information you provide on the FAFSA and may require additional documentation. Note that once submitted, your application information is held in confidence and cannot be released to your parents.
Expected Family Contribution:
You may be expected to contribute toward your education from your own resources such as employment, assets, and spousal income. This amount is called your "Expected Family Contribution" (EFC) and is calculated from the FAFSA.
Determining Financial Need:
In addition to your student budget, a number of other conditions are considered to establish your cost of attendance at Sierra College. Your "Expected Family Contribution" is then subtracted from your "Cost of Attendance." If you still have an unmet need, you will receive a financial award based on program requirements and available funds.
NOTE: Students with unusual circumstances that may affect eligibility for financial aid, such as changes in income or employment, or unusual medical expenses, should speak with a financial aid technician.