Finance Authority of Maine
FAME's 5 on the 5th 
December 2010

 

College Financing Tips for Veterans


1.     Start Early

 

There are many education benefits available to veterans. Your spouse and children might even be able to use the benefits. Some benefits require that you take action while enlisted, and other benefits have time limits and may expire. Go to the GI Bill Web site to start learning about the programs available to you now.  Applications can take time to process, so start early!

 
 
2.  Apply for Financial Aid


You might be eligible for other types of financial aid too. Go to www.fafsa.gov and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is a federal application that colleges use to determine the types of federal financial aid you might be able to receive.

 

Financial aid comes in the form of grants and scholarships, student loans, and work-study. Financial aid can help pay for college costs that are not covered by veterans' education benefits. You can also use financial aid to cover the college bill while waiting for your benefits to be processed.

 


3.  Contact your School's Veterans' Services Office


Be sure you contact the office or person that processes veterans' benefits at the college you will attend. They will explain the steps required to receive your benefits and can help you with the paperwork. This office might also be able to help you with transfer services and the admissions process.

 

 

4.  Meet with an Advisor


Every college has advisors who help students while they are in school. Your advisor might be the same person who processes your benefit forms, or your advisor might be one of your professors.  Your advisor will provide guidance in choosing a major, selecting courses, and staying on track for graduation. They are a valuable resource, so be certain to meet with your advisor at least once per semester.

 

 

5.  Apply for Scholarships

 

Ask your college if they have any scholarships that require an application in addition to the FAFSA. Check with any groups or organizations that you or your family members belong to (Elks Club, Snowmobile Clubs, etc), and be sure to ask your employer if they offer education benefits.

 

You can also search for scholarships online. FAME's Web site has a Maine-based scholarship search as well as links to national scholarships searches. Use only FREE searches and never pay a fee to receive a scholarship.

 

 
Finance Authority of Maine
www.famemaine.com
 
Tel:      (207) 623-3263
           (800) 228-3734
Fax:     (207) 623-0095
TTY:    (207) 626-2717