Tax time: a good reminder to apply for aid
For college students and parents, tax time is a great time to complete the forms required to apply for college financial aid. “Not only is it a good reminder to apply at tax time, but because much of the same information is needed for filing taxes and applying for financial aid, it can be convenient to complete both at one time.” Nash Community College (NCC) Vice President for Student and Enrollment Services Larry Mitchell said.
Whether a student is planning to attend Nash Community College soon or in the future, applying for Financial Aid when tax returns are completed will ensure applicants have the appropriate information and documents within reach. Once taxes are filed, the Financial Aid applicant will be able to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to retrieve their tax information in the Financial Aid system.
Following these steps can can aid in the application process. First apply for college admissioon before attempting to apply for Financial Aid. Next, apply online for Financial Aid at www.FASFA.gov. Nash Community College’s school code is 008557. Within 7-10 days following the application submission, applicants will receive an email requesting the remaining required information that is needed. Additionally, NCC will email the applicant if anything is incomplete or not received. Students should monitor their NCC issued email account closely to ensure they provide all of the information in the timeframe it is needed. This step is critical as incomplete applications will not be processed.
The Financial Aid process may take 4-6 weeks. Once a student’s application is complete, the college reviews the application and awards Financial Aid if the student qualifies. Again, it is important for students to check their email during this time to know if they have been awarded aid. “Many students are able to pursue their higher educational goals each semester because of Financial Aid,” Mitchell says. “Applicants are urged to be thorough in providing accurate and complete information, and to be diligent in monitoring their email accounts for notifications.”
In addition to federal Financial Aid and direct loans, the college offers endowed and annually donated scholarships. These scholarships are provided by friends of the College, including individuals, businesses, industries, local agencies, clubs, organizations, and the College Foundation. Many of the awards have been established in memory or honor of loved ones. The scholarship application deadline for spring semester is March 15, 2015. To complete the scholarship application online, visit www.nashcc.edu/scholarships. Hard copies are also available. High school students should submit the completed application to your school guidance counselor.
For more information, please call 252-451-8404, email nccfinancialaid@nashcc.edu or visit www.nashcc.edu/financialaid.
