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Financial Aid and Scholarships - College and Postsecondary Options

Funding your education requires being informed and aware of all resources.

Financial Aid

Learn about the different Types of Financial Aid from the U.S. Department of Education:

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has information on Paying for College. They also have an online tool to compare college costs and financial aid offers to see how they might impact you down the road.

The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators has tip sheets to help unique student populations successfully navigate the financial aid process and access higher education.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is scheduled to open in December 2023 for the Fall of 2024. Most colleges require that the FAFSA be completed by March 1 to receive the maximum financial aid possible starting in fall of 2024. Some schools have even earlier priority deadlines. Check the college’s financial aid office website for deadlines and specific forms to complete. Parents and students should start by creating an FSA ID.

Virginia Alternative State Aid Application

This funding opportunity is available for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA.
 

Which financial aid option is right for you?

There are several College Access Fairfax recordings, virtual workshops, and resources available for viewing at the College Access Fairfax website. College Access Fairfax’s Financial Aid Champions also provide help completing the financial aid forms.

Request an Appointment with College Access Fairfax

College Access Fairfax website

Families can also contact their high school's college and career specialist or school counselor if they need additional help.

College Board College Scholarship Service (CSS)

The College Board College Scholarship Service (CSS) is an online application for nonfederal student financial aid. It is used by hundreds of colleges and institutions. Applications open on October 1 each year. What is the CSS Profile?

Scholarships

FCPS posts hundreds of scholarships in Naviance Student each year.

How to Find Scholarship and Enrichment Opportunities in Naviance Student

Related Pages

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Parent Advocacy Handbook: Thinking Beyond High School

A goal of FCPS’ Portrait of a Graduate is to provide opportunities for emerging adults to learn skills to be successful after high school. Parents can help their student develop these skills by working with teachers and school staff. The Parent Advocacy Handbook explains how to help your student.
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Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) Resources

Information about resources and workshops to help you complete the FAFSA®.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Committee

Provides recommendations to the local educational agency (or board) on current job needs and the relevancy of career and technical education programs.

School Board Liaison: Kyle McDaniel
Staff Liaison: Whitney Ketchledge, Coordinator, Career and Technical Education, Department of Instructional…
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Events for College and Career Planning

Details about FCPS College Events 
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Parent Advocacy Handbook: High School Grades 9-12

High school is a time of academic and career choices for teens. They must decide whether to take regular, Honors, Academy, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate courses.