Kennesaw State University Financial Aid: A Comprehensive Guide

Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Financial Assistance

Getting the funding you need to pursue higher education can be overwhelming. Kennesaw State University (KSU) is here to help with a range of financial aid options designed to make college affordable for students of all backgrounds. Follow this step-by-step guide to navigate the process effortlessly.

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The FAFSA is the key to unlocking federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Complete it by the priority deadline for Georgia residents (February 15) or the federal deadline (June 30) to avoid delays in receiving aid. KSU's Federal School Code: 001543.

2. Submit Required Documents

After submitting the FAFSA, you may be asked to provide additional documentation to verify your eligibility. This could include tax returns, bank statements, or other financial information.

3. Review Your Award Letter

Once KSU processes your FAFSA, you will receive an award letter outlining the types and amounts of financial aid you have been offered. Review this letter carefully and contact the Financial Aid Office if you have any questions.

4. Accept or Decline Aid

After reviewing your award letter, accept or decline the aid you wish to receive. You can do this online through Owl Express.

Financial Aid Types

Grants: These funds do not need to be repaid and are awarded based on financial need.

Scholarships: These awards are based on academic merit, extracurricular activities, or other factors.

Loans: These funds must be repaid after you graduate or leave school.

Work-Study: This program allows you to work part-time to earn money for college expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

Grants:
* Must demonstrate financial need
* Must be enrolled in an eligible program
* Must meet academic progress requirements

Scholarships:
* Meet various criteria set by the scholarship provider
* Can be based on financial need, academic merit, or other factors

Loans:
* Graduate or professional students must have good credit and pass a credit check
* Undergraduate students do not need a credit check but may need a cosigner

Work-Study:
* Must demonstrate financial need
* Must be a current KSU student
* Must maintain satisfactory academic progress

Deadlines and Important Dates

• February 15: Priority deadline for Georgia residents to submit FAFSA
• June 30: Federal deadline to submit FAFSA
• July 1: Deadline to accept or decline financial aid
• August 15: Final deadline to submit documentation for financial aid
• September 1: Financial aid disbursements begin

Additional Resources

Financial Aid Office:
* Phone: 770-499-3050
* Email: [email protected]
* Website: https://finaid.kennesaw.edu

Scholarships:
* Website: https://scholarships.kennesaw.edu
* Email: [email protected]

Work-Study:
* Website: https://finaid.kennesaw.edu/types-of-aid/work-study/
* Email: [email protected]

Conclusion

Securing financial aid for college can seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and resources, you can make it happen. Follow these steps, meet deadlines, and take advantage of all the resources available to you through Kennesaw State University. With financial assistance, you can overcome financial barriers and pursue your educational dreams. Remember, investing in your education is an investment in your future.