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Navigating Financial Aid

by Joanne Sullivan, Dean of Financial Aid
"We’re here to assist and have compiled our best tips to help you navigate the process."

"We’re here to assist and have compiled our best tips to help you navigate the process."

Joanne Sullivan

Hello!

We know financing your education is an important consideration when applying for college.  Â鶹ÊÓƵ is committed to access and affordability with aid packages that meet 100% of a student's demonstrated need.  This past year, for example, we awarded over $42 million in aid and the average financial aid package was over $65,000 with 80% of our students receiving some form of aid. October is a great time to get started on your financial aid application. At Â鶹ÊÓƵ, remember that we require two forms to apply—the CSS Profile for all applicants and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for domestic applicants. 

We understand that families may feel overwhelmed about navigating the financial aid process. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’re here to assist and have compiled our best tips to help you navigate the process. 

Wishing you the best of luck in your college search! 

Joanne Sullivan 

Dean of Financial Aid 

 

  1. Start Early. One of the most important things you can do is to begin the financial aid process as soon as possible. The CSS Profile Free Application opened on October 1st, and Federal Student Aid Application (FAFSA) opens on December 1st.  While you’re waiting for the FAFSA to open, which you’ll need to complete the application.
  2. Keep an Eye on Deadlines. Make sure you know when your financial aid applications are due and set reminders on your calendar to keep track of your submission due dates. You can find our Financial Aid Deadline dates here.
  3. Ask for Help. We know the financial aid process can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Interested in learning more about how you can pay for college? Review our types of financial aid. Wondering what policies might impact your eligibility for aid? Our Policies in Detail page has lots of important information.
  4. Learn More About Costs. If you’re interested in knowing more about your estimated out of pocket expense and finding out if Â鶹ÊÓƵ is a good financial fit, we have 2 great estimator tools to help. When used correctly, these tools can begin to give you a good sense of what to expect.
  5. Stay Informed. Once you’ve submitted your financial aid applications, be sure to regularly check your applicant status portal for updates. Our office will use the portal and email to communicate with you if there’s additional documentation we need to help finalize your financial aid offer.

 


 

Questions about Financial Aid?

We know that families have many questions when it comes to navigating the financial aid process. Contact the Office of Financial Aid directly at finaid@brynmawr.edu for our assistance.

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