FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
Website links are available at the bottom of this page.
GCHS will also have two FAFSA HELP SESSIONS with INvestEd:
January 7th from 3-5:30pm in the GCHS Library
April 7th from 2:30-5:30pm in the GCHS Library
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What is the FAFSA?
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Student Aid. It is a FREE form to apply for federal student aid for college or graduate school using tax information and other data to determine a family's eligibility for grants, scholarships, loans, and work study programs.
Does the FAFSA cost anything to file?
NO! The FAFSA is always free to file. Do NOT pay to file this form. If you are asked to pay, you are in the wrong place!
Where do I go to fill out my FAFSA?
Filling out your FAFSA online is the quickest and most convenient option. Click HERE to go to the online application.
What steps do I take?
Step 1: Create an FSA ID - Click HERE! You will need a FSA ID in order to file the FAFSA. The student AND the parent will need to create separate IDs.
Step 2: Gather your income income tax forms from the previous year. These will be filled out in order for you to apply. You may also need: SSNs, records of child report received, current balances of cash/savings/checking accounts, net worth of investments/businesses/farms
Step 3: File your FAFSA
Is there a deadline to apply?
Yes! We encourage you to apply by March 1st, but Indiana's priority deadline for filing the FAFSA each year is April 15th.
How can I get help in filling out the FAFSA?
Filling out your FAFSA is a step by step process. On the site, you are able to use chat features and you can check the FAQ's section as well. Students should make sure they are attending school meetings.
GCHS will also have two help sessions with INvestEd:
January 7th from 3-5:30pm in the GCHS Library
April 7th from 2:30-5:30pm in the GCHS Library
You may also make an appointment with your student's counselor anytime after Christmas break for additional help or questions.
I've filed the FAFSA. Now what?
Wait for your Student Aid Report (SAR) to be returned by email. Check to make sure it is correct and make any necessary corrections. Once you receive your SAR, you will also receive your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This is the amount your family is expected to pay.
What types of financial aid are offered?
GRANTS: Money from the government (federal or state) or your school that does not usually need to be paid back. Most are awarded to students with financial need and many have deadlines you must meet.
LOANS: Money that is borrowed and must be paid back with interest. There are many different types of loans, so you'll want to make sure you understand the ones you decide to take out and use.
WORK STUDY: Money that may be offered to you based on your student aid report, giving you the opportunity to work on your college campus for scholarship money.
SCHOLARSHIPS: Money you do not have to pay back! College/Universities will offer numerous scholarships specific to their school or your area of study.
We have a list of "College Dollars" available on our website - click HERE to view.
Local and Foundation Scholarships are posted on posted on the website - click HERE to view.
FAFSA General Assistance
1-800-433-3243