Going to College

Financial aid is money to help pay for college or career school. Aid can come from: the U.S. federal government, your state, the college you attend, and/or a nonprofit or private organization.

1. Be a U.S. Citizen or Eligible Noncitizen

2. Have a Valid Social Security Number

3. Be Accepted for Enrollment to an Eligible Degree or Certificate Program

4. Be Registered for the Selective Service*

5. Qualify to Obtain a College or Career School Education*

6. Be enrolled in school at least half time, but doesn’t have to be full time

Your eligibility for federal student aid can be affected by incarceration and/or the type of conviction that you have. In most cases, having a conviction doesn’t affect your eligibility for financial aid. If you have a drug related conviction, it probably doesn’t affect your eligibility but if you have a sex offence conviction, it might. Click on the "Criminal Convictions & Financial Aid" button to learn more about the impact of incarceration and/or the type of conviction on your eligibility for federal student aid.