Navigating the complexities of college financing can be a daunting task. Marist Student Financial Services offers a comprehensive suite of financial aid services tailored to meet the unique needs of students and families. This guide provides an in-depth overview of Marist’s financial aid offerings, empowering you to make informed decisions about financing your college education.
Financial Aid at Marist
Marist is committed to providing affordable access to higher education. In 2022-2023, the college awarded over $40 million in financial aid, including:
- $15 million in merit-based scholarships
- $20 million in need-based grants
- $5 million in federal and state loans
Types of Financial Aid
Marist offers a variety of financial aid options to suit different student needs:
Scholarships
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria.
- Need-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students who demonstrate financial need.
Grants
- Federal Pell Grants: Federal grants available to students with exceptional financial need.
- New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): State grants available to eligible New York residents.
- Marist College Grants: Institutional grants funded by Marist to supplement other sources of aid.
Loans
- Federal Direct Loans: Low-interest loans offered by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Private Loans: Loans from private lenders, typically with higher interest rates than federal loans.
Application Process
Applying for financial aid at Marist is a straightforward process:
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): Available at fafsa.gov, this form collects information about your financial situation to determine your eligibility for federal and state aid.
- Submit the Marist College Financial Aid Application: Available online, this form collects additional information necessary for Marist to determine your eligibility for need-based grants and scholarships.
Understanding Your Financial Aid Package
Once you submit your application, Marist will evaluate your financial situation and create a financial aid package tailored to your individual needs. This package may include:
- Scholarships: Grants that do not need to be repaid.
- Grants: Grants that do not need to be repaid.
- Loans: Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest.
It is important to carefully review your financial aid package and understand the terms and conditions of each component.
Managing Your Financial Aid
Marist offers several resources to help you manage your financial aid effectively:
- Financial Aid Counseling: Meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss your financial situation and explore financing options.
- Financial Literacy Workshops: Attend workshops to develop financial skills and budgeting strategies.
- Payment Plans: Choose from a variety of payment plans to spread your tuition costs over the semester.
External Resources
In addition to Marist’s financial aid services, there are several external resources available to assist students with financing:
- National College Access Network: Provides information and resources on college access and affordability.
- College Board: Offers financial aid planning tools and resources.
- Sallie Mae: Provides student loans and other financial services.
Conclusion
Marist Student Financial Services is committed to helping you finance your college education while minimizing your financial burden. By understanding the types of financial aid available, completing the application process, and managing your aid effectively, you can achieve your educational goals without breaking the bank.