Creating your college financial plan can feel overwhelming, especially with all the FAFSA myths floating around. You’ve probably heard that applying is too complicated, that you won’t qualify for aid, or that it’s not worth the effort, but those rumors couldn’t be further from the truth. Each year, millions of dollars in financial aid go unclaimed simply because students skip the FAFSA. At Anna Maria, we want to make sure you don’t miss out on the support you’re eligible for. That’s why our Financial Aid team is here to clear up the confusion, debunk common misconceptions, and help you navigate the process with confidence.
Myth #1: My parents make too much money, so I won’t get anything.
We use FAFSA to help determine eligibility for additional institutional grants and scholarships, even if you don’t qualify for additional Federal support.
Myth #2: Only students with excellent grades get financial aid.
While some grants or scholarships may be merit-based, this is not the case for all financial aid. Need-based scholarships and grants may be available, too, and student loans are available regardless of your high school GPA. This means you do not need to have a perfect GPA to qualify for financial aid.
Myth #3: FAFSA is too complicated.
FAFSA is free, takes less than 30 minutes, and we can help if you get stuck. Start your FAFSA Form here. Include Anna Maria College with code #002117.
Myth #4: I have to take out loans if I file for FAFSA.
Filing FAFSA does NOT mean you have to take out loans. You are just seeing what aid you qualify for. Interest rate too high? Amount offered too high? Don’t worry, you can decline or reduce the offer without consequence.
Myth #5: You cannot appeal a financial aid decision.
If you disagree with an eligibility decision, you can typically contest it by submitting a formal appeal. There are many potential reasons to file an appeal, ranging from a change in finances, financial hardship or even a personal emergency. If you are not sure where to start with filing an appeal, check with our Financial Aid Office.
Myth #6: Anna Maria will still be too expensive.
Our financial aid offer begins with the Merit Scholarship ranging from $23,000 to $28,500 per year. This, along with additional federal and institutional aid for which you qualify through the FAFSA, makes our costs similar to state institutions. Our dedicated team is also ready to help create payment plans and assist in applying for additional student loans to cover your balance in full. Plus, you will receive a $500 grant just for submitting your FAFSA!
Connect with our Financial Aid team if you have any questions.
