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It’s never too early to start thinking about financial aid! Starting on October 1, Future Roadrunners can apply for the FAFSA (U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens) or the TASFA (Dreamers and certain international students) for Fall 2021.

Applying for financial aid can help tremendously with making college more affordable and accessible. Read on for the different types of financial aid and for helpful tips when you apply.

FAFSA

U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens will apply for the FAFSA on fafsa.gov.edu or by using the MyStudentAid App on a smartphone (UTSA’s FAFSA code is 010115.) After you complete the FAFSA, you’ll receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) which lists your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This amount will give you an estimate of what your out-of-pocket expenses will look like after you subtract what you receive in financial aid from the cost of attending UTSA.

TASFA

If you are a non-citizen, Texas resident, (including Dreamers and certain international students) you will complete and submit the TASFA to UTSA in order to be considered for state financial aid. Visit the One Stop TASFA website for more information on completing your TASFA. At UTSA, Dreamers also have access to the Dreamers Resource Center which provides resources and support for Dreamers and students with mixed-status families.

Types of Financial Aid You Can Receive

Free Money

Grants and scholarships are funds that you don’t have to pay back—it’s basically like free money!

  • Pro-Tip: File your FAFSA or TASFA by the UTSA priority deadline on January 15. There are typically more aid options available if you apply by the priority deadline.
Money You Pay Back

Student loans can come from either the federal government or a private source like a bank.

  • Pro-Tip: Federal loans usually offer lower rates and are more flexible, so opt for them first if you need additional funds for college.
Money You Earn

Work-study is an employment opportunity for students who demonstrate financial need. Unlike other financial aid awards, work-study is paid out in the form of a paycheck. You can find and apply for a work-study job through Handshake, the UTSA Career Center’s job bank.

  • Pro-Tip: If you want to be considered for this program, you must indicate so on your FAFSA.

UTSA is one of the most affordable Texas public universities in a major metropolitan area and 69% of its undergraduate students receive financial aid. If you have more questions about financial aid, don’t hesitate to contact your area’s admissions counselor or sign up for a financial aid workshop at UTSA Day on Saturday, October 10.