Pay for College
Making Your HBCU Dream a Reality
We believe that every student with the desire to attend an HBCU should have the knowledge and support to do so. Paying for college can seem like a major obstacle, but it doesn't have to be. HBCU Harvest is here to guide you and your family through the financial aid process, demystifying the options and helping you find the funds you need.
Understanding Financial Aid
Navigating financial aid is a key step. Here's what you need to know about the different types of aid available.
The Foundation The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the single most important document you'll fill out.
Scholarships are funds that you don't have to pay back.
Grants are a form of gift aid that does not need to be repaid. They are typically awarded by the federal government or state and are based on financial need.
Student loans are borrowed funds that you must pay back with interest.
FAFSA Application
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is not just a form; it is your gateway to virtually all college financial aid. Completing it is the first critical step toward securing your educational legacy at an HBCU. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and loans.
The FAFSA Clock
Why Filing Early is Your Single Most Important Financial Step
Why the Rush? Funding is First-Come, First-Served
Many students assume they have until the final deadline, but that is a costly mistake. The most valuable, limited-resource aid is awarded on a rolling basis, meaning it's first-come, first-served.
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Limited Campus Funds: Key funds, such as the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) and institutional grants from colleges like Hampton and Grambling State, are finite. When the money runs out, it's gone, regardless of your need. Filing early ensures your application is in the priority pool for these awards.
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State Deadlines: Many states have their own deadlines for state-specific grants that are much earlier than the federal deadline. Missing these can cost you thousands of dollars in free aid.
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Maximum Aid: An early application ensures that your financial aid package is processed promptly, giving you the best chance to receive the maximum amount of grants, federal student loans, and work-study available to you.
Action Step: As soon as the FAFSA opens in October, file it immediately. Don't wait for acceptance letters; file with the schools you are considering. This single action is the most powerful tool you have to make attending your dream HBCU affordable.
Who Should Complete the FAFSA Form?
All Students, regardless of financial circumstances, should apply for federal, state, and financial aid programs. These include grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans to help with education costs. Utilize these resources to secure the support needed for your academic goals!
Time Commitment
Filling out the FAFSA form takes roughly 30 minutes, which includes the required documents. This swift process can open the door to financial aid for your education!
What You Need
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Verified account username and password (FSA ID)
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Parent or spouse contributor’s email address
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Parent or spouse contributor’s name, date of birth, and Social Security number (for the 2025–26 FAFSA form only)
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Income and asset information (if required)
FAFSA Resources
For FREE text support text 'Hello' to 469-940-5412. UAspire FAFSA support will respond to you within 24 hours on weekdays. Depending on the nature of your question, you may get an answer via text message, or you may be asked to schedule a Zoom.