BUT, do not rely on that - it is better to request information early, giving yourself enough time to complete a strong application. With the high cost of college today, many families need to know as early as possible what financial aid they might receive. With the regular financial aid process, aid offers are not available until April or even later. Many colleges are now offering 'early financial aid estimates' to students and families. These estimates are often provided in the fall, before financial aid forms are completed by the family.
Families complete simple financial data forms based on numbers from their last tax return.
The college uses this data to 'rough out' a possible financial aid package. These early estimates are not a guarantee of aid but do provide a reasonable idea of what a family can expect. Students and families seeking early estimates should contact the college financial aid office. Some colleges provide early estimates during a student's junior year in high school, or even earlier. Applications should always be written to provide the reader with what they want to see.