You have to understand your status and don't assume that you can't get aid because of a conviction.
well I'm on parole at the moment, so am I eligible for help?
You may be eligible for federal student aid. However, if you were convicted of a drug-related offense or if you are subject to an involuntary civil commitment for a sexual offense, your eligibility may be limited.
does it matter if I was already getting financial aid when I got arrested?
Yes, your eligibility might be suspended if the offense occurred while you were receiving federal student aid
and I read that I might be able to regain my financial aid if I take certain steps, is that true?
Yes, If you had a drug conviction, you can regain eligibility early by successfully completing an approved drug rehabilitation program or by passing two unannounced drug tests administered by an approved drug rehabilitation program. If you regain eligibility during the award year, notify your financial aid office immediately so you can get any aid you’re eligible for.
could we get financial aid while still on the inside?
You have limited eligibility for federal student aid while incarcerated.
Was your incarceration for a drug-related offense or are you subject to an involuntary civil commitment for a sexual offense?