Bridging the Gap Between Cost and Students’ Resources
TCL is one of the most affordable colleges in South Carolina. But there are still all kinds of different financial aid programs available through public, state, federal and private sources, including everything from scholarships and grants to student loans and tuition assistance programs. All it takes is a little research to find out which one, or ones, are right for you.
The goal is to help bridge the gap between the costs of education and student or family resources. If you’re considering TCL, we participate in several financial and state aid programs and have information about other aid as well.
Applying For Financial Assistance
If you’re thinking about getting federal assistance, the first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov
TCL School Code is 009910.
Your FAFSA application is very important. It is the basis for all financial aid options.
The earlier you complete your FAFSA, the faster you will receive information regarding your financial aid options. Kind of like the early bird gets the worm. The TCL Financial Aid office usually receives your FAFSA status back within 10-12 working days, BUT the longer you wait closer to class time, your status could take as much as 5 weeks to process. So don’t delay.
Remember, you’re dealing with complex federal regulations, forms and procedures. So relax, take your time, be sure to fill everything out completely and submit all required forms in a timely manner. Doing all that will also help ensure you get the most assistance possible.
If you need assistance in completing your FAFSA please call 1-800-4-FED-AID (1.800.433.3243). The TCL financial aid staff is available to help with questions.
You are going to need some documents to complete the FAFSA. Have these documents with you as you complete the application. It will make things a lot easier!
- Student’s previous year’s federal income tax forms (1040, 1040A, 1040EZ)
- Parent’s previous year’s federal income tax forms (1040, 1040A, 1040EZ) if you are still a dependant
- Leave and earnings statement for military and their dependents
- Information on child support payments received
- Social Security benefits information
- Separation or divorce decrees
- Proof of other family members in household attending college (e.g. registrar’s certificate of attendance)
Financial Aid Priority Processing Deadlines.
Avoid long lines and last minute completions, complete your financial aid application early.
Spring 2012
- FAFSA Submission Deadline – Nov. 25, 2011
- Financial Aid Application File Completion Deadline – Dec. 2, 2011
- Student Loan Application/Certification Request and Completion Deadline – Dec. 2, 2011
The FAFSA is easy. Take a look at this video for more.
Go to Net Price Calculator