Myths vs Facts

Reality: It is always best to apply early, but if you’ve missed the ACC priority date, you still have time to apply! If you have already paid for your classes, once your financial aid has been processed you can potentially receive a reimbursed amount based on your eligibility. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can plan your college expenses and keep your educational goals on track.

Reality: Income is not the only factor considered for financial aid. Details like family size and other allowances are also considered. Complete the FAFSA to check your eligibility.

Example Scenarios: All students below have the same family income but have different family situations: family size and other factors.

• Hendricks: Filled out his FAFSA and found out he would qualify for the Pell Grant.
• Maria: Filled out her FAFSA and found out she would not qualify for the Pell Grant, but would qualify for the Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG). Maria met the priority deadline and was able to receive other limited state grants that ACC offers.
• Denise: Filled out the FAFSA and found out she would only qualify for student loans. Denise also applied for ACC scholarships and was awarded the T-STEM Scholarship.

Reality: Even if you’ve applied for financial aid and don’t qualify for any grant funding, you can still apply for scholarships! The ACC Foundation administers numerous scholarships for ACC students based on GPA, financial need, family status, educational background, and/or academic major.

Reality: You do not need to enroll full-time to receive financial aid but some financial aid awards may be reduced for students enrolled in fewer than 12 credits per semester. Each student’s financial aid eligibility is different, so it is important to talk to the financial aid office about your awards.

Reality: Your parents’ citizenship status does not affect your eligibility for financial aid. If you are a U.S. Citizen or Eligible Non-Citizen, you may still fill out the FAFSA. Dependent students are still required to provide parental information.

Reality: Although you are not eligible for federal aid, you may still qualify for Texas state grants and other types of financial aid. Follow these instructions to apply for state aid through the Texas Application for Student Financial Aid (TASFA). Funding is limited for state financial aid so completing your application by the priority date is key.

Reality: Many students with these benefits are still eligible for financial aid. You deserve to find out if financial aid can cover additional school expenses.