Transferring from community college and financial aid?

I'm transferring from a community college to a university next semester. How does this affect my financial aid? Will I need to reapply or is it automatically transferred? Some insight on this would really help!

Financial aid does not automatically transfer from one school to another, so you will indeed need to update your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to reflect this change. Here's a quick guide to help you:

1. Update Your School: Log into your FAFSA and add the school code of the university you're transferring to. This will allow your new school to access your FAFSA information. Remember to also remove the community college's school code if you won't be attended classes there anymore.

2. Check Deadlines: Universities often have their own financial aid deadlines that are different from the federal deadlines. To maximize your aid, make sure to know when those dates are and submit any necessary documents on time.

3. Speak to a Financial Aid Counselor: It's also a good idea to schedule a chat with the financial aid department at your new university. They can provide you with specific information on scholarships, grants, and loans available at the institution.

4. Reevaluate Your Aid: In transferring to a university, your cost of attendance is likely to change. You might need more aid at the university than you received at your community college.

Keep in mind that while federal and state aid typically transfer, scholarships and grants offered directly by your community college most likely won't be available at your new university. However, you might be eligible for new scholarships and grants, so make sure to explore any available opportunities at your new institution. You can usually find these opportunities on the university's financial aid page or by speaking to your financial aid counselor.

Remember that you have to reapply for FAFSA every academic year, so keep this in mind as you plan your transition and future years. Your eligibility for financial aid can change, especially if your family's income or situation changes, so it's important to consistently apply.