Financial aid at Southeastern Louisiana University - How does it work?

Hello, I'm a high school junior considering Southeastern Louisiana University for my higher studies. I've heard they offer pretty decent financial aid packages, but I'm not too sure how it works. Can anyone provide some insight on this? Especially whether it's mostly merit-based or need-based.

Southeastern Louisiana University operates both need-based and merit-based financial aid. The merit-based aid usually comes in the form of scholarships for students who have excelled in some form, whether it be academically, athletically, or in another noteworthy way. Merit scholarships are awarded based on eligibility criteria that often include a high school GPA and/or standardized test scores.

Need-based aid, on the other hand, is provided to students who demonstrate financial need. This is usually evaluated based on information you provide in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which you would need to submit as part of your admissions process. The FAFSA includes details about your family’s income, assets, etc., allowing schools to determine their ability to pay for college.

Following this, if your family's ability to pay (as calculated by the FAFSA through SAI - Student Aid Index) is less than the cost of attending the university, you would likely be eligible for need-based financial aid such as grants, work-study, and loans. They could be federal, state, or university-sponsored.

It's always a good idea to check with the university’s financial aid office to understand the specifics better. They can provide you with information on how to maximize your financial aid package and also on any other available funding opportunities. Also, remember that some financial aid requires a separate application, so stay on top of deadlines and documents required.

For instance, you should apply early and submit all the required documentation - you don't want any technical snafu depriving you of the aid you qualify for!