Filled out FAFSA- now what?

[eaa1537]

So I've completed my FAFSA, but am still pretty confused at the process since I didn't apply for loans or financial aid as an undergrad. My Estimated Expected Family Contribution was 10326. And it said I might be eligible for: Direct Stafford Loan Estimate - $20,500.00. What do these two figures mean?

Also some schools say on their websites that they require the Need Access Application. Do I have to fill this application out on top of filling out the FAFSA? Is there any particular order in which I should have filled out these documents. Or is it basically get them both in ASAP?

Thanks so much!

[upalittletoolate]

Equally curious

[lzyovrachievr]

Your EFC is what you are expected to cover on your own or with your family's help next year. The Stafford Loan is the total amount you can get of Stafford loans next year- subsidized and unsubsidized together I believe- look them up. Was there another amount that the school will grant you each year or does that total to the total cost of attendance?

Yes, the Need Access application is different from the FAFSA. Google it. If a school requires it and the FAFSA, you'll have to do both. From what I understand, schools are more likely to use the Need Access form to help them figure out institutional grant amounts (that come from them), since the FAFSA doesn't require parental information. Get them both in ASAP- or by the deadlines stated by the schools.