Students & Families

Students & Families

Helpful financial aid resources for students and families supporting them through the financial aid process.

Financial Aid Resources

Whether you are preparing for college, completing the FAFSA, learning about Louisiana aid programs, or reviewing student loan options, these resources can help you better understand the financial aid process.

What is the FAFSA Application?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as the FAFSA, is the application students complete to apply for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study, and student loans. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA information to determine eligibility for additional aid.

Complete the FAFSA

Who is LOSFA?

The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance, also known as LOSFA, provides students and families with information about Louisiana financial aid programs, college access resources, scholarships, grants, and TOPS.

Visit LOSFA

Types of Financial Aid

Financial aid may come in several forms. Students should review each type carefully so they understand what may need to be earned, accepted, or repaid.

  • Federal Grants: Gift aid that usually does not have to be repaid.
  • Scholarships: Funds awarded based on merit, talent, service, need, or other criteria.
  • Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities for eligible students.
  • Loans: Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest.
  • TOPS: Louisiana's Taylor Opportunity Program for Students scholarship.
View Types of Aid

Loan Simulator

Federal Student Aid’s Loan Simulator can help students and borrowers compare repayment options, estimate monthly payments, and explore repayment strategies for federal student loans.

Use Loan Simulator

FAFSA Help Center

The FAFSA Help Center provides answers to common FAFSA and federal student aid questions, including help with completing the form, account access, eligibility, and troubleshooting.

Get FAFSA Help

Students and families are encouraged to contact the financial aid office at the college or university the student plans to attend for institution-specific questions, deadlines, and requirements.

Financial Aid Toolkit

The Financial Aid Toolkit offers resources, guides, checklists, videos, and outreach materials to help students and families understand the financial aid process.

View Toolkit

Connect with LASFAA!

Louisiana Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators
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