Financial Assistance

Planning, Tools, and Links

As you make your college plans, there are many resources available to help! Please take advantage of the information and resources on this page, and don't forget that we are always here to answer your questions.

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Planning Tools

Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Financial Literacy: Jumpstart.com

The Department of Education provides a general overview of methods for financing a college education in Getting Ready for College Early and at Project Easi.

Iowa Student Loan has provided a Repayment Chart for Federal Loans and Private Loans.  For more customized estimates, use the online Repayment Calculator.

For more information on the federal American Opportunity Tax Credit and other changes enacted by the tax cut bill, call 800.USA.LEARN.

The U.S. Treasury Department's web site has information on U.S. Savings Bonds

Mapping Your Future features information on career planning, choosing a college, and financial aid programs.

The Financial Aid Information Page has a number of calculators which help families estimate their expected family contribution, how much they can afford to borrow, and how much they need to save.

Learn more about a 529 Plan offered by the State of Iowa at the College Savings Iowa website.

Budgeting and Career Planning

Financial Awareness Counseling

Assists students on many different financial topics, including budgeting, saving and successfully managing student loans. Go to studentaid.gov »

Hands-On Banking

An interactive site that teaches money skills such as banking basics, budgeting, credit and more. Go to handsonbanking.org »

www.ICANsucceed.org

This web site will help you look for information on how to finance the rest of your college education or successfully land a job. 

  • How to succeed in college
  • Navigating life on campus
  • Choosing career and interest areas for life after graduation
  • Paying for college
  • Managing your money
  • Additional tools, links and resources

Go to www.ICANsucceed.org »

Repayment Chart for Federal Loans and for Private Loans

Iowa Student Loan has made available the Standard Repayment Plan Chart for federal loans and a Private Loan Repayment Chart, which includes interest only payments and a monthly payment plan based on 240 monthly payments. Go to the Repayment Chart »

Identity Theft

In an ongoing effort to manage your credit, it is increasingly more important that you take steps necessary to protect your identity. Identity theft occurs when someone obtains important personal information, such as your name, address, date of birth, social security number, mother's maiden name, or account numbers to commit fraud or theft. Identity Theft Resources - Iowa Attorney General »

In Iowa, consumers can request one free credit report every 12 months from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. If your identity has been stolen, it will be evident on these reports so we encourage you to request them yearly. To request your free credit report, visit this website or call 877.322.8228. Annual Credit Report »

Helpful Links

Free Application for Federal Student Aid: apply for financial aid online, information, and deadlines. Learn more »

FastWeb: find money for college, expert tips on financial aid, and career information. Learn more »

FinAid: scholarship searches, loans, savings tips, and military aid. Learn more »

The Student Guide: comprehensive resource from the U.S. Department of Education. Learn more »

Mapping Your Future: paying for college and loan counseling. Learn more »

National Student Loan Data System: general information on your federal financial aid history. Learn more »

FSA ID: apply for, verify, or confirm your electronic signature FSA ID. Learn more »

Iowa General Assembly: state issues. Learn more »

The Student Aid Alliance: federal issues. Learn more »

Iowa College Student Aid Commission: scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs for Iowa students. Learn more »

Americorps: community service opportunities. Learn more »

Glossary

  • Financial Assistance Terms
  • Loan Terms