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New Bedford Public Schools

Financial Aid Information

Financial Aid Resources for College Bound Students

(Scholarship oportunities may be found on the Scholarship Opportunities page.)

Applying for financial aid can feel overwhelming. There are many opportunities for New Bedford Public Schools students to receive help with the financial aid process, from in person presentations and work sessions to remote events. If you are not sure where to begin, see your school counselor. The information and resources provided here may be of assistance to families with college bound students as they navigate the financial aid process. Please note, every college has different requirements and deadlines for applying for aid. Be sure to check with each college about the process.

What is the FAFSA?

Completing the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), is necessary to be considered for federal student aid, including federal grants, work-study, loans, etc.  It is free to complete and submit the FAFSA, and doing so provides you with access to financial aid to pay for college or career school.

Many states use your FAFSA information to see if you qualify for state aid, and colleges use it for school aid. Private financial aid providers may also ask for your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid. 

Applying for financial aid can feel overwhelming. There are many opportunities for New Bedford Public Schools students to receive help with the financial aid process, from in person presentations and work sessions to remote events. If you are not sure where to begin, see your school counselor.

What is the MASFA?

Some students may not be eligible to complete a FAFSA, the federal form for student aid. However, Massachusetts offers the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid which enables eligible students to be consider for state aid. Visit the website to learn more, or speak with your school counselor or a college access staff member if you need help!

uAspire Resources

uAspire is a non-profit organization. Its mission is to ensure that financial aid information and resources are provided to all students. The focus is on removing barriers to provide equitable opportunities to pursue post-secondary education. 

Use this link to visit uAspire and access resources, which are available in several languages. If you need help with accessing support for financial aid applications, please see your school counselor or a member of the College Access team in the College & Career Center at New Bedford High School.