How to Apply for Financial Aid

Kalamazoo Valley Community College offers you an affordable education, in part through numerous financial assistance options. When you file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) and request the results to be sent to KVCC, the Financial Aid Office will determine your eligibility for available financial aid. Eligibility is determined on the basis of the FAFSA® and the availability of funds. To apply, follow the steps listed below.

File a KVCC Admissions Application

Your application for financial aid will only be processed once you have been admitted to KVCC, but don't wait to be admitted before submitting the FAFSA®. It is best to apply for admission and financial aid at about the same time. That will speed the process in both cases.

Apply for a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID). (studentaid.gov)

  • The FSA ID is a username and password combination that will access FAFSA®, nslds.gov, and studentloans.gov.
  • The security of your FSA ID is important because it can be used to:
    • Electronically sign federal student aid documents
    • Access your personal records, and
    • Make binding legal obligations.
  • Your FSA ID can be used each year to electronically apply for federal student aid and to access your federal student aid records online.

File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)

  • In order to be considered for federal and state funded student aid (grants, work-study awards, and loans) you must establish eligibility through the FAFSA. The FAFSA application is available on-line here.
  • If you plan on attending KVCC you must request FAFSA® information be sent to KVCC by using KVCC’s school code: 006949
  • To check the status of a submitted FAFSA® you will need your FSA ID number then you can return to FAFSA®
    1. Allow 5-7 days after submission - if you used your FSA ID to sign your application.
    2. Allow 2-3 weeks after submission - if you printed, signed and mailed a signature page.

What if I did not code KVCC on my original application for financial aid?

If you did not code KVCC, you can go back to FAFSA® and add KVCC school code (006949)

To be eligible for Federal Title IV Financial Aid Assistance:

You must have a high school diploma or GED and have the ability to benefit from the education offered.

  • You cannot be currently enrolled in a K-12 school system or be home schooled and enrolled in a postsecondary institution concurrently, and receive financial aid assistance.
  • You cannot receive financial aid at more than one college or university during the same enrollment period.
  • If you are not pursuing a certificate or associate degree program, your federal financial aid will not be disbursed to your account. (Certificate of Achievement and Unclassified Programs are not considered eligible programs for financial aid.)
  • You must notify the Financial Aid Office if you become incarcerated during the academic year.

What happens if my file is chosen for verification?

Don't be concerned! You haven't done anything wrong. The federal government randomly selects students for the verification process. If you receive a Verification Worksheet, you will simply need to complete, sign and return the worksheet to the KVCC Financial Aid Office. Include any requested documents. If additional information is needed, you will be contacted.

What happens if my family's financial situation changes?

If a major change occurs in your family's financial situation, contact the KVCC Financial Aid Office to review your special circumstances.