Don’t Be Scammed
April 14, 2008 by schev
US News & World Report recently published an article urging students to “look twice at loan offers” to ascertain whether advice is coming from an unbiased source.
We agree, and hope that students will turn to sites, such as this one, that are run by state agencies, non-profits, the US government, or other organizations that have a vested interest in providing unbiased financial aid information. Such entities do not have ulterior motives and are more likely to provide complete, factual information about available student loans or scholarships.
For information on how to avoid scholarship scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission.
This information could be very helpful to students considering taking out loans to pay for college. It is comforting to know that organizations are still attempting to assist students rather than being concerned only with themselves.
The Office of Inspector General with the US Department of Education investigates fraud related to financial aid scams.
You can find out more on their website:
http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oig/misused/index.html
It says FAFSA is going to be your next subject. I have heard the form is complicated and confusing. How do I know it’s worth the time to fill it out.
Applying for any type of financial assistance almost always begins with filling out the FAFSA, so it is well worth the effort! All state aid and many financial aid programs at individual institutions look at your FAFSA data, so you may not be considered for loans, grants, or work-study funding without it.