Glossary

What is financial aid?

Financial aid is money that helps students pay for college or university, including grants, scholarships, student loans and work-study. Grants and scholarships don't have to be repaid; loans do.

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How does financial aid work?

  • Grants: need-based money from governments or schools that you don't repay
  • Scholarships: awards for merit, need or other criteria, from schools and outside groups
  • Loans: money you repay later, usually with interest
  • Work-study: part-time jobs that help pay for school (US)

How Dash helps with financial aid

In the US most aid starts with the FAFSA; in Ontario, with OSAP. Each school's financial aid office then sets its own deadlines and requirements, which vary.

Ask Dash about your school's financial aid office, deadlines or forms, and it answers with official sources. Tell it your aid deadlines and it texts you before each one.

Questions students ask

Do I have to reapply for financial aid every year?

Usually yes. Both the FAFSA and OSAP need a new application for each school year.

Can dropping courses affect my aid?

Yes. Many programs require a minimum course load and satisfactory progress. Ask your financial aid office before you drop.

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