To apply, complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  The FAFSA is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.  Be sure to include Rio Hondo College’s school code 001269 so that your FAFSA information is sent to us electronically by the Department of Education. 

Also, in order for us to receive your information, be sure that your social security number is correct when completing the FAFSA and that it matches the social security number you provided on your enrollment application to Rio Hondo College.   Separate applications are needed for scholarships and student loans.

The ideal time to apply is between January 1 and March 2 to assure your application is processed in time for fall and that all available aid is offered to you.  The priority deadline to apply is March 2; however, you can still apply after this date.  Remember, the longer you take to apply, the longer you will have to wait to be processed, and some awards are offered only on a first-come, first-serve basis.

If you need help in filling out your FAFSA application, call our office (562) 463-7584 to set up an appointment.  Please bring the items listed on the Document Checklist when you come for your appointment.
 

Application Process 

1. Complete and submit the FAFSA

2. School receives information:
   The information you provided will be received electronically by the schools you listed on the application.

3. Student is notified:

• If you submitted the FAFSA on the Web, you will receive an Electronic Student Aid Report (ESAR) within 7-10 days.

4. School may request additional information:
   You will receive a document tracking letter or email from Rio Hondo Financial Aid Office notifying you of the required forms needed to process your file.

5. Student submits documents:
   You should submit all documents as promptly as possible. The documents must be complete, legible and accurate.  PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.  You must provide  the Office with copies and retain the originals for your file. Documents will not be copied or returned once submitted to the Financial Aid Office.

6. Application review:
   The Financial Aid Office will evaluate your eligibility once you have submitted all required documents and your file is complete. At any given time in the application review process, the Office may ask you to submit additional information.

7. Financial Aid Notification Letter:
   Once your file is complete, a Notification Letter (Award Letter) will be mailed to you indicating your eligibility at Rio Hondo College.  Your award letter should be mailed 3 – 4 weeks from your file complete date.

Be sure to read all materials sent with your Notification Letter. All initial letters are printed assuming full-time enrollment (12 units or more).  If you enroll less than full-time, your financial aid award will be revised and a new letter sent to your for your records.