For Parents & Family
Getting Started
If you’re just beginning the research process about what types of financial aid is available to you, we’ll step you through some basics on this page. If you have any questions, please contact us. The financial aid application process at Bellevue College begins with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid is based on the EFC (Expected Family Contribution) and calculated by the Department of Education. Review the steps for applying.
Completing the FAFSA
If your student will be claimed as your dependent during the year he or she plans to attend college, you’ll be required to complete a parent portion of the FAFSA. You can get a head start by familiarizing yourself with the documents required for the FAFSA.
Check out the Seven Easy Steps to FAFSA: Online Tutorial.
Encourage Your Student to File Online
Completing the online application is quick and secure. The online form is especially convenient for parents and students that are not living at the same state or country. It’ll allow both of you to complete and sign the application quickly and without the hassle of having to mail the application back and forth.
Get a PIN
When filing the FAFSA online, both you and your son or daughter will have to apply for your own PIN. The PIN is considered your electronic signature and is valid as your actual signature. You only need to apply once for the PIN, and you are able to use it for more than one of your children. Apply for a PIN now.
Viewing your Student's Financial Aid Status
In order to discuss specific information regarding your student's financial aid, your son or daughter will need to complete a form waiving their rights under the Family Education Act (FERPA) guidelines set by the United States Congress in 1974. This waiver is included in the BC Financial Aid application, however the form is available on its own in our Financial Aid Forms Library. Learn more about FERPA.
About Parent PLUS Loans
Parent PLUS Loans are a frequent point of confusion in the financial aid process. Please review these details if you have any questions regarding the loan as well as visiting our Types of Aid page.
Estimating Costs
If you’re not ready to apply for admissions, but you want to get a rough estimate on what type of aid is available to you, this free, online tool is provided by the Department of Education.
