Financial Aid Resources & FAFSA Help
In This Section
Questions? Contact:
BC3 Student Financial Services
724.284.8509
financialaid@bc3.edu
Fax: 724.287.4961
Why the FAFSA Matters
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to unlocking financial aid at BC3. Grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study all start here. Completing your FAFSA early ensures you get the best aid package available.
The FAFSA only takes about 30 minutes to complete — and we’re here to support.
Should have FAFSA, PHEAA info here and a link to scholarships and how to apply.
Step 1: File Your FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your first step to unlock grants, loans, and work-study.
- Where to File: studentaid.gov
- Recommended Deadlines:
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- PA State Grant: May 1
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- FAFSA for Fall 2025 / Spring & Summer 2026: Available December 2024
- What You’ll Need:
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- Your FSA ID (create one at studentaid.gov)
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- 2023 federal tax return and W-2s (for the 2025–2026 FAFSA)
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- Your Social Security number
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- Parent information (if applicable, now called “contributors”)
We're Here to Guide You
Filing for financial aid can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. BC3’s Student Financial Services team is here to guide you through the FAFSA process and connect you with the right resources to make college affordable.
Step 2: Attend a FAFSA Workshop
Need hands-on help? BC3 offers FAFSA workshops throughout the year. Bring:
- Your FSA ID (created at least 4 days before the workshop)
- Tax documents and W-2 forms
- Social Security numbers (student + parents if required)
One-on-One Appointments
BC3’s Financial Aid Advisors are available to answer questions about:
- FAFSA completion
- Grants, loans, and work-study
- Scholarships and special aid circumstances
Schedule an Appointment with a Financial Aid Advisor
Online Resources:
- Studentaid.gov for applications and updates.
- Federal Student Aid YouTube channel for tutorials.
- Stay up to date on everything financial aid with PHEAA's PA Student Aid Guide.
- Use the FSA ID Personal Tracker to secure your FSA ID.
Step 3: Explore Financial Aid Resources
BC3 partners with trusted tools to help you make smart financial decisions:
- Education Planner: Career and college planning advice
- Smart Borrowing: Tips for student loan responsibility
- Mapping Your Future: Budget planning and financial literacy quizzes
- MyMoney.gov: Federal financial education resources
- Troutwood: Digital tools for financial wellness
- The Missing Semester: A student-friendly guide to money management