How to Apply

Federal Student Aid

Students who wish to apply for federal student aid, including Direct Unsubsidized and PLUS loans, must complete all steps listed on the pdfApplication Quick Reference.

Private Student Loans

After selecting a lender, students should complete the following steps:

  1. Contact the lender and complete the loan application.
  2. Complete the pdfPrivate Education Loan Applicant Self-Certification Form.
  3. Contact the Office of Financial Aid for assistance. Be prepared to provide your PELA Self-Certification Form, the loan ID number, and your lender's contact information.

ACOM Scholarships

Students who wish to apply should review the list of pdfScholarship Opportunities and submit complete applications, including all required documentation, to the Office of Financial Aid. Incomplete applications cannot be accepted.

Applications will be forwarded to the Scholarship Committee for review. Official notifications will be sent to students during late spring.

Outside Scholarships & Grants

Generally, students who wish to apply for scholarships or grants provided by an outside source must apply directly with the source. In some instances, the school must certify student enrollment to the aid provider. If the award you are applying for requires school certification, please contact the Office of Financial Aid for assistance.

Once you have been approved for an outside scholarship or grant, you are required to submit the pdfScholarship Reporting Form along with documenation of your award to the Office of Financial Aid. This reporting requirement is enforced by federal regulation. Failure to follow this directive may result in cancellation or reduction of your award(s).

Students are encouraged to review ACOM's list of pdfScholarship Opportunities and to conduct their own searches as well.