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| Home >> Prospective Students >> Pre-law Handbook >> Financing Law School | ||
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| Home >> Prospective Students >> Pre-law Handbook >> Financing Law School | ||
Financing Law School
The first step in applying for financial aid for law school is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available at FSU's financial aid office or from the law schools to which you are applying. The FAFSA is a need analysis tool that asks for information about your income, assets and other financial resources. The information you provide on the financial aid form will be used to compute how much you and your family are expected to contribute toward your legal education.
Many schools also require copies of annual federal tax returns to verify financial information. Some require students to complete a supplemental form to be considered for institutional aid. Once the analysis is completed, the school's financial aid officer can determine your eligibility status for law school expenses.
Financial Aid for Law School: A Preliminary Guide, a brochure published by the Law School Admission Council, is available at FSU's Undergraduate Academic Advising Center and at most law school financial aid offices. Contact the financial aid offices at the law schools to which you apply for complete and individualized information on financing your legal education.
Scholarships, Grants and Fellowships
These awards do not have to be repaid and are given according to need and/or merit. Their availability is quite limited, and they usually are awarded by the law schools themselves.
Loans
Either the law school or private agencies may award educational loans. The federal government funds or guarantees the largest student loan programs. Not all loans are need-based. Some loans will require a credit check. Student loans usually are offered at interest rates lower than consumer loans, and the repayment of principal and interest generally begins after you graduate.
Minority Opportunities
A limited number of scholarships are available for minority applicants. Although all students must assess realistically their admission chances and financial situation, minority applicants should not unnecessarily limit the law schools to which they apply.