Submitted by Sunny Wallace, Assistant Director of Financial Aid
If you want to help your students receive as much financial aid as possible, follow the lead of the Bridle Family. They partnered with the Financial Aid Office (FAO) every step of the way to finance their degrees.
When Paul Bridle lost his job due to an injury, he and his family wrestled with their options. They decided to double down on the promise of higher education and both Paul and his wife, Molly, went back to school to complete their bachelor’s degree. They believe they could not have finished their degrees or moved their eldest daughter, Grace, into a Boise State residence hall this fall without the help of the financial aid office. “The highlight (of working with the FAO) was probably just before the beginning of our third semester when we both realized we were going to succeed thanks to Boise State Financial Aid helping connect us to the aid that would make it possible,” Paul said.
Paul recommends that Boise State parents visit with the FAO because “their understanding of all the federal requirements will make the process so much smoother than trying to figure it out on your own. Follow their checklists and deadlines and they’ll do the rest. Also, research all available scholarships and monitor the posting of new ones.”
This fall is the perfect time of the year to check off early financial aid to-do items and ask these questions:
Should our family fill out the FAFSA (the Free Application for Federal Student Aid)? Yes, you must fill out the FAFSA to receive many Boise State scholarships. Your student may still be eligible for university scholarships even if your family has a higher income. The university takes a realistic view of financial need and provides need-based scholarships for students who do not qualify for federal grants.
How do I help my student find more scholarships? The Boise State Scholarship Application is open now through February 15, 2019 for scholarships available in the 19-20 academic year. The sooner students fill out the scholarship application and a FAFSA, the earlier families will know what aid is available next year to support their student.
Call the Financial Aid Office at (208)426-1664:
- Monday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Tuesday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Press #1 to leave your phone number.
We are also available for walk-in advice and appointments in the FAO, 1st floor of the Administration Building, and via email at financialaid@boisestate.edu.