English Language Learners

Q: Do I need a Social Security Number (SSN) to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?   
A: Yes. An SSN is necessary to complete the FAFSA form. 

Q: Do my parents need SSNs for me to complete the FAFSA form?
A: No. Since your parents’ citizenship doesn’t affect your ability to complete the FAFSA form, they don’t need SSNs. If your parents don’t have SSNs, they must enter 000-00-0000 when the FAFSA form asks for your parents’ SSNs. If your parents don’t have SSNs, they won’t be able to create FSA IDs and therefore won’t be able to sign your FAFSA form electronically. You’ll have to print out the signature page from the online FAFSA form so that your parents can sign it and mail it to the address indicated.

Q: What is an FSA ID?
A: The FSA ID is a username and password combination you use to log in to U.S. Department of Education (ED) online systems. The FSA ID is your legal signature and shouldn’t be created or used by anyone other than you—not even your parent, your child, a school official, or a loan company representative. You’ll use your FSA ID every year you fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form and the lifetime of your federal student loans. 

Q: How can I determine if I am a dependent or independent student?  
A: Even if you live on your own and financially support yourself, you may still have to include your parents on your FAFSA. Your answers to questions on the FAFSA form will determine whether you are considered a dependent or independent student. Visit https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out/dependency for additional information.

Q: If I cannot complete the FAFSA, are there other types of tuition assistance at Germanna Community College?
A: If you are not eligible to complete the FAFSA, you may apply for the Germanna Guarantee Program (GGP) – Unique Circumstance scholarship. Please contact our Financial Aid Department for details.

Q: What type of payment options are available to pay for my classes?
A: We have several ways to pay for college.