Making College Affordable

Project Launch helps RAW Seniors and their families secure millions in scholarships and grants each year by providing expert FAFSA guidance, financial literacy education, and targeted scholarship support. We make navigating the college funding process simple and stress-free, ensuring that higher education is truly achievable and affordable for every student.

FINANCIAL AID

FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s the main form students fill out to apply for federal aid like Pell Grants and Direct Loans. Most colleges also use FAFSA to figure out scholarship eligibility.

The CSS Profile is a separate financial aid form used by some colleges. Unlike FAFSA, the CSS Profile may have a fee, though fee waivers are available based on family income once you start the application.

The MASFA lets Massachusetts high school graduates, including undocumented students, apply for in‑state tuition and state financial aid even if they can’t complete the FAFSA.

Federal Deadlines: FAFSA and CSS Profile open October 1 each year. Filling them out early can help you get your award letters faster and maximize your aid.

State Deadlines: The Massachusetts Grant has a deadline of May 1st to qualify for funds such as the MassGrant.

College Deadlines: Each school sets its own deadline. Check your college’s financial aid website or ask the financial aid office if the deadline is based on when your FAFSA is received or processed.

TRIO ETS (Educational Talent Search): If you’re part of TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) in the Lynn Public Schools, you can meet with your ETS Advisor for guidance on FAFSA and other financial aid options.