Apply for Financial Assistance

Financial aid application process

Students seeking financial aid must apply each year by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. You may apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov, or the paper version FAFSA form is available from most high school guidance counselors, public libraries, and institutions of higher education, or by contacting the KCAI financial aid office. The KCAI FAFSA code is 002473.

We recommend that you mail the FAFSA by March 15 to receive consideration for all forms of assistance, including KCAI scholarships. Assistance in completing the FAFSA is available from the KCAI financial aid office.

Additional information may be required if there are questions concerning the application or if the application is selected for verification by the Department of Education (a minimum of 30 percent of all applications are selected for verification under law).

The current FAFSA should be on file in the financial aid office prior to July 1.

If verification of FAFSA information is required, a signed copy of your and your parents' prior year federal tax form must be submitted along with a verification worksheet to the KCAI financial aid office for review.

Types of financial aid

Applying for loans-New Students

As you continue through the loan process we recommend that you choose your lender wisely. You can choose from KCAI's preferred lenders (listed within each loan category) or a lender of your choice . You may want to compare the following aspects of lender services when deciding which lender to choose:

  • Ability of lender to service all your loans.
  • Interest rates and terms: Although these are very similar for the federal loan programs, some lenders do offer better terms or discounts.
  • Loan application processes: Can you apply online? Is instant loan approval offered?
  • Repayment plans: some are simple, others complex.
  • Benefits for borrowers who pay on time or make loan payments electronically.
  • Customer service: Can you reach a live operator quickly to check on the status of your loan during hours convenient for you?

Steps to Apply for Federal Stafford/ Federal PLUS/ Private loans

  • Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with the KCAI school code 002473. The FAFSA will determine your eligibility for federal loans.
  • Complete a Stafford Loan Data Sheet and submit it to the financial aid office.
  • View our Preferred Lender List for Federal Stafford/Federal PLUS/Private loans to select a lender.
  • Click on the link of your lender on the Preferred Lender List for Stafford/PLUS/Private loans and complete the online application; be sure to e-sign and follow up with lender for any additional documentation needed for processing.
  • If you are having any difficulties with the online process, call your lender’s toll free phone number to help you with their Web site. They are the “loan experts” and can walk you through the process step-by-step.

Important!

Release and Disclosure: Please remember to sign and return your financial aid release and disclosure form. You may fax the signed form to 816-802-3453, or mail to KCAI Financial Aid Office 4415 Warwick Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64111