In order to be eligible for most federal financial aid programs, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• have financial need, except for some loan programs.
• have a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) Certificate, pass a test approved by the U.S. Department of Education, or meet other standards established by your state and approved by the U.S. Department of Education. (Students who have been home schooled should contact the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships for guidance.)
• be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student working towards a degree or certificate in an eligible program.
• be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
• have a valid Social Security Number.
• make satisfactory academic progress.
• sign a statement of educational purpose and a certification statement indicating that you are not in default on a student loan nor owe an overpayment on a grant. Both statements are found on the FAFSA.
• register with the Selective Service, if required. You can register online at the Selective Service System's web site.
• never been convicted under a federal or state law of the sale or possession of illegal drugs. A drug-related conviction does not necessarily make a student ineligible for aid. A student with a prior drug-related conviction must complete a worksheet to determine if the conviction affects aid eligibility.