How to apply for need-based financial aid for academic year 2012-13

The following process ensures that Catlin Gabel’s financial aid committee tracks, reviews, and awards grants equitably and efficiently. The committee will consider only those applications that are complete and filed on time. We urge you to fully disclose your financial situation to avoid delay in reviewing your application. Families with complicated or unusual financial situations may be asked to provide supplemental information or to meet with an admission staff member.

Step 1 (required): Complete the School and Student Services (SSS) Parent Financial Statement (PFS) online.

Deadline: February 10, 2012

• Applications begin on November 1, 2011, for the 2012-13 enrollment year.
• You will need Catlin Gabel's school code: 2230.
• Complete only one PFS per household even if you have several children applying for financial aid.
• You will be given a password that will allow you to return to your PFS at a later date prior to submitting it.
• If you are a returning family or have applied previously, some of your information will automatically populate in the form.
• Be sure to explain all circled items in the PFS.
• The cost of the PFS is $37.
• Your information is secure and confidential.
• Please note: For two-household families, both parents are required to complete a PFS even if only one parent contributes to tuition.

Step 2:  (If you are self-employed or own a farm): Complete and upload the Business or Farm Statement to SSS.

Deadline: February 10, 2012, with your PFS

Step 3 (optional): Personal Statement

Deadline:  February 10, 2012, with your PFS

Submit a brief personal statement in the comments section of the PFS explaining any special circumstances or information not otherwise reflected in the PFS about why your family is applying for financial aid. You may also choose to submit your personal statement in a letter directly to Sara Nordhoff or Mary Yacob. 

Step 4 (required): Submit completed 2011 tax documents

Deadline: March 1, 2012

Please include W-2 and/or 1099 statements and the 1040 form with all applicable schedules, by one of the following methods.

• Preferred method: Upload required documents directly to SSS, which enables you to track the status of your application online.  Instructions can be found under "Manage my documents" in the PFS Online Workbook .
• Drop off in Toad Hall, attn: Mary Yacob, financial aid office.
• Please note: Electronic signatures via Turbo Tax or other tax software are acceptable.
• If necessary, you may send your tax documents to SSS by mail:

Financial aid award letters will be mailed out by March 16, 2012

Helpful Links

PFS Online Workbook

National Association of Independent Schools Family Guide to Financial Aid

Financial Aid Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Family Contribution Calculator