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ToggleIf you want to compete for means-tested federal financial aid, you have probably already begun to prepare the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. After all, according to the U.S. Department of Education, these applications are due on June 30. Your college or university may have earlier filing deadlines, however.
Fortunately, you no longer have to worry about missing out on subsidized loans, grants or work-study funds because of a drug conviction. Unlike in the past, these convictions do not render you ineligible for federal financial aid. Nevertheless, you still must tell DOE officials about your conviction.
The FAFSA asks about convictions
If you have pleaded guilty to a drug-related offense or otherwise have a conviction in your past, you probably have to disclose the matter on your FAFSA. In fact, a section of the form specifically addresses criminal convictions. It is critical to be honest and forthcoming when you are preparing your FAFSA, as providing false or misleading information may lead to potentially serious consequences.
You may have to complete an extra worksheet
When applicants disclose convictions, the FAFSA automatically generates a supplemental worksheet. This worksheet, which should not take too long to complete, asks you to provide additional details about your conviction. Like with the main form, it is vital to provide complete and truthful answers on any supplemental worksheets.
After submitting your completed FAFSA, you should receive a prompt response from the DOE. Ultimately, because the DOE does not consider drug convictions when deciding who is eligible for federal financial aid, the work you put into properly preparing the form is likely to pay off.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
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Practice areas
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Tempe
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Lake Havasu City
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Apache Junction
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Parker