Here are some financial aid steps the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency recommends for the year before higher education starts:

August to February
Choose schools and apply for admission.

Learn about aid, deadlines. Get applications, apply.

October to February
Collect tax returns, other records.

January to August
File FAFSA (for state, federal aid) as soon as possible after Jan. 1 and by school deadlines.

February to May
Review student aid package, send acceptance.

May to August
Receive state grant notice.

March to August
Apply for student loans, other loans if needed.