High schoolers can't apply for federal or state aid until January of their senior year. Prior to that they should focus on researching what types of aid are available from what sources and how to go about qualifying for the aid.
Some schools will make an early estimate (prior to January) of a student's aid eligibility. If that is the case, the school will have special procedures that must be followed to make that determination.
All students should start their search for available scholarships up to a year before they intend to enroll in college. This will allow ample time to identify those scholarships for which they might qualify, complete essays and secure letters of recommendation. Many scholarships have deadlines as early as January 31, so plan accordingly.
