FAFSA & FEDERAL AID
Federal aid starts with one form.
What Is FAFSA?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the gateway to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs that can help make your beauty education affordable. Paul Mitchell The School Salt Lake City participates in federal financial aid programs, and completing the FAFSA is the first step toward accessing funds you may be eligible for — including Pell Grants, which do not need to be repaid. Every student is encouraged to apply, regardless of income level.
Our financial aid team is here to guide you through every step of the process. From gathering your documents to reviewing your award letter, we'll make sure you understand your options and can make the best decision for your future.
Step-by-Step FAFSA Guide
Follow these six steps to complete your FAFSA and unlock your federal financial aid eligibility.
- 01
Create Your FSA ID
Your FSA ID is your username and password for the Federal Student Aid website. You'll use it to sign your FAFSA electronically. Create your FSA ID at studentaid.gov/fsa-id. If you're a dependent student, one parent will also need to create their own FSA ID.
- 02
Gather Your Documents
Before you begin, collect the documents you'll need: your Social Security Number, federal income tax returns (yours and your parents' if dependent), W-2 forms, bank statements, records of untaxed income, and your driver's license or state ID. Having these ready will make the process much smoother.
- 03
Complete the FAFSA at studentaid.gov
Log in to studentaid.gov with your FSA ID and complete the FAFSA form. When asked for a school, search for "Paul Mitchell The School Salt Lake City" (OPE ID: 042234). The form typically takes 30–60 minutes to complete. Submit as early as possible — some aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- 04
Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)
After submitting your FAFSA, you'll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) within 3–5 business days. Review it carefully for accuracy. Your SAR includes your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which schools use to determine your financial need. If you spot any errors, correct them promptly at studentaid.gov.
- 05
Work With Our Financial Aid Office
Our financial aid team will review your FAFSA data and contact you with any additional documentation needed. We'll help you understand your aid package, explain the difference between grants and loans, and answer any questions you have. Don't hesitate to reach out — we're here to help you navigate the process.
- 06
Accept Your Award
Once you receive your financial aid award letter, review each type of aid offered. Accept the grants and scholarships first (free money!), then consider work-study, and finally evaluate any loan options. You are never required to accept all aid offered. Our team can help you decide what makes sense for your situation.
Deadlines Matter
The FAFSA opens October 1st each year for the following academic year. Apply as early as possible — many state and institutional aid programs have limited funds and award on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't wait until enrollment to start your application.
Types of Federal Aid
Federal Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year, no repayment required), Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal Work-Study programs may all be available to eligible students.
Need Help?
Our financial aid team is available Monday–Friday to answer your questions. Call us at (801) 747-5000 or stop by campus at 4670 Holladay Blvd, Holladay UT 84117. We're committed to helping every student find a path to funding their education.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Your beauty career is closer than you think.