AFS utilizes the online service of Financial Aid for School Tuition (FAST) to process applications. FAST is the standard submission format for all AFS need-based aid applications.

FAST does not decide whether financial assistance will be given or how much to give; rather FAST provides a need-based financial aid analysis service which includes a recommendation of what a family should reasonably contribute toward tuition. All information from FAST is kept confidential. Results are reviewed by the AFS Financial Aid Committee on a weekly basis.

To start the process, please do the following (note that you must submit your preliminary application and scholarship application cover sheet before taking this step):

• Click on the “FAST” button to the right
• The application process is self-guided. You may navigate in and out of the program allowing you to partially complete an application and go back to it at another time. The application takes an average of 45 minutes to complete, and it is helpful if you have your most recent taxes handy.
• Online e-mail and a 24/7 helpline is provided by FAST, who can be reached at 1-877-326-FAST. Please do not call AFS with questions.
• The charge for the application is $34.00 and can be paid by credit card at the end of the session. If you do not have a credit card or cannot budget the fee, please see our fee waiver policy.
• After completing the FAST application you will be required to mail FAST your tax documentation. The required documents are:
  
  
  
  1. 2007 Federal Forms
     
  2. State Tax Forms
     
  3. W-2’s
     
  4. All appropriate schedules (for personal business, property, etc.)
     

Please mail your forms to:
FAST Processing
ISM
1316 North Union Street
Wilmington DE 19806-2594

For quicker processing, please put “AFS” on the front of the envelope under your return address.

Faxed tax forms will not be accepted. However, you may scan and pdf to Rochelle@isminc.com.

In 2009, we will require 2008 tax forms after February 15. Please make your tax appointment early.

• Once your FAST application (including tax documentation) is complete and AFS has received your merit scholarship application forms, if applicable, we will contact your family with an award decision within one week.

Financial Assistance Policy

While the availability of school resources, the number of qualified applicants, and overall budgetary constraints influence financial assistance decisions, AFS is committed to making awards available to as many eligible applicants as possible. In an effort to make the process fair to all, AFS considers the following when making award decisions:

• The primary responsibility for financing a student’s education rests with the family.
• The family is expected to contribute a minimum of $900 toward the student’s AFS program.
• Both parents are expected to contribute to tuition.
• In the case of divorce or separation, AFS strongly encourages both parents to file an application for financial assistance.
• AFS believes a family should invest in their child’s education before elective expenses, for example, secondary home ownership, club memberships, and expensive car leases/purchases.

• Global Leaders Scholarship main page

• Global Leaders Scholarship FAQ