Since athletic scholarships are offered to athletes directly from the school, you don't necessarily need to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA form, to receive them. Some schools, such as UCLA, do require a student who is receiving a scholarship to fill out their FAFSA so it's always best to check with your potential future coach or the school's financial aid department if you know that you're being scouted.

A Scholarship Doesn't Pay for Everything

You should fill out and submit a FAFSA so your school can issue your financial aid. Filling out the FAFSA may work to your advantage since you may qualify for more financial aid than you thought. It also may work to the school's advantage because if you qualify for more financial aid and don't need all of the funds included in the scholarship, the school may be able to keep some of the scholarship money. Even if you have a full scholarship, it only covers the cost of tuition, some fees, room, board and your books. You'll still have to pay for your student fees, parking, snacks, late fees or a single room in your dorm.

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