This study explored the challenges minority students face in obtaining and understanding information when trying to apply for financial aid. One-to-one interviews, a focus group, and a review of documents were sources of data for the study. Themes emerging from the investigation were accessibility to financial aid information, dissemination of financial aid information, navigating the financial aid process, addressing institutional barriers to financial aid, and increase collaboration between high school and colleges/universities. Findings from the study included a need for earlier information to assist in navigating the financial aid process and a need for increased parental access to information. Recommendations for research include expanding the study to include quantitative research on the challenges facing minority students who apply for financial aid. Further research may be conducted on the community and non-profit organizations whose mission it is to help families navigate financial aid and college preparation.