Applying for Financial Aid

STEP 1: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

This form is used by virtually all colleges, universities and career schools for the awarding of federal student aid and most state and college aid.  The official FAFSA is at www.FAFSA.ed.gov, and there are three ways to complete a FAFSA:

• Online (FAFSA on the Web) at www.fafsa.ed.gov
• PDF FAFSA (download file) at www.studentaid.ed.gov/PDFfafsa
• Paper FAFSA (request a copy by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID)

Applying online is generally faster and easier because FAFSA on the Web has built-in help to guide you through the application process, it guides you to answer key questions and may allow you to skip other questions and complete the application faster, and the schools you list on your application will receive your processed information faster.

STEP 2: Review the Student Aid Report

You will receive a Student Aid Report from the U.S. Department of Education after you complete the FAFSA. Review this report, to insure the information is accurate. If necessary, follow the instructions to make corrections.

STEP 3: Submit Paperwork as Requested by the Financial Aid Office

The financial aid office will request any needed paperwork including signed copies of tax returns (used for the FAFSA filing) and a verification worksheet. Occasionally, other documents may be required for verification purposes. The financial aid office will contact you to request these documents, if needed.

STEP 4: Review your Financial Aid Award Notification

You will receive an award notification (letter or email), which will show your estimated aid and costs of attending the school. You should sign and return the award letter, in order to accept the financial aid awarded. Be sure you understand the conditions of the awards you accept. Contact the Financial Aid Office if you have any questions or concerns.

STEP 5: Complete the Federal Student Loan MPN (Master Promissory Note)

If you are accepting student loans, be sure to follow the school’s instructions to complete the Entrance Interview and required MPN.

STEP 6: Inform the Financial Aid Office about Additional Financial Aid Received

As soon as possible, let the financial aid office know if you receive an award or financial aid from any other source, such as a scholarship not directly associated with the school. A change in your resources may affect your financial aid.

 

Remember! You have to reapply for financial aid each year which also means completing the FAFSA each year you apply for financial aid.