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Steps to Financial Aid

 

	Although it might seem daunting at first, applying for financial aid, like applying to college, doesn't have to be hard. It just takes a little planning and organization. Here's the general process:
	Apply early Don't wait until you get a college acceptance letter to apply for aid, or most grants and scholarships may be gone. Check with the Admissions Office for deadlines.
	Figure out what forms you need to complete. Most colleges require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for federal and state aid. Some colleges have their own institutional forms, in addition to the FAFSA.
	Keep on track of deadlines and details Missing a financial aid deadline can jeopardize your eligibility. Save time by gathering all of the financial records you'll need (from income tax returns to mortgage information) before you and your family dive into your forms.
	Consider completing federal income tax returns first Income information that you report on your tax returns (IRS forms 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ) is used on financial aid applications. While you don't have to file your return before you complete your applications, it will be much easier and faster to finish if you have at least completed a rough draft of your tax return.
	Describe any unusual circumstances that might affect your family's ability to pay for college If you believe that there are circumstances that aren't reflected on the financial aid forms, contact the college financial aid office directly.
	Complete all forms accurately, completely, and legibly Inaccurate, incorrect, or missing information can cause delays in processing your applications.
	Provide all the information requested on the forms For instance, if your answer is zero, enter a zero. Don't just leave the question blank. This will speed review of your application.
	Be consistent on all forms Use the same name on all financial aid forms. In order to complete your file and assess your eligibility, colleges and the federal government will need to match up your records from several sources. Inconsistencies will slow the process.
	Keep copies of each form Whether you're completing the application on paper or online, keep a copy of each form for your records. You may need to refer to a particular form if the college asks for additional information.
	Follow through After you submit your forms, sort carefully through any financial aid material you receive in the mail, such as confirmations or requests for additional information. If additional information is needed, send it as soon as possible. If you find errors, address them quickly. When it comes to applying for aid, time is money. As deadlines near, be sure to contact the office to confirm that your information has been received. Access to financial aid at some schools may be dependent on meeting various deadlines.
	Apply for financial aid every year This is important whether you want to renew previous aid or try again to qualify. Even if you don't qualify one year, there is a chance you will the next, either because of increased tuition and fees or changed family circumstances, such as divorce or a sibling beginning college. Keep in mind that some schools may require that you apply for financial aid at the same time you apply for admission in order to be considered for institutional funds. At an institution with such a policy, you still may apply for federal and state assistance each year.
	Get the Student Involved Parents should actively encourage student involvement in the financial aid process. A student's understanding of how their educational costs will affect the entire family's finances will allow families to make decisions together. Students also need to take responsibility for completing forms and insuring deadlines are met. Schools often contact the student directly during the school year. Failure to respond to certain requests can result in delay of funds and/or cancellation of certain awards.

 

Student Responsibilities

Visit the Office of Financial Aid
You should check with the Financial Aid Office at least once per semester regarding the status of your aid, needed documents or whenever you have questions about your aid.

You are responsible for your student account
Plan on checking with the Student Account's Office several times a year to review your account. Your class schedule may be canceled or you may not be able to register or adjust your class schedule if you have financial holds on your account.

Meet all deadlines
Watch for important filing deadlines and complete all the necessary financial aid forms on time.

You need to keep track of your mail/email and read the information sent to you
Important documents are sent to your permanent address. Make arrangements so that you will receive any mail sent home while you are on campus. Make sure your permanent and local addresses are listed with Student Accounts and are correct, so that you receive any mail sent to you.  Once you are a student, your Roberts email address is also an official means of communication.  Check it often.

Keep copies of everything you send
and receive and bring copies with you to campus in case you need them. You may keep the originals at home.

You will need to arrive on campus with funds for books and miscellaneous expenses
Even if you ultimately expect to receive a refund from the Student Accounts, you might not receive the refund until your loan or TAP funds are posted in your account, which could be later in the semester.

You must meet satisfactory academic progress guidelines to continue to receive financial aid
There are both federal and state guidelines that are detailed in the "Academic Rules and Regulations" publication available in the Registrar's Office. A good rule of thumb to avoid loss of aid due to insufficient academic progress is to register for at least 12 new credits each semester, earn a passing grade for all courses, and maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA. Refer to the student catalog for additional information about academic progress.