How the Process Works

Applying for financial aid can be fast and easy! Just follow these simple steps and you’re on your way.

1. The process begins with applying to schools for admission. You do not have to have your mind made up. You can apply to more than one school. Often, a school will only consider you for financial aid if you applied for and paid an admission fee. It is important for you to be aware of this and complete all the necessary requirements for admission.
2. Next it is time to complete a FAFSA. FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is the basic application for federal and state financial aid. You can list up to 10 schools on the application.
3. After submitting a FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) that summarizes the information you provided. Review this document for accuracy to make sure you didn’t make any errors. It’s also a good idea to follow up with the financial aid offices to make sure they got your FAFSA information.
4. Each school you list on the FAFSA will receive your information and use it to create an award letter. This award letter indicates the types of aid for which you qualify. Remember, award letters come from the individual schools and will vary. 
5. Review your award letters and decide whether you will accept or decline the school's offer. 
6. If accepting a loan, return the information to your school.
7. You will be instructed to complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) for the federal loans you accept. This is your promise to repay the loan. Your MPN may be signed online using your PIN.
8. If you are a first-time borrower, you must attend onsite entrance loan counseling or complete the online session at www.mappingyourfuture.org. 
9. If you need additional funding to cover school costs you may consider applying for PLUS or alternative loans.
10. Once the process is complete, the funds will be sent to your school.