Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to reapply for financial aid every year?
Yes, you must apply for financial aid every year. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA  or renewal FAFSA in January.
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How do I submit corrected FAFSA information?
You can submit FAFSA corrections on part 2 of your Student Aid Report (SAR). We will receive the corrected information electronically and notify you if the information changes your financial aid award.

If I receive a scholarship should I report it to the financial aid office?
Yes, if you receive a scholarship from your high school or local community you must report the award information to our office.  Changes to a financial aid award may be necessary. If your financial aid award must be revised, the reductions occur in the following order: need-based loan assistance, work-study employment, and finally grant assistance.  If your award is revised, you will receive an updated award notice. 
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How do I notify the University if my family has special circumstances?

Should you or your family's circumstances change from the information submitted on the FAFSA or there are extraordinary circumstances that impact your ability to contribute to your or to your dependent student's educational expenses, you may request a review of your financial aid award.
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Is it worth applying for financial aid given my income?
We encourage all families (students) to apply for financial aid by completing the FAFSA. The method of awarding financial aid is complex and is determined by many factors (such as income, household size, number of family members in college, age of parents, and special circumstances). In addition, there are sources of aid such as Unsubsidized Stafford and PLUS loans that are available regardless of need.
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If my parents are separated or divorced, whose information should be used on the FAFSA?
Information should be given for the parent you lived with the most in the last 12 months. If you do not live with either parent or lived with both parents for an equal number of days, give answers about the parent who provided more financial support during the last 12 months, or during the most recent year that you actually were supported by a parent.  If this parent has remarried as of the date you complete the FAFSA, answer the questions on the form about the parent and the person whom your parent married.

If my parents do not support me do they still have to complete the parent section of the FAFSA?
Yes. You must include parent information on the FAFSA unless you are 24 years old, married, a graduate student, orphan or ward of the court, veteran, active duty military for purposes other than training,  or have dependents. If you have special circumstances which make it impossible for your parents to complete the FAFSA, please contact our office.