Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a deadline for filing for Financial Aid?
You should file your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at least six weeks before you will need the money. If you are filing late, please keep in mind that federal regulations require that we have a valid Student Aid Report (SAR) by the student’s last date of enrollment for the covered academic year. There are NO exceptions to this rule.
- What makes me an independent student?
You are an independent student if you can answer “yes” to any of the following questions:
- Were you born before January 1, 1982? for 2005-2006 or January 1, 1983? for 2006-2007
- At the beginning of the academic year for which you are applying, will you be working on a master’s or doctoral program? (Not the bachelor’s degree prior to these degrees.)
- As of today, are you married? (Answer “yes” if you are separated but not divorced.)
- Do you have children who receive more than half of their support from you?
- Do you have dependents other than your children or spouse who live with you and who receive more than half of their support from you, now and through June 30, 2006? for 2005-2006 or June 30, 2007? for 2006-2007
- Are both of your parents deceased, or are you (or were you until age 18) a ward/dependent of the court?
- Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces?
If you answered “no” to all these questions, but still feel you have extreme circumstances (such as abuse or neglect), please contact your financial aid counselor.
- What if my parents don’t support me? Do I still have to use their tax information?
Yes. You must use your parents’ information unless you can answer “yes” to one of the questions that determine independent status. The government looks at your parents’ ability to pay, not their willingness to pay.
- If I get married after I have filled out the FAFSA, can I fill out a new one?
No. Marital status CANNOT be updated midyear.
- If my parents are divorced, whose information do I use on the FAFSA?
You should use the information of the parent from whom you received the most financial assistance (including housing) during the last twelve months. If that parent has remarried, you must also use your stepparent’s information, even if they will not contribute toward your education.
- I’m getting married. When should I submit my FAFSA?
It depends. If you feel you will get a better benefit by using your information alone or with your parents, you should submit your FAFSA before you are married. If you feel you will get a better benefit by using your information and your spouse’s, you must wait until after your marriage date. Marital status cannot be updated during the year, so whatever your status on the day you apply, it will stay. You may visit www.finaid.org/calculators/ to determine how you will best benefit.
- When do I have to pay my loan back?