Interested applicants for enrollment as well as actively enrolled students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for financial aid.  The process to complete the FAFSA and apply for financial aid at our institution is outlined below.
 

1. Obtain Federal Student Aid Identification (FSA ID)
   The FSA ID is a secure username and password combination required to access U.S. Department of Education websites. It is used to complete and electronically sign the FAFSA, as well as to access federal student aid records.
   
   Both students and the parents of dependent students must create an FSA ID.
   
    

2. Gather Financial Documentation
   Gather all financial documents related to your household’s income and expenses. In most cases, this information can be found on your federal tax return—or your parent’s, if applicable. In addition to the tax return, be sure to collect any supporting documents, such as W-2 forms, 1099s, or records of untaxed income. These materials will be helpful when completing the FAFSA and verifying your financial information if needed.
    

3. Complete FAFSA
   When completing the FAFSA, be sure to include your identifying information such as your Social Security Number (SSN), address, marital status, and number of dependents. You’ll also need to report your total household income.
   
   To ensure our school receives your application and can provide you with an official financial aid offer, don’t forget to enter our Federal School Code.
   
   Federal School Code: 042286
    

4. Review Student Aid Report (SAR)
   After submitting your FAFSA, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing the information you provided. Review it carefully to ensure everything is accurate. If you spot any errors, you can make corrections through the FAFSA website.
   
   The SAR includes your Student Aid Index, a number used to determine your eligibility for financial aid. The SAI has replaced the Estimated Family Contribution and is calculated using the financial details you reported.
   
   If you believe your SAI was calculated incorrectly, or if your financial situation has changed, please contact the Financial Aid Office for assistance.
    

5. Review Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR)
   The school will review each applicant’s Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR) a summary of the demographic, household, and financial data submitted through the FAFSA to determine financial aid eligibility.
   
   Based on this review, a financial aid award offer will be generated and presented to the applicant.​
   
   In certain cases, school officials may exercise professional judgment to adjust the aid package if the ISIR does not accurately reflect the applicant’s current financial situation. This allows for a more personalized and equitable assessment of financial need.
   
   In some cases, a student’s FAFSA may be selected for verification, which is the process of confirming the accuracy of the information submitted. Typically, the U.S. Department of Education initiates this request, though our institution also has the authority to require verification. However, school-initiated verification is rare.
    

6. Review Financial Aid Award Offer
   The student and parent, if applicable, will receive a formal financial aid award offer. This document outlines the estimated total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.
   
   The award letter will list all private financial aid reported during the application process. If the student qualifies for Veterans’ Education Benefits, such as the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, those benefits will also be reflected in the offer.
   
   Students and parents may request a reduction in the amount of aid offered, typically to avoid incurring unnecessary loan debt.
   
   As part of the review process, school officials will also help establish a payment plan to cover any remaining tuition and fees not covered by financial aid. Payment plans are available in either 10-month or 18-month repayment schedules.
    

7. Accept Award Offer
   Upon agreement to the terms and conditions outlined in the financial aid award offer, the student and, if applicable, the parent must endorse the award letter. Once endorsed, the institution will process the documentation, finalize the financial aid package, and schedule disbursement in accordance with institutional and federal guidelines.
    

8. Sign Enrollment Agreement
   Once the student’s financial aid award offer has been accepted, school officials will prepare the enrollment agreement for review and signature. This agreement outlines key details, including the class start date, anticipated completion date, and financial terms.
   
   A school official will review the agreement with the student and parent, if applicable before both parties sign to confirm their acceptance. Once endorsed by a school official, the agreement becomes a legally binding document.
   
   Congratulations! You’ve successfully completed the financial aid process and are now officially enrolled. We look forward to celebrating your success at graduation!