Application Procedure. All students interested in applying for financial aid must annually submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and send it to the federal processor at the address listed on the envelope provided with the form. The form should be submitted by no later than March 1 of the academic year preceding the academic year for which aid is sought. FAFSAs are available through high school guidance offices or the Office of Financial Aid. Students who apply after March 15 will be considered as funds become available. FAFSAs are available to students in January. FAFSAs may also be filed on the web: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Parents and students who need assistance in completing the financial aid form should contact the Office of Financial Aid for an appointment. Parents and students should bring complete financial records with them at that time.

Notification. First-year and transfer applicants who apply for aid and are admitted by March 1 can expect to receive a decision between April 1 and May 15. Students admitted after March 1 receive notification of their financial aid within three to four weeks. All applicants for aid are notified whether or not they will be offered financial aid.

Spring Term Application Procedure. Applications for financial aid for the spring term are considered if funds are available. The FAFSA should be submitted to the federal processor no later than October 1 preceding the spring term.

Procedure for Part-Time Students. Students enrolled part time may be eligible for the federal student aid programs described below. The amounts they are eligible to receive will be prorated according to direct educational expenses incurred. It is suggested that part-time students visit the financial aid office for an interview.

Study Abroad. It is recommended that all students planning to study abroad visit the financial aid office for a personal interview to discuss their plans and their eligibility for aid.

Academic Progress. In order for aid to be offered to returning students, satisfactory academic progress must be met. This includes both maintaining a grade-point average that meets the college scholastic standing committee`s requirements, as well as earning a certain number of credits during each year of enrollment.