How to Apply for Financial Aid


How to Apply for Financial Aid

The financial aid process can seem scary at first, but you just need to take things step by step.

Step 1: File your FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the basic federal form that determines your eligibility for all need-based aid. The same form is used for all students - graduate and undergraduate, traditional and nontraditional. As the name implies, there is no charge to file the form. You can complete the form online at www.fafsa.ed.gov or request a paper copy from the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid .  Whether you file online or by mail, remember to indicate Indiana Tech as a college choice by using our OE code number, 001805. You can file the FAFSA anytime but it must reach the federal processor by MARCH 10 in order to apply for Indiana State aid.

Step 2: File the Indiana Tech financial aid application

We like to collect some additional information of our own, so you'll need to fill out Indiana Tech's financial aid application. Since different types of students have different financial circumstances, there are two forms.

  • If you are a traditional (day) student, click here .
  • If you are a nontraditional (College of Professional Studies) student, click here.

Step 3: Reply to requests for more information

If we need additional information or verification of anything, we'll ask. When we do, please reply as promptly as possible.

If you are a student in the College of Professional Studies, you need to submit a Options Form before registering for your first class. For more information on the payment options that are available, please click here .

A Few Helpful Tips

  • Complete all forms accurately; errors can cause delays.
  • Comply with all deadlines.
  • Keep copies of all paperwork for your records.
  • Remember that changes in your enrollment status will change your aid eligibility.
  • Remember that you have to file for financial aid every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Indiana Tech have an Early Estimator Service?

Prospective traditional day students can download an Early Estimate form here:

  • Dependent Student
  • Independent Student

The Early Estimate form allows early applicants to use this form through December of the current year. Students who complete the Early Estimate form can receive an early indication of their eligibility should they decide to attend Indiana Tech. This would include an estimated range on eligibility for federal grants/scholarships/academic scholarships/athletic scholarships, loans, and work study programs. Students filing the Early Estimator form are still required to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Should I file the FAFSA electronically or by paper?

In this age of technology and speed we highly recommend that you file the FAFSA online. By filing online your family's financial information is made available to Indiana Tech quickly, which in turn allows us to send you an offer of aid. This extra time and information provides you the opportunity to make informed decisions. While we understand that most students are online on a daily basis we also understand that not all students have electronic access. Students are able to file for aid by completing a paper version of the FAFSA In either instance you should be sure to include Indiana Tech as a college choice on your FAFSA Our OE code number is 001805. Review the FAFSA Tips before you begin.

How much longer will I have to wait if I file by paper?

The paper process can take up to three weeks for Indiana Tech to receive the results of your FAFSA If you have to file the FAFSA by paper we recommend that you photocopy the FAFSA, submit your original form to the Central Processor, and forward a copy to our office. By sending us a copy of the FAFSA we can begin working on an award offer. Our fax number is 260-422-1578.

What is a PIN and why do I need one?

You and your parent(s) will need to apply for separate Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) should you decide to complete the FAFSA online. This is a distinct number assigned only to you and allows you to sign your FAFSA or make corrections online. To apply for a PIN number with the Department of Education go to http://www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp

Where do I file the FAFSA?

The FAFSA is filed with a Central Processor and is a FREE SERVICE. To file online go to www.fafsa.ed.gov . If filing the FAFSA by paper an envelope will be provided in your booklet and is self addressed directly to the Central Processor. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is just that - free. We have learned that some students have gone to an incorrect Web site and were charged to file the FAFSA. Under no circumstance should you have to pay a fee to file the FAFSA!

My family makes too much money. Why should I file a FAFSA?

Because you could lose out on thousands of dollars - that's why! Students who don't take the time to file the FAFSA could fail to benefit from available programs. There is no maximum income cutoff for students to receive financial aid. If your family's income is high you won't qualify for low income grants. However, in years past, assistance has gone to students whose family income ranged from $10,000 or less to more than $90,000.

Are there deadline dates to file for assistance?

There are no specific deadline dates to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid however; our preferred deadline date is March 10. FAFSA's are received and processed for those students filing after March 10 on a rolling basis. Students filing prior to March 10 will be given preferential consideration. Remember, like your family's checkbook our aid programs have limited dollars.

Are there deadline dates for individual state grants?

Each state has its own individual deadline dates for students to apply for state grants and scholarships. The individual state deadlines are available on the FAFSA Web site. As a university located in the state of Indiana, we know firsthand that Indiana has an excellent grant program available. However, it is important that your FAFSA arrive at the Central Processor by March 10 in order to be considered for Indiana state assistance. For a direct line to the Indiana programs go to: http://www.in.gov/ssaci/

Do I have to file for financial aid every year that I attend?

Financial aid is awarded on a yearly basis, so yes, you will have to refile a FAFSA each year you attend. We will contact and remind you throughout the school year regarding this process.

Will I receive the same aid offer each year?

The financial aid you receive is reviewed on an annual basis and can change if you fail to meet satisfactory academic progress standards. The aid awarded could also change if there are excessive changes in your family's income or household members.