Financial Aid : Day : Applying For 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.
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: 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
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Complete all forms accurately; errors can cause delays.
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Comply with all deadlines.
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Keep copies of all paperwork for your records.
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Remember that changes in your enrollment status will change your aid
eligibility.
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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:
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.
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.