follow these simple steps....

Step 1: Applying for a pin #: Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov/pin and click on Privacy and Security after you have read the agreement.  Complete the information for you  (and parents if you are dependent).  You will receive notification within 2-10 days.  Use your pin # to sign your FAFSA application online.  With a pin # there is no need to mail in signature page.  Completing and using an electronic pin # can save up to 2 weeks of processing.

Step 2: Complete the IRS tax return:  It is best to complete your tax return (and parents if you are dependent) before filling out the FAFSA.  A large portion of the FAFSA requires information from you tax return.

Step 3: Complete the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA):   The FAFSA allows you to apply for federal and state grants, work-study, and loans.  Some scholarship applications may require the FAFSA results.  In addition to the online FAFSA application, at www.fafsa.ed.gov, students may also choose to mail in the form with the envelope provided.  To prevent mistakes, we recommend completing the paper FAFSA, even if the application is filed online.

Step 4: Apply Early: Midland College has a priority deadline date of June 1st, for Fall and October 1st, for the Spring.   Students must turn in all necessary documents by this date.  A tracking letter is sent to those students needing additional documents, such as a tax return or W-2's.  The FAFSA results can take 4-6 weeks.  Make sure that you leave enough time to turn in additional documents if requested.

Step 5: Verification: A random selection of students may be selected for a process called verification.  Notification of additional documents needed for your file is sent to you by mail from your school.  Once these documents are received, the financial aid office will continue processing your file.  In many cases this process can take several weeks to complete.  The verification form an be found at www.midland.edu/admissions/aid/forms/verification.pdf.

Step 6: Award Notification: Once our financial aid office shows your file is complete the next step is to receive notice of your eligibility, which is an award letter.  If you are not eligible for Pell or state grants, work-study, or loans you will also receive a letter.  Campus Connect is frequently updated with student awards. 

Please come by the financial aid office if you have any questions concerning the steps for applying for financial aid.  There are many guidelines to follow and process can sometimes seem confusing.

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