The following are a few tips we would like to share with you in order to make your interaction with a financial aid counselor more productive. We will do our best to make sure that you are served in the very best manner possible. In order for us to help you effectively, we need you to be a partner with us in the financial aid process. This means:

1. Come prepared

If you receive letters or forms that you do not understand, bring them with you when you come. Without seeing the paperwork that concerns you, it is sometimes hard for us to determine how we can best help you.

2. Read all of the information we send you, and act on it in a timely manner

All paperwork is sent for a purpose, and generally requires some action on the student's part. If you do not understand the information or what is required of you, bring the information with you when you see a counselor. Ignoring paperwork could be costly!

3. Do not assume that we know what you need

While we are pretty good at figuring out what you need, it is easier for all involved if you ask questions when you do not understand something. If you need to know how long it may take to process paperwork for loans and appeals, check with us.

4. Make sure your address(es) are current with the Registrar

Any mail sent from our office uses the residing address on record at the Registrar's Office. If your address is not correct, then you may not receive important communications from us. This can slow down or bring your financial aid application process to a halt.

5. Accept that we are human and sometimes make mistakes

Of course, we try our best not to make mistakes, and we will make every effort to correct any errors in a timely manner, as well as offer any help we can under the circumstances. We appreciate the fact that you apply for financial aid because you need assistance to pay for your educational costs, and we understand that it can be a frustrating process. We ask for your patience and understanding as we work through the process with you.

6. Fill out a Release of Information Form

Under the Federal Privacy Act, we cannot discuss your information with anyone else without your permission. If you want your financial aid information released to other people, you will need to submit a Release of Information Form (Adobe Acrobat file). If you are a dependent student and provided parental information on your financial aid application, you do not need to sign a Release of Information form for the parent(s) whose information was on the application.