Questions to Ask the Financial Aid Office

The changes to the 2024-25 FAFSA have added some twists and turns to the college financial aid process. Whether you’re an incoming freshman or a returning student, it’s important to stay connected with your financial aid office and to ask questions if you’re unsure about the financial aid you’ve been offered. If you don’t know where to start or what to ask, you may find these questions helpful.

  • Does your school have a priority deadline for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) completion? What are the consequences if I don’t meet the deadline?
  • When will I know how much financial aid I’ll be eligible to receive?
  • Am I considered a dependent or independent student?
  • Is there a way to change my dependency status?
  • What should I do if I have an unusual circumstance that caused my/my parent(s)’ income to change?
  • How can I make changes to the FAFSA form I submitted?
  • Are there resources available to help me investigate other types of aid, such as scholarships?
  • Do you offer an installment plan that would allow me to make monthly payments throughout the school year? If so, are there any associated fees?
  • What is the average student loan debt for your graduates?
  • Does my financial aid package reflect the college’s final tuition costs for this school year?
  • What is the total cost of attendance for this year and is that reflected on my financial aid offer letter?
  • If I’m awarded a scholarship, will it change the amount of aid you can offer me?                                                                                                                         
  • Is the institutional scholarship renewable for additional years?
  • When is my first tuition payment due?

Be prepared when you call or visit the financial aid office by having a list of questions ready. Bring your aid offer, your FAFSA Submission Summary, your StudentAid.gov username and password, and any other supporting documentation with you to expedite the process. A knowledgeable financial aid officer can help answer your questions.