Financial Aid Checklist

Quick Guide to Filing your FAFSA
JOHN CARROLL FAFSA CODE NUMBER:  003050

The FAFSA cannot be filed until January 1st each year.  You need to have your most recent year-end taxes and information to file.  The following chart should help you understand which FAFSA to file based on when you plan to begin college.

By far, the easiest and most convenient way to file is by using the online version of the FAFSA at www.fafsa.ed.gov.  Nearly 90% of our JCU students file the FAFSA electronically.  It is easier and gets the information to us in a more timely way.  However, paper copies of the federal form typically should be available at high school guidance offices, public libraries, and to other locations sometime in late December.  The Office of Financial Aid begins awarding and mailing financial aid packages to those who apply in early February (for Fall Semester entry) and on a rolling basis thereafter.

Step 1: Apply for your PIN now! [www.pin.ed.gov]
You can apply anytime for your Federal Personal Identification Number (PIN).  Your PIN will be used as an electronic signature for you and your parents on the FAFSA application every year.  Both the student and at least one parent need to apply for PINs.  Parents with older siblings will use the same PIN number.  Remember:  Do not share your PIN with anyone.

Step 2: Apply for financial aid [www.fafsa.ed.gov]
Starting January 1 each year, you can complete your new year’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  You can complete the FAFSA even if you have not yet filed your federal/state taxes by using your prior year’s federal tax return as an estimate.  After your actual taxes are filed, you have the ability to make any necessary corrections online with the actual amounts.

Step 3: Review your Student Aid Report (SAR)
After you submit your FAFSA you will receive a SAR either sent to your email address (if you listed it on your application) or your home address.  Please review this document for errors.  If you notice any errors, you can make the corrections online or the Office of Financial Aid can make them for you.

Step 4: John Carroll financial aid awards begin
Around the same time you receive your SAR, our Office of Financial Aid will receive an electronic copy.  Beginning in early February, we will mail out financial aid awards to families.  Our award will detail the types of aid you are receiving, how much John Carroll will cost and your choices of loans and other borrowing and payment options.  Our staff is available for questions in understanding your award.

Step 5:  Choosing John Carroll and accepting your financial aid award
Once you have selected John Carroll, we will help you with the steps needed to confirm your financial aid.  A signed and returned award letter will get the process rolling.  When you accept loans as part of your award, you must complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and a loan entrance interview.  By completing these two steps you are promising to pay back your loan and also learning about your rights and responsibilities as a student loan borrower.

Filing your FAFSA does not need to be a complex process.  We are here to help you complete the forms any time you have questions.  Look for the JCU staff to be available at the following locations:

• High School planning nights at select greater Cleveland schools
• Personal appointments or workshops on campus
• Participating in College Goal Sunday, co-sponsored by NASFAA