Financial Aid Checklist
Although there are no deadlines, Ottawa University encourages students to file financial aid paperwork as soon as possible after January 1. The application process takes four to six weeks, so students should apply for aid early enough to ensure that funds are available when needed. The following information is designed to assist you with the financial aid application process. Please follow the steps as listed below to help avoid problems with your processing.
Step 1
Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. Please take your time when completing this application, since incorrect information can affect your eligibility. The FAFSA data is valid from July 1 through June 30 each year and needs to be completed using the prior year's Federal tax return (e.g. use your 2007 tax return to complete the 2008-09 FAFSA for periods of enrollment after July 1, 2008). You will need to complete the FAFSA only once each year.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Use School Code 001937 and BE SURE to electronically SIGN the application. Failure to do so will prevent us from processing your aid. More detailed instructions and information regarding completion of the FAFSA is available here.
Step 2
If you are a first-time borrower with Ottawa University and wish to borrow through the Federal Stafford Loan Program are required to complete at least one Master Promissory Note (MPN) before receiving funds. The MPN is your loan application and is the contract between you and your lender. NOTE: We will be unable to process a loan for you until this has been done and we have been notified by the lender that they are in receipt of a completed and valid MPN.
To complete the MPN, simply click on the type of loan you are interested in (note: Independent students are not eligible for PLUS loans). Review the lender benefits for each provider, select your preferred lender and COMPLETE THE APPLICATION ONLINE using the lender's Electronic Esign application process. NOTE: Failing to complete this process electronically CAN/WILL result in delays with your funding.
Step 3
Students must first complete the Ottawa University Institutional Financial Aid Application which is available online or in paper by contacting any of the adult locations. The Institutional Application looks more intimidating than it really is. Please be as accurate as possible when completing this form. Do not leave any blanks and use BLACK ink only when completing this document. Print, complete and return the 3 worksheet pages to the Financial Aid Department.
Step 4
Students will receive a Student Aid Report. They must carefully review it for accuracy. If all information is correct, students should keep the report for their records. If any information on the SAR is incorrect, students should correct the data, sign and return the SAR to the Department of Financial Aid. The Department of Financial Aid will process the corrections and students then receive a corrected SAR. Students must review the corrected SAR for accuracy.
Step 5
The Ottawa University Department of Financial Aid may need additional information to confirm data or resolve conflicting information. When requested to submit additional information, students should respond as quickly as possible to avoid processing delays.