Citizens Bank prides itself on making education possible for
students and their families. Offering both federal and private
loans, we walk families through every step in the financial
aid process, even those confusing forms! Below are some tips
to keep in mind when completing your Free Application for Federal
Student Aid, otherwise known as your FAFSA, the first step to
securing federal Stafford loans.
Snail Mail vs. E-Mail
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Filing electronically is much quicker.
Paper copies of the form take
4-6 weeks to get processed while electronic forms only
take 7-10 days.
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The electronic form also helps ensure that the information
is filled out correctly, since it must be completed before
you can advance to the next page.
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To file electronically visit www.fafsa.ed.gov.
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You can obtain a paper copy of the FAFSA from your
high school’s guidance office or the college or
university you plan on attending. |
Start at the Beginning
Deadlines, Deadlines and more Deadlines!
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Freshmen often have earlier deadlines than
returning students.
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Deadlines are the dates forms should be received.
Make sure to allow enough travel time (especially via
mail) for the form to reach its destination before
the actual due date.
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Make sure to check School AND
State specific deadlines. They are usually earlier than
deadlines for Federal Aid.
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Don’t wait
until your taxes are filed to complete your FAFSA! You
can fill in your estimated income and then simply complete
your taxes as soon as possible thereafter. |
More Info Please
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Some schools require additional forms to
be filled out along with the FAFSA. Check with the school
you are attending to be sure that you completed all of
the necessary forms!
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Make sure to respond promptly to any verification requests.
Delays could jeopardize your financial aid award. |
Be a Copycat
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It is extremely important to make or print
copies of EVERYTHING before you send it! Keep a folder of all your financial aid information
including forms, tax returns, W-2’s, etc. Having a folder will also make the verification process
more efficient since all the necessary information is
in one place!
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Affording College in Today's Market Conditions
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Paying for college has always been a daunting task for many parents, but today’s sluggish economy is likely making it seem even more overwhelming. My advice: Remain calm and focused.
Read article. |
Help!
For questions about your FAFSA or Financial Aid in general you
can contact The Citizens Bank Education
Finance Team at
800-708-6684 or email educationfinance@citizensbank.com.
We have former financial aid directors on staff to answer
your
specific questions.
Visit Citizens
Bank's site and learn more about the educational loan opportunities.
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