02.09.07 | Time Flies…But it’s almost Stafford time!
By now, everyone should be into FAFSA mode - if you haven’t thought about it, start ASAP (as in, start yesterday) - you might find a March 1 deadline looming.
I like to give the best instructions on what steps to follow to optimize the financial aid process and not make it such a stress. Typically, you file a FAFSA, request it be sent to your school(s) of choice and wait for an award letter. Once that award letter arrives and you accept it, you apply for the Stafford…and then Grad PLUS funds, scholarships, alternative funding (private loans), etc.
In reality, I am a planner and I know many of you are too. You MAY apply for the Stafford whenever you want - but as long as it is in advance of your school’s deadline, don’t expect time to get you the funds any sooner. For a fall semester start date, schools tend to certify in late July, August, and into September. So, you may apply now, and if you do, I applaud you for being on the ball - so many wait too long and end up scrambling at the last minute. But, the downside is, your school might not certify it…just yet.