Financial Aid frequently asked questions: 2013-2014 FAFSA

This is part of a series of information from the Financial Aid Office. Although this is an FA column, any and all billing, payment and refund of fees questions should be directed to the Student Accounts Office located in Old Main Room 100 or by calling 717-477-1211.

Looking for something to do during spring break? Have you filed your 2013-2014 FAFSA yet? Please be sure to do so before May 1.

In order to meet the May 1 PHEAA State Grant deadline, you must file your FAFSA for 2013-2014 as soon as possible.

You may go to www.fafsa.gov to file this new form necessary for fall 2013, spring 2014 and summer 2014 attendance.

Filing by May 1 could qualify you for a PHEAA State Grant. This is free money that does not have to be repaid.

Also, the sooner you file the better chance you have of possibly obtaining internal federal funding from Shippensburg University.

Although the form will ask for 2012 income information, you are not required to have your 2012 taxes finished in order to file.

You may use estimated income from your W-2, 1099 statements or you may use 2011 taxes if the income is approximately the same for 2012.

Returning students will be packaged with aid awards after the commencement of spring 2013 when final grades have posted.

Packaging should occur in late May to early June for returning students who have a 2013-2014 FAFSA on file. If you do not have a 2013-2014 FAFSA on file, we will be unable to package you with aid.

Be sure to file your 2013-2014 FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov as soon as possible so you do not miss out on aid.

If you would like assistance in filing, please contact the Financial Aid office either by phone at 717-477-1121 or by email finaid@ship.edu to schedule an appointment with an adviser.

-Courtesy of the Financial Aid Office