Financial Aid FAQs

Q: What documents must I file to be considered for financial assistance?

A: You must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). A statement describing your community service experience and career goals is also required to be considered for the MSPP endowed scholarships and the Lucero Scholarship.

Q: Do I need to wait for an offer of admission to apply for financial aid?

A: You are strongly encouraged to submit your FAFSA before you receive your offer of admission.

Q: What is the financial aid application due date?

A: MSPP has a priority due date of March 1, although we continue to make institutional awards on a funds-available basis for students whose applications are received after the due date.

Q: When will I receive a response to my application?

A: We will forward an award letter to all applicants following an offer of admission and receipt of your FAFSA results. MSPP may contact you to request additional documentation of income and assets before the award letter is released.

Q: I am not a US citizen, can I apply for assistance?

A: If you meet the FAFSA filing requirements for an eligible non-citizen, you may be considered for federal and institutional aid. Please log on to fafsa.ed.gov to determine if you qualify as an eligible non-citizen.

Q: Can I use my financial aid for living expenses?

A: Financial aid, including student loans, may be used to cover reasonable living expenses such as housing, transportation, utilities, meals and medical expenses.

Q: How do I receive my financial aid funds?

A: All financial aid awards, including student loans, are paid directly to the school and credited to your student account at the start of each academic semester. Funds for living expenses are then released to the student by check payment during the first week of classes.

Q: Can I receive financial aid when I am enrolled less than full-time?

A: For each semester of enrollment, you must be enrolled at least half-time (as determined by MSPP) to remain eligible for federal student loans. You must be enrolled full time (as defined by your program) to remain eligible for institutional aid.

Q: Can my financial aid be used to pay my admissions & registration deposit?

A: Your financial aid award may not be used for this purpose. You may remit payment of deposits using a personal check or credit card. Your deposits are credited to your student account as cash payments towards your first semester costs.

Q: How often do I re-apply for financial aid?

A: You must re-apply each year for federal and institutional assistance.

Updated 9/1/09