Financial Aid Planning

How to Pay for College

Complete the steps below to apply for financial aid. We recommend that you complete these steps as soon as possible to ensure you are ready to begin classes.

STEP 1.

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) starts the financial aid process. The Department of Education uses the data on the FAFSA form you submit to determine need and eligibility for federal financial aid. Regardless of family income, all students are strongly encouraged to apply for financial aid by filling out the FAFSA. You will need your most recent Federal Tax Return and Tiffin University’s School Code (003121).

Note: Graduate students are considered independent for financial aid purposes.

Step 2.

Review your Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy

You will receive this report 7-10 days after the FAFSA is submitted. If there are any errors on your SAR, log back into your FAFSA to make corrections.

Step 3.

Complete the credit hour application

The credit hour application will let your financial aid counselor know your plan for how many credit hours you intend to take each semester.

Step 4.

You will receive your financial aid award letter from Tiffin University

The award letter lists the financial aid that you qualify for. You will have to decline or accept the award. Be sure to contact the Financial Aid Office if you have any questions about your award.

Step 5.

Complete Loan Entrance Counseling and the Master Promissory Note

All federal loan borrowers must complete a Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling. Both can be completed on the FAFSA site at the links above.

Federal Loan Requirements

To be eligible to borrow funds under the Federal Direct Loan Program, you must:

1. File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
2. Be a U.S. Citizen, permanent resident, or eligible non-citizen
3. Not be in default or overpayment on prior educational loans
4. Maintain satisfactory academic progress
5. Complete all required financial aid documents on time