Financial Aid Application

The Financial Aid process at Spoon River College is an annual activity beginning January 1 for the following academic year (fall, spring, and summer). The Free Application for Student Aid is required for all federal aid, including grants, Stafford student loans, and work study as well as the Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP). The FAFSA is a free application, you should never have to pay a fee to submit your information.

Steps to completing the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA)

1. Gather the documents you need

• Your SS#, DL#, W-2's, Federal Income Tax return, parent's Federal Income Tax return (if required), parent's W-2's (if required), and any additional untaxed income such as veteran's benefits, child support, and worker's compensation.

2. Apply for a PIN

• A PIN (Personal Identification Number) is a four-digit number used in combination with your SS# and date of birth to identify you as someone who has access to your own personal information. You, along with your parents (if required) will use your PIN to sign your FAFSA. Note: Your parents must also apply for a PIN, used to sign their portion of your FAFSA (if required).

3. Print a FAFSA on the Web Worksheet

• The FAFSA on the Web Worksheet allows you to read and complete the questions before entering your information online.

Apply Early. Some funds are limited, and the sooner you file the more financial aid you could potentially receive.

Verification

Approximately 30% of all FAFSA's are selected by the Federal Processor for verification. You will be contacted by SRC, by mail if your FAFSA was selected for verification or you can check MySRC for your financial aid status. If selected for verification, a verification worksheet and federal tax returns are required to determine financial aid eligibility. Processing of your financial aid cannot continue until all required documents are returned to the financial aid office.