Dear Jean,
On my Student Aid Report that I got after I filed the Free Application For Federal Student Aid, says I qualify for a Pell Grant. But the only money the financial aid office has put on my award letter is a student loan. What can I do?
Signed,
Confused (and broke) Freshman
Dear Broke,
Okay. The first thing you need to understand is that in your situation, the Pell Grant is Federal money for which you qualify. Yes, it’s “funneled” through the college, but the funds aren’t coming from the college.
Whenever there are issues regarding federal student loans, grants, scholarships, etc. that were listed in a financial aid award but aren’t materializing in your account, always start at the financial aid office — check for missing information, missing forms, etc.
Typically, the money is budgeted and there for you, but somewhere along the way a requirement wasn’t met and until you find out what it is and meet it, the money cannot be disbursed to your account.
Bottom line: Financial Aid Offices have rules and regulations they have to follow, as well as hoops they want you to jump through (miss a hoop, and oops, we can’t give you the money).
Note to all students – incoming freshmen and those of you who will be:
To maximize your financial aid and minimize the difficulties in getting it into your account, here’s what you need to do:
1. Know all the steps required for financial aid at each school
2. Know the deadlines for financial aid requirements at each school — and DON’T MISS THEM
3. Follow-up, Follow-up, Follow-up!
Your Smart Plan For College Assignment
The reasons why the financial aid office isn’t accounting for this money properly can vary. It might be they simply are slow in processing updates and new information. It may be they are waiting for something from you, such as a verification form. Since you specifically asked what to do about this, here it is:
- Download and print out a complete copy of your Student Aid Report from the FAFSA website.
- In the explanation section where it says you qualify for the Pell Grant, circle it.
- Go to your financial aid office, in person, with your Student Aid Report, and ask to speak with a financial aid officer (not just the person sitting behind the desk who is likely just a student “receptionist”, although he or she might be an FAO.)
- Politely explain the situation: “According to my Student Aid Report, I’m supposed to receive a Pell Grant (or whatever aid is missing in action). But, as of today, the grant isn’t showing up in my account. Can you tell me why this is?”
- If they tell you they are missing information that is needed from you, such as an income verification form, then get the form you need, complete it (the information is on your SAR) and get it turned in.
CLICK HERE and get started boosting your college scores today!
