How to Work With Your Financial Aid Office: A Student's Guide

Starting your college journey is exciting, and your financial aid office is ready to help you figure out how to pay for college. Think of your financial aid advisor as your personal guide to navigating college costs. They’re experts at helping students understand the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), find scholarships and make sense of their financial aid options to prepare for their first year of school and beyond.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through questions to ask the financial aid office and how to work with your advisor so you can find the best ways to fund your education.

Step 1: Understanding FAFSA

The federal government plays a crucial role in providing financial aid through the FAFSA, distributing billions of dollars annually. For prospective and current students alike, talking about paying for college usually starts with the FAFSA. 

Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for federal aid, you should still fill out the FAFSA so you don’t miss opportunities to access other funding sources. “Many scholarships require a completed FAFSA as part of the application process, so don’t miss out,” Young says. “Completing the FAFSA thoroughly and promptly is essential to maximizing the financial support available to you.”

Your financial aid advisor can be a huge help with this important first step. They can answer complicated FAFSA questions and help you understand what information you’ll need when you apply.

Don’t wait to schedule your FAFSA appointment. Meeting with your advisor early can give you more time to gather documents and submit your application well before the deadline. They can also help you understand your financial aid offers once they arrive.

Step 2: Appealing your financial aid package, if needed

Sometimes your initial financial aid package might not be enough to cover your college costs—and that’s OK. Your financial aid office can help you explore options for additional funding based on your financial need and available institutional aid. Many schools have a formal appeal process, also called “professional judgment,” where you can request a review of your aid package.

If your family’s financial situation has changed since filing the FAFSA (such as a parent’s job loss, change in income or new medical expenses), let your advisor know right away. They can guide you through the steps to request additional aid and help you through the appeal process. 

Step 3: Finding scholarships and work opportunities

Beyond the FAFSA, financial aid offices provide information about scholarships and work opportunities for college students. They may point you toward school-specific awards you might not find anywhere else and help you understand which opportunities best match your strengths.

Many schools have scholarship search tools and databases just for students. Ask your advisor to show you how to use these resources. You might find some opportunities that aren’t listed on public scholarship websites.

Step 4: Understanding your student loan options

If you need additional funding after grants and scholarships, your financial aid advisor can help you understand various student loan options. They can help explain the differences between federal and private student loans and make informed choices about borrowing.

Before taking out any loans, work with your advisor to understand exactly how much money you need to borrow. They can help you avoid taking on more debt than necessary and may also provide financial education resources to help you manage your student loan debt.

Smart tips for working with your financial aid office

The school's financial aid website and financial aid office are invaluable when it comes to helping you understand your options. In addition to asking the questions listed above, you can get the most from your financial aid office by following these 4 simple tips.

• Stay organized. Keep all your financial aid documents in one place and track important deadlines. This includes your FAFSA confirmation, award letters, loan documents and scholarship information. It will be easier for a financial advisor to help you when you’re organized.
• Plan ahead. Schedule your appointments in advance, especially during busy times like the start of each semester. Come prepared with specific questions and bring any relevant paperwork. Your meetings will be more productive, and you’ll be more likely to get the answers you need.
• Keep in touch. Regular check-ins with your advisor can help you stay on top of new opportunities and deadlines. Don’t wait for problems to arise. Stop by the financial aid office to share updates or ask questions. Being proactive can help build a positive relationship.
• Be open and honest. Your financial aid advisor is there to help, not judge. The more they understand about your situation, the better they can assist you. If you’re facing financial challenges, let them know. They might have solutions you haven’t considered.

Navy Federal can help answer financial aid questions

Understanding different funding sources is crucial for covering unmet financial needs. Navy Federal offers additional support for your education journey. Our MakingCents college planning resources can help you create a realistic college budget, compare different funding options and understand the financial aid process.