Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do I apply for Financial Aid?
A. By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA can be easily submitted over the internet at www.fafsa.gov. This application is the starting point for all types of financial aid. Scholarships require separate application procedures depending on the type of scholarship. Remember to apply for financial aid EACH academic year. NIACC offers help in completing your FAFSA. Contact our Financial Management Advisor at (888) 466-4222, ext. 4417 for assistance.
Q. What should I do after receiving my Student Aid Report (SAR)?
A. If everything is correct, keep the SAR for future reference. If you need to make corrections, contact the Financial Aid Office.
Q. Why do I have to put my parents' information on the application when they're not helping me pay for school?
A. The Federal government has established the criteria that determine whether you must report parent information. The criteria are typically found in the Student Dependency Step of the FAFSA form. If you answer “no” to all of the questions, you must provide parent information. If you answer “yes” to at least one of these questions, you do not have to provide parent information.
Q. If I just want a student loan, do I have to fill out the FAFSA?
A. Yes. The FAFSA is used for both grant and loan eligibility determination.
Q. Will there be grant money available if I apply late?
A. Pell grants and student loans will be available as long as you meet eligibility criteria. The State of Iowa’s deadline for state aid programs is July 1. To be considered for the campus-based financial aid programs, file by NIACC’s priority deadline of March 1. This means that the processing center must have received your FAFSA by the filing date. If you have any questions about filing your FAFSA, contact NIACC’s Financial Aid Office.
Q. Does financial aid cover the cost of my books?
A. Financial aid can be used toward the cost of books; however, NIACC does not disburse any credit balance checks until after the semester begins. You should plan ahead to have money available to purchase your books.
Q. When will I get my financial aid?
A. Your financial aid will be available to you after you have received an official Award Notification letter. The NIACC Business Office typically will begin issuing refunds to students 2 weeks into the semester and every 2 weeks thereafter.
Q. How long will this whole process take?
A. After you complete and submit your FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) from the Processing Center. The NIACC Financial Aid Office will begin working on your aid at that time. We strive to get information to you in a timely manner; however, if corrections need to be made or documentation is required, this process can take awhile. Be patient and APPLY EARLY!!
Q. What do I do if my Financial Aid is not processed before my tuition bill is due?
A. Contact the NIACC Business Office and see what type of payment arrangements are available.