Common Reasons Why Your Student's Financial Aid Award Is Delayed
With the end of July approaching and first college payments coming due, many parents of incoming freshmen are discovering they haven't received their financial aid awards yet. If you're in this situation, it's time to take action.
Call the Financial Aid Office Immediately
Don't wait any longer—contact your school's financial aid office right away to ask why you haven't received your award. Most schools won't allow students into dorms until the first payment is made, so time is critical.
Three Main Reasons for Delayed Awards
1. FAFSA Issues
The most common problem is that the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) wasn't filed or was filed incorrectly. Many parents skip filing because they assume they won't qualify for aid, only to realize later that they need it for student loans. If this is your situation, file the FAFSA immediately.
2. School Processing Delays
Many schools are experiencing slower processing times this year, causing delays in financial aid awards. While frustrating, this is becoming increasingly common.
3. Payment Timing Concerns
Some families are seeing their bills before their financial aid has been processed and applied to their accounts, creating confusion about what they actually owe.
Don't Panic About Federal Aid Cuts
Despite media speculation and rumors, there are no changes to undergraduate financial aid programs that would affect individual students' awards. Federal student aid continues to be available to all qualifying students regardless of demographics or school type.
Take Action Now
If you owe a first payment and are waiting on financial aid:
Contact the financial aid office to verify your FAFSA status
Reach out to the bursar or accounts office to negotiate extra time if needed
Ensure all required documentation has been submitted
Don't let registration holds be placed on your account
Time is of the essence, so make those calls today to ensure your student can start college on schedule.
Need Help?