Checking off to-do items is a great feeling! This interactive checklist will help you keep track of your progress as long as you're on the same browser and your cache hasn't been cleared.
TO DO AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
Complete the FAFSA
Complete the FAFSA for the appropriate school year. You’ll need your federal tax returns and possibly those of your parents or spouse. After it's submitted, it takes BYU 2-3 business days to receive it. You may receive marketing information for private loans through banks and credit unions. These loans require a credit check for approval, and most students also need a co-signer. Private loans typically have higher rates and loan terms than federal student loans. Before applying for a private loan, you should first apply for scholarships and federal aid. Then, if you still need additional funds, we strongly recommend that you visit with Enrollment Services to review all your financial options.
Complete Tasks & Check BYU Email
It takes BYU 2-3 business days to receive your FAFSA. You may be assigned tasks to complete, and if so, you'll receive an email with a link to complete the tasks. These items must be completed in order to continue the financial aid process, so complete them as soon as possible.
Complete Verification
If you're selected for verification, you're required to complete the process in order to be awarded federal aid (Pell Grant and Direct Loans). Verification is used to prove the accuracy of FAFSA data. Processing takes 2 weeks.
Accept or Decline Awards
Once all tasks are complete, you'll receive an email outlining your award eligibility. Pell Grants are automatically accepted for you, but loans must be accepted. If you're a first time loan borrower, you'll be assigned two additional tasks (Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling) that must be done before receiving the loan.
STARTING ONE WEEK BEFORE CLASSES BEGIN
Aid Disbursement to My Financial Center
Once you're awarded, complete all required tasks, and meet all eligibility requirements, your financial aid will be applied to your student account. Financial aid funds go directly to your student account and will only pay current tuition, program fees (like Study Abroad), housing, meal plans, and then excess funds will be refunded to you. Aid posts to your student account 7-10 days before the beginning of a semester/term.
Part-Time Student Refund Hold
Financial aid refunds are not issued to part-time students until after the Add/Drop Deadline. This is because adding additional credit hours before the Add/Drop Deadline may increase your tuition charges which may also change the amount of your refund. Your refund will be sent after certain conditions are met or if you notify BYU that your schedule is finalized.
Receive Your Refund with Direct Deposit
If you have excess financial aid, we'll refund you the money starting on the 3rd day of classes. If you're using direct deposit, you will likely receive your excess money 1-3 business days after the refund process begins. Without direct deposit, a check will be mailed which likely takes 10 business days to arrive at your mailing address. If it has been more than 10 days for your direct deposit or a check to arrive, submit a case.
Submit the BYU Scholarship Application for the Next Academic Year
We encourage all students to complete the online BYU Scholarship Application, regardless of your circumstances.
