Applying for Aid

Several factors in the evaluation of need-based financial aid eligibility are subject to change from year to year, so it is necessary to apply on an annual basis.

Our staff is happy to provide information and answer questions about the financial aid application process. 

PRIORITY FINANCIAL AID CONSIDERATION IS GIVEN TO THOSE STUDENTS WHO MEET THE  JUNE 1, 2007, DEADLINE.

In order to be eligible for federal student assistance, the student must:

• Be a citizen or eligible non-citizen of the United States with a valid Social Security #.
• Be classified as degree-seeking and enrolled at least half-time.
• Not owe a refund on a federal student grant or be in default on a federal student loan.
• Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards.
• Be registered with the Selective Service (male students born after December 31, 1959, who are at least 18 years of age.

Forms that need to be completed to apply for financial aid:

1. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
   CSB’s federal school code is 002341
   SJU’s federal school code is 002379
2. CSB/SJU Financial Aid Application for 2008-09     

This form is sent to returning students in January, 2008, and must be completed and returned to the financial aid office along with a signed copy of both the parent(s)’ and student’s 2007 federal tax return and copies of all W-2s.

You are encouraged to complete the FAFSA online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. To complete the Renewal on the Web, you will need a PIN (an electronic identifier unique to you), which you should have received from the federal government when you completed the FAFSA the first time.  If you did not receive a PIN or lost your PIN, you may request one at http://www.pin.ed.gov.  Both the student and one parent must have a PIN to apply electronically.  If you cannot file the FAFSA electronically, you may pick up a paper version at the Financial Aid Office.   

DO NOT APPLY BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2008. 

DO APPLY AFTER JANUARY 1, 2008, AND BEFORE JUNE 1, 2008, FOR PRIORITY CONSIDERATION.

Substantial Change in Income:

If you, or your family, experience a substantial change in income due to death, disability, unemployment, divorce, or similar circumstances, you should discuss your situation with a financial aid counselor.  In some cases, upon submission of supporting documentation, your financial aid eligibility may be adjusted.

• Special Circumstances Form 2008-09 

If you plan to be married prior to the next academic year, please stop in and see a financial aid counselor.

You should receive a Student Aid Report from the federal processor within 4 weeks of submission.  If you do not, call 1-800-433-3243. 

At the time you receive your Student Aid Report, the financial aid office will be receiving an electronic version of your information.  If the CSB/SJU Application is complete, your application will be reviewed, financial aid eligibility will be calculated, and an award letter will be sent to you outlining available sources of funding.  This could include federal and state grants, student employment, and federally subsidized student loans.  CSB/SJU merit-based scholarships will automatically renew since they are not dependent on need.

Other Outside Aid

You are obligated to notify us at any time during the year that you receive any type of financial assistance, which was not on your original aid application or listed on your award notice.  This includes scholarships from outside sources, vocational rehabilitation support, veteran’s benefits, and all aid from outside sources.  Your aid package may be modified as a result of your receipt of outside aid.

Financial Aid Tips 

1. Apply early.
2. Answer all questions completely and accurately to avoid processing delays.
3. Keep copies of all information sent and received.
4. If you have a question, contact us.
5. Don’t rule out applying, because you think you may not be eligible.

Address Changes

We send correspondence to your permanent mailing address, campus post office box, and/or temporary off-campus address.  It is your responsibility to keep addresses updated with the Registrar’s Office.  We also use CSB/SJU email addresses to send important notices; please open and read any messages from our offices prior to deleting them.