Office of Student Aid : Applying for Student Aid 2009-10 : 2009-10 FAFSA Tips

***Complete the FAFSA on the Web.***

You and your parents, if applicable, should complete your 2008 Federal Tax Return(s) before completing the FAFSA on the Web; if you cannot, you may use your estimated tax information. Review Penn State's recommended completion dates to receive maximum consideration for all student aid programs including Pennsylvania and other state grant deadlines.

Keep copies of all 2008 Federal Income Tax Returns and W-2 forms. Our office may request copies and responding quickly to our request helps ensure timely disbursement of your student aid.

Important communications are sent to you via e-mail from both the University and the federal government. Once you activate your Penn State e-mail account, you should check it frequently to ensure that you do not miss important information and updates. Remember to correct the e-mail address on the Student Aid Report (SAR) when changing e-mail providers.

You may access your Penn State e-mail account at any time through Penn State WebMail.

If you or your parent(s) filter your incoming e-mail, it is important that you not block communication from Penn State (...@psu.edu) or the Department of Education (FederalStudentAidFAFSA@cpsemail.ed.gov) or (FederalStudentAidPIN@cpsemail.ed.gov).

If you need assistance completing the FAFSA, contact the Office of Student Aid or speak to the student aid representative at the Penn State campus nearest you. For information about common mistakes to avoid when completing the FAFSA, please visit the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) Web site.