Financial Aid Checklist

The following summarizes the steps necessary for timely processing of student financial. Attention to deadlines and procedures ensures maximum consideration for aid offered by the Washington College of Law.

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the March 1 priority deadline at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The AU Title IV Code is 001434.
File federal income tax returns early to ensure reporting of actual income figures on the FAFSA. Students may use estimated figures if they expect tax filing delays.
File the Need Access application for WCL need-based grant aid by March 1 (full-time JD students only) at www.needaccess.org. Upperclassmen must also submit a signed tax return for the most recent tax year and a Verification/Supplemental Information Form by May 1st.
Submit Student Aid Report (SAR) corrections to the FAFSA processor promptly.
Respond to requests for additional documentation promptly. Income documents are most often requested.
Accept your financial aid offer at my.american.edu.
Complete and sign the Master Promissory Notes (Subsidized/Unsubsidized and Graduate Plus) for federal loans if necessary.
Complete Loan Entrance Counseling requirements. This requirement applies to first-time borrowers at AU.
Review credit reports for potential problems when considering supplemental loan assistance. Contact any of the following credit bureaus for information: Experian (www.experian.com), Equifax (www.equifax.com) or TransUnion (www.tuc.com).
Incoming students should apply for supplemental loans by June 1. Refer to "Types of Aid – Supplemental Loans" of the financial aid web site for detailed information. Continuing students should apply by July 1. Note: A WCL Grad PLUS application must be filed to obtain federal Grad PLUS funds.
Organize and keep a record of all financial aid related documents and correspondence. Pay particular attention to notices from your lender(s).
Contact the Financial Aid Office at 202-274-4040 if you have further questions.