AdvisingHandbook

Financial Aid

FAFSA

Every academic year, students utilizing federal, or state financial aid must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Students must create or log into their account to apply at www.studentaid.gov. Once the FAFSA has been completed, the student will receive a SAR, (or Student Aid Report). SMWC may request additional paperwork to complete their files or resolve any conflicting information. Once a student has earned a bachelor’s degree or their first professional degree, they are only eligible to participate in the federal loan programs and/or receive SMWC awards, The FAFSA opens on October 1 st of each year and the deadline to be considered for Indiana grants is April 15 th of that year If there is a change to a student’s financial or household situation that significantly affects what is reflected on the tax return or household situation, please direct them to the Financial Aid office. Once the FAFSA is submitted by the student, it is exported to SMWC and imported into our system within 72 hours. The financial aid staff will begin the packaging process and the student can view their awards on their student portal.

Scholarships and Grants

Federal

Pell Grant •

Eligibility is based on financial need • Eligibility is based on enrollment status • Must reapply every year through FAFSA

FSEOG (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant) • Must be a Pell Grant recipient • Eligibility is based on financial need • Must reapply every year and have a completed FAFSA for Pell Grant eligibility

Indiana – State Grant Recipients

The state of Indiana is very generous to students who are eligible for these awards. It is always beneficial to ask the student if they receive state grant funds. If so, remember for the student to utilize the maximum award amounts, they must be on track to successfully complete a minimum of 30 credit hours per year.

Updated 7/28/22