10-Step FAFSA Check List
Over the years, our staff members have become aware of some generally asked questions from returning and new students about the FAFSA application and awarding process, so we decided to team up and present the below 10-Step FAFSA Check List! We strongly encourage you to follow the below steps so that your FAFSA application can be processed, and your aid posted, in a timely manner. Feel free to save this page on your browser of choice or print it off to use as a check-list as you complete each step!
In addition to our 10-Step FAFSA Check List, we have also posted several helpful FAFSA training videos on our website to help you get started!
Remember: The federal government never charges you to complete your FAFSA. Be wary of scams!
Step 1
Complete 1040 Tax Return. If we request additional documentation from you, you may need to request a tax return transcript from the IRS (see Step 5).
Step 2
If you do not already have a FSA ID, for studentaid.gov, apply for one now. Your parents should apply for one too. This will make getting information and applying for financial aid a much easier process.
Step 3
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after completing your federal income tax. You can apply online at https://studentaid.gov/.
Please note that the Future Act Direct Data Exchange (FA-DDX) is required and available for the 2024-25 FAFSA and beyond. It will use prior-prior year tax information. For example, the 2024-2025 FAFSA used 2022 tax information.
Step 4
Once all parties (student and/or parents) have completed their portion(s) of the FAFSA Application, the student will receive a notification by email stating that their application has been submitted. Please make sure to check your FAFSA Submission Summary by logging into your account on studentaid.gov to view your submitted FAFSA and make any necessary changes.
Step 5
Check your Eagle Online regularly. Under the Financial Aid - Eligibility link, you can see any requests for additional information such as verification forms, marriage certificates, W-2 forms, etc. that the Financial Aid Office needs from you to successfully process your FAFSA application. When you receive requirements, please submit the requested documents promptly so our office can process your application by the earliest allowable date.
Step 6
On Eagle Online under the Awards tab you can view, accept or reject your FAFSA package offers once they are made available. Our office will notify you by email when your FAFSA package has been processed and posted to your account.
Step 7
If you are a first time student loan borrower, you will need to complete First-Time Entrance Counseling and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) by logging into studentaid.gov with your FSA ID. Your student loans, even if accepted, will NOT post to your account and reflect on your balance until you complete Entrance Counseling and sign your MPN.
Step 8
With government Stafford and Direct Loans, please remember that:
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There is a small origination fee, which can change each October 1st, that reduces the amount paid based on the current origination fee.
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All loans for the full academic year (fall and spring) are disbursed in two parts (one at the beginning of each semester).
Step 9
If you have any questions about documents requested via Eagle Online, email financialaid@tntech.edu, or call the school or agency that sent you the letter. Time is important. When in contact with Tennessee Tech, make sure to have your T-Number handy and have the document on your computer screen or a copy of the document you have questions about in front of you when you call so you can better explain your question to those you are calling.
Step 10
Attend the Student Orientation, Advisement, & Registration (SOAR) Program. Meet with our office if you have any additional questions about your aid, and learn when your bill is due and payable (so you can be sure about how you can pay it).
Questions? Reach Out to Us!
If you have any questions about paying for college, the FAFSA, or any of the above information, schedule a meeting with us! Our Financial Outreach Coordinator Joe Clark is available to answer any questions or concerns you or your parents may have, so please feel free to reach out to him at jclark@tntech.edu to schedule an appointment!
