Common Errors on FAFSA Applications
FAFSA Applications that contain errors can cause processing delays, so you want to make sure that when you and your parent(s) fill out your FAFSA form that you submit it error free! Below are some common errors our office sees when processing FAFSAs, and for more information consult Pro Tips for the FAFSA Form. If you have any questions about the FAFSA completion process, please reach out to us at financialaid@tntech.edu!
Common Errors:
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Make sure you carefully read each question and select/enter the appropriate response to each question. Make sure you do not leave questions blank, as doing so can delay the processing of your application. If you are unsure how to answer certain questions, consult Student Aid's Help Center or reach out to us!
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When prompted, confirm that your name, address, email address, and phone number are accurate and spelled correctly.
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Make sure to enter your Social Security Number and date of birth correctly.
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If a dependent student, when prompted with the question "Direct Unsubsidized Loan Only: Are the student's parents refusing to provide their information on this FAFSA form?" make sure you answer No so your Federal Pell Eligibility can be determined. If you answer Yes you will only receive Unsubsidized Student Loan offers.
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If your parents are divorced or separated, the parent with whom you lived with the most during the past year and is considered your primary caregiver should complete the parent portion of your FAFSA. If this parent has remarried, their spouse must also report his/her income and assets on the FAFSA, even if they were not married during the previous year. Prenuptial agreements are not recognized.
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If a dependent, when you are prompted to Invite Parent(s) to This FAFSA Form, make sure that you input your parent's name, date of birth, Social Security number, and email address correctly. Make sure you receive this information from your parent(s) or make sure they are available to provide you this information before starting your FAFSA!
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When prompted, make sure you review and confirm that all answers entered in your application are correct. If a dependent, make sure you digitally sign the form so that the application can be sent to your parent(s) for them to complete their portion.
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If you are submitting a physical FAFSA form, make sure all the necessary contributors sign the form, such as your parent or spouse. An unsigned form will be returned to you and cause significant delays, so make sure all signatures are acquired before mailing. Make sure you sign the form in blue or black ink if submitting a paper FAFSA.
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If mailing your FAFSA, do not include supplemental documentation with the form when you mail it. If you have questions or concerns regarding unusual family financial circumstances, contact your school's financial aid administrator to request a Professional Judgment review. Any additional documentation enclosed with your submitted FAFSA application will be discarded. Likewise, do not write comments or notes in the margins of the paper form.
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If mailing your FAFSA, make a copy of the form before mailing it for your records.
You can complete the FAFSA application on studentaid.gov. If you require a physical copy of the FAFSA application, you can find and print one out on our Complete a FAFSA page!
Questions? Schedule a Meeting!
If you have any questions about the FAFSA application or need assistance completing the form, don't worry, we are here for you! 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 in-person or online appointment!
