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Citizens Bank prides itself on making education possible for students and their families. Offering both federal and private loans, we walk families through every step in the financial aid process, even those confusing forms! Below are some tips to keep in mind when completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid, otherwise known as your FAFSA, the first step to securing federal Stafford loans.

Snail Mail vs. E-Mail

• Filing electronically is much quicker. Paper copies of the form take 4-6 weeks to get processed while electronic forms only take 7-10 days.
• The electronic form also helps ensure that the information is filled out correctly, since it must be completed before you can advance to the next page.
• To file electronically visit www.fafsa.ed.gov
• You can obtain a paper copy of the FAFSA from your high school's guidance office or the college or university you plan on attending.

Start at the Beginning

• Make sure you read the directions carefully and fill in all the required information.
• When filling out a section of the form that applies to you, do not leave anything blank! Instead, you should fill out the word "none" or N/A.
• Make sure to complete only sections that are applicable. For example: Do not complete the Parent section if you are an independent student.
• Make sure to complete your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1st, 2004 if you plan to enter school in the Fall of 2004.

Deadlines, Deadlines and more Deadlines!

• Freshmen often have earlier deadlines than returning students.
• Deadlines are the dates forms should be received. Make sure to allow enough travel time (especially via mail) for the form to reach its destination before the actual due date.
• Make sure to check School AND State specific deadlines. They are usually earlier than deadlines for Federal Aid.
• Don't wait until your taxes are filed to complete your FAFSA! You can fill in your estimated income and then simply complete your taxes as soon as possible thereafter.

More Info Please

• Some schools require additional forms to be filled out along with the FAFSA. Check with the school you are attending to be sure that you completed all of the necessary forms!
• Make sure to respond promptly to any verification requests. Delays could jeopardize your financial aid award.

Be a Copycat

• It is extremely important to make or print copies of EVERYTHING before you send it! Keep a folder of all your financial aid information including forms, tax returns, W-2's, etc. Having a folder will also make the verification process more efficient since all the necessary information is in one place!

Help!

• For questions about your FAFSA or Financial Aid in general you can contact The Citizens Bank Education Finance Team at 800-708-6684 or email educationfinance@citizensbank.com. We have former financial aid directors on staff to answer your specific questions.