The financial aid process can be complicated. Check out the most frequently asked questions about financial aid.

When Do I Have to Pay It Back?
Your financial aid is personalized for your situation. Grants generally do not need to be repaid unless you fail to meet the award requirements. Some scholarships and stipends have employment, research, or community service requirements. Some loans come with grace periods tied to your enrollment status, some repayment plans begin immediately after disbursement, and interest rates are often different. Make sure you know the rules for each of your financial aid awards.

How Will My Aid Arrive? 
Aid disbursement information is usually detailed on the paperwork you receive when you're initially awarded the aid. You receive a check in the mail or your aid can be credited directly to your institutional account. The timing of your financial aid disbursement may also vary. If your aid will not arrive until September and your educational program begins in August, you may need to have some extra cash ready ahead of time to pay expenses. Contact your financial aid office if you have questions that are not answered by the award information you receive.

What if my Circumstances Change? 
Your financial aid package is customized specifically for you. Taking more or fewer classes could affect the amount of aid you receive. Make sure you know the details about your scholarship, grant, work-study, or loan and notify your financial aid office or lender if  your income or student status changes.

Who Should I Contact With Questions?
There are a number of resources that can answer your specific questions. If you have a loan with a private lender, contact that lender with questions or problems. The FAFSA Web site can also answer basic questions about Federal student aid. If you have an RA or TA, contact your department office for questions. Your primary resource for most Federal and institutional aid questions should be your school's financial aid office.