The following are questions frequently asked about financial aid awards.

Do I Have to Pay It Back?
Each financial aid award comes with its own rules. Grants and scholarships generally do not need to be repaid unless your enrollment status changes, while some awards require employment or community service. Some loans don't need to be repaid right away, some have grace periods, and interest rates are often different. Make sure that you know what the rules are for each of your financial aid awards.

How Will I Receive My Aid?
Awards can arrive in different forms, and you might be looking for a check when your aid is being credited directly to your account. The timing of your financial aid disbursement may also vary. Your award check may not arrive until September or later and if your program begins in August, you may need to have some extra cash ready ahead of time to pay your educational expenses. Contact your financial aid office for information about aid disbursements.

What if my Circumstances Change?
Make sure you know the details about your scholarship, grant, work-study, or loan and notify your financial aid office or lender if anything changes about your income or student status. Your financial aid package is customized specifically for you, and taking more or fewer classes could greatly affect the amount you receive in aid. If you receive a loan based on your parents' income, their financial status could also affect your aid. From interest rates to payment plans to deadlines, a number of aspects of your aid could change. Let your school's financial aid office know if your financial or employment situation changes.

Who Should I Contact About My Financial Aid?
Your primary resource for financial aid questions should be your financial aid office. 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.