New Student Tips

Here are some tips that the staff in the Financial Aid Office at Westfield State University recommends all families follow:

• Meet all deadlines.  The amount of financial aid that you will receive is directly related to the date the federal processor receives your FAFSA, and the date that you complete your financial aid file at Westfield State.

• You are responsible for all communications sent to you at your Westfield State University email address.

• You must reapply for financial aid each year prior to the March 1 priority deadline.

• Include the student’s name and/or the student’s social security number or college wide ID on all documents and letters mailed to the college. College wide ID is preferred.

• Establish a financial aid folder for yourself and stay organized.

• If you are borrowing a Federal Student Loan, make sure that you have completed both Entrance Counseling and have signed your Master Promissory Note.  Make sure said note is signed if you are a Perkins Loan recipient.

• Respond to all requests in a timely manner.  If additional documents are requested of you, your financial aid award will be delayed until you have responded.  We will notify you during the course of the semester of any additional responsibilities associated with receiving financial aid.

• Understand that dependant, undergraduate students who borrow their maximum federal loan eligibility for four years will graduate with $27,000 in student loan debt. This can equate to approximately $300 per month over a standard, ten year repayment term.

• The Financial Aid Office is always here to assist you.  Please call our office if you have questions regarding to your financial aid.