FINANCIAL AID: Frequent Questions
Q: Are there deadlines in applying for financial aid?
A: You may apply for financial aid at any time; however, priority deadlines do exist depending on the type of financial aid you are seeking. Please see What Types of Financial Aid Are Available for specific deadlines.
Q: What types of financial aid programs does Columbia State offer?
A: Scholarships are generally awarded for academic achievement, participation in school activities, financial need, community involvement and major emphasis of study. Grants do not have to be repaid. Eligibility is based on financial need. Work provides part-time jobs to help with educational costs. The student’s work schedule is built around his or her academic schedule. Eligibility is based on financial need and/or job skills. Loans must be repaid or cancelled in accordance with specific program regulations. Eligibility is based on financial need.
Q: How do I apply for a student loan?
A: Federal Stafford Loan Mastery Promissory Note applications can be obtained at your bank or any Columbia State location. To ensure that funds will be available for the start of the semester, submit the application and other requested documents prior to July for the following fall semester or November for the spring semester. All loan borrowers must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit all required documents before submitting a loan application to the school for processing.
Q: How will I know if I can receive financial aid?
A: After the financial aid process has been completed, a letter of award will be mailed to you at the address listed on your application. The letter will indicate the amount of aid you can receive based on a full-time enrollment status.
Q: What is verification?
A: The U.S. Department of Education randomly selects students for verification of information submitted on the FAFSA. If selected, you are notified on your Federal Student Aid Report (FSAR). The Office of Financial Aid will notify you of the proper documentation to submit to our office.
Q: If I am transferring to Columbia State will my financial aid transfer too?
A: If you transfer to Columbia State, your financial aid does not automatically transfer with you. You must follow the procedures necessary to continue receiving financial aid at Columbia State. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid for complete details.
Q: Can I receive financial aid for summer classes?
A: If you have not received your full yearly amount of Federal Pell Grant by the end of the spring semester, you may receive a Federal Pell Grant for the summer term.
Q: Is my financial aid automatically renewed each year?
A: No, renewal of financial aid is not automatic. Students must file a FAFSA each year and demonstrate satisfactory progress.
Q: What is satisfactory progress?
A: Satisfactory progress is attending classes, maintaining at least a 2.0 GPA, passing a minimum number of hours during the academic semester and attempting no more than 96 of the hours required to complete a degree or 150% of the hours required to complete a certificate. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid for the Satisfactory Progress Standards.
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