Checklist

File your FAFSA early

If you're applying for financial aid from The University of Montana or College of Technology, Missoula, you need to include our school code (002536) on your FAFSA application.

File your FAFSA application as soon as possible after January 1st. We recommend filing no later than February 15th for the following aid year (e.g. February 15, 2011 for the aid year beginning in August of 2011). This will allow time to take care of any problems that may arise with your application and maximize your chances of receiving campus-based aid like Work Study.

You need to be admitted to The University of Montana or College of Technology, Missoula, before we can package your financial aid. We recommend you be admitted by March 1st if you want to be considered for campus-based aid.

Receiving your Student Aid Report

When you receive the email to review your Student Aid Report (SAR) from the Federal Processor, check the SAR carefully. If there are errors, submit your corrections to the Department of Education.  To avoid delay in the processing in aid make corrections as early as possible.

Submit requested documents ASAP

You can view required documents on Cyberbear. Be sure the documents you submit are complete and accurate. Incomplete documents will be returned to you, delaying your aid. Check your Cyberbear account often for required documents as additional requirements may be added throughout the processing of your aid. We cannot process your financial aid award until we have all requested documents.

Communication is Key

Most financial aid notices will be sent to your UM Connect and personal email. Please check both email accounts regularly and be sure to keep an active, up to date address and telephone number on CyberBear as continued communication throughout the aid process is vital.

For Stafford loans, sign your promissory note

Accepting a loan on your Initial Notification of aid does not disburse your loan money, you still have to sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN) if you are a new borrower.

As soon as your file is evaluated, we send an email to you and forward pertinent loan information to the Department of Education.  The MPN needs to be signed and the names of two references given. By signing the MPN, you are promising to pay the amount of the loan back per the lending agreement. It takes seven to ten days for us to receive your loan funds from the time you sign the MPN. If your financial aid is completed and awarded before the semester begins, your money is held by the Department of Education until just before classes begin.

If you are a new student at The University of Montana or College of Technology, Missoula, you are required to complete Loan Entrance Counseling, even if you completed it at a previous school.