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Common Application Errors
- You must complete and sign the FAFSA in its entirety. Since dependent students must provide parent information, a parent must sign the FAFSA as well. If completing the FAFSA online without a PIN, you must print a signature page, sign, and mail to the Central Processing Service (CPS) Center, as instructed in the FAFSA. (NOTE:To obtain a PIN, go to www.pin.ed.gov. Provide the Department of Education (DOE) with your name, Social Security Number, date of birth, and mailing address; and upon verification of the information, DOE will mail the PIN to the applicant. Both students and parents can apply for a PIN.)
- If you are a recent high school graduate, your grade level will be: "never attended college & 1st year undergraduate". (Step 1, Question 24)
- You must answer the Illegal Drug Offense(s) question. (Step 1, Question 31)
- If your parents are divorced, report tax information for the supporting parent only. If that parent has remarried, you must also include your step-parent's income.
- Double-check your Social Security Number and date of birth. This information must be correct or the processing of your FAFSA application will be delayed.
- Use your full, legal name on the FAFSA. Do not use nicknames.
- Do not leave dollar amount questions blank. Enter zero (0) if not applicable.
- Be sure to list your school's Title IV school code on the FAFSA. (Step 6, Question 86).
(NOTE: MSU's Title IV school code is 003592).
Other Tips to Remember
- You must submit a FAFSA each year. We encourage you to complete a new FAFSA no later than February of each year for the upcoming MSU award year (Summer term(s), Fall and Spring semesters, respectively).
- Missing the priority deadline dates can limit the amount of aid for which you will be considered.
- Quickly respond to ALL Missing Information Letters.
- Indicate the student's name and Social Security Number on all documents returned to the MSU Financial Aid Office.
- Keep a copy of your / spouse's / parents' tax returns and W2's. These will be needed to complete the FAFSA and may be requested by the Financial Aid Office for verification.
- Be sure to complete the application process with the Admissions Office.
- If you do not receive a SAR after submitting your application, contact the Central Processing Service (CPS) Center at 1-800-433-3243 to check the status of your FAFSA application.
- Keep a record of all previous loans, including the Master Promissory Note and disclosure statements.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions if you are unclear on the application process. You may email the MSU-FAO should you have any specific questions.
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