This year’s FAFSA rollout has been anything but smooth. Between processing delays, technical glitches, and school financial aid packages arriving later than ever, students and families are left in limbo—and stressed.

If you’re still waiting on your financial aid award or your FAFSA info hasn’t been processed correctly, you are not alone. Here’s what you can do right now to stay informed, take action, and protect your college plans.

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🎓 1. Check Your FAFSA Status (Again!)

Log in at studentaid.gov to make sure:

• Your FAFSA was submitted (not just saved)
• There are no errors or missing signatures
• Your contributor (typically a parent or spouse) finished their section

If your form shows “Processed,” schools should eventually receive it—but it still may take time.

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🏫 2. Contact the Financial Aid Office Directly

Even if your FAFSA is stuck in the system, call or email the schools you applied to and explain:

• That your FAFSA was submitted
• You’re concerned about delayed award letters
• You still need the aid package to make an informed decision

💡 Many colleges are making case-by-case exceptions or offering estimated aid packages.

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🕐 3. Ask About Deadline Flexibility

Schools know this is a national issue. Ask:

• Can I get an extension to accept my offer?
• Will you hold my place while we wait for aid info?
• Can I appeal my aid offer later if the numbers don’t add up?

📢 Important: Get it in writing if a school grants you extra time.

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💰 4. Estimate Your Aid Using Net Price Calculators

While you wait, use each college’s Net Price Calculator (usually found on their financial aid page) to estimate:

• Scholarships
• Need-based aid
• Total cost of attendance

This gives you a rough idea of what to expect and can help with decision-making or appeal prep.

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📦 5. Plan a Backup Budget

While frustrating, delays don’t have to derail your plans. Start outlining:

• Payment plans or monthly tuition options
• Work-study or part-time job options near campus
• Other scholarships or emergency aid funds

Some students may even consider starting at a community college with guaranteed transfer options to save money.

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🧭 6. Stay Calm, Stay Informed

This FAFSA cycle is frustrating, but you’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. Follow:

• @FAFSA and @usedgov for updates on social media
• Your school’s financial aid office for campus-specific changes
• Your email (daily!) for requests for documentation or updates

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Final Takeaway:

FAFSA delays are real—but so is your power to advocate for yourself. Be proactive, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to follow up (more than once). Colleges want to help you enroll—they just need to hear from you.