Yes, you must apply each year to renew your financial aid. The best way is to apply electronically. This method is faster and more accurate -- logic errors are rare, thanks to verification editing programmed throughout the electronic form.
After January 1 but before March 1, review your renewal FAFSA record on the ED web site and revise the information to reflect your income for the preceding year (and other information only if it has changed) and send the application electronically. Be very sure to specify the University of Alabama code 001051 as a recipient of your information. It is not necessary to complete a paper FAFSA if you correctly complete the Renewal FAFSA.
Students are strongly encouraged to apply electronically. Paper FAFSA applications are extremely limited.
When your FAFSA is processed, the Federal Processor will notify you by email. If you have a PIN number, you will be able to view your SAR on the FAFSA Web site. You will receive a paper SAR only if your email address is not provided on the FAFSA.
Regardless of the method you use, remember that the U.S. Department of Education must receive your FAFSA information no later than March 1 in order to be considered for priority need-based funding. If you have not filed your tax returns by March 1, you can use estimated information on the FAFSA but you must later correct this data on your SAR. Please make every effort to apply on time so that you are considered for all types of available aid. If you miss the priority application date (March 1) you may still apply, but some aid may not be available.
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