By now, if you filled out the FAFSA for the 2015-2016 school year, you should have received your Student Aid Report (SAR) and most likely got back information on what financial aid you are eligible for.

So what’s next?

Now you need to decide what aid to accept and how to accept it. First things first, you must understand the aid you are being offered (whether it’s grant money or student loans), decide what aid you really need, and then respond to Missouri State’s award letter within the deadline. You should always accept free money first (scholarships and grants) before you accept a bunch of student loans you may not end up needing. Once you accept your financial aid, every school is different, so make sure you call (417-836-5262) or visit the Financial Aid Office in Carrington 101 to find out what to expect and how long it will take to be disbursed to you.

After contacting the Financial Aid Office, you will find out if you need to fill out more paperwork or meet other requirements for your financial aid. If you are receiving a federal student loan for the first time you are required to sign a promissory note and go through entrance counseling.  This can be completed at www.studentloans.gov. If you are ever lost or confused about entrance counseling or signing a master promissory note, contact Real LIFE at 417-836-3186 or visit Carrington 419 to have any questions answered. Our peer financial counselors are here to help you!