CUC’s Financial aid checklist can help you apply for federal aid (FAFSA):
1
Must be degree-seeking
Apply for (and receive) degree-seeking admission to the university where you will be pursuing a degree. Students admitted with special or non-degree status are not eligible for financial aid.
2
Must take a minimum of six undergraduate credit hours
Enroll in a degree program as at least a part-time student, taking the required number of credits each semester to maintain at least part-time status (6 credit hours). The financial aid is processed at the university delivering your degree program.
3
Create your FAFSA
Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Application is made via the Internet at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. If necessary, call CUC’s Financial Aid Coordinator at (605) 773-3023 for assistance with the application. Turnaround time with the federal processor is approximately three weeks, at which time information on the application will be sent to your university.
4
Must renew your FAFSA every year
You must renew your FAFSA every year, as soon as possible after you complete your tax return. If you are under 24, you are still considered a dependent of your parents and you must have your parents’ tax information from the previous year UNLESS you are married AND/OR have a child.
Alternative funding options for students
CUC also provides alternative funding options for students. If you are at least 18 years old and have a steady income, you have the following funding alternatives:
- Payday loans. The maximum amount you can borrow with a payday loan is $1,000 with a maximum term of 31 days. The repayment takes place online once the paycheck reaches your bank account. You can use it for minor expenses.
- Installment loans. You can get from $1,000 up to $5,000 with a term from 2 up to 24 months. Students can repay them with monthly payments through flexible plans. They use installment loans for medium expenses.
- Personal loans. Students can take up to $15,000 as personal loans for major expenses like paying for higher education. These cash advances are paid with monthly payments.
Before applying for a student cash advance, make sure you get all the needed information concerning student loans in your state. If you have questions, call us at (605) 773-2160, or send us an email at sdsu.cuc@sdstate.edu.