How to Avoid Problems

Come to the institution with some money of your own. Even if your aid is prepared on time, funds may not be available until classes begin and processing is complete. You will need money for housing, books, and other immediate expenses. As a First time freshman you may NOT have enough Financial Aid to buy your books, so come prepared for that expense. If you are able to save money during the summer before school starts, these savings will be useful in meeting your beginning-of-the semester expenses and protecting you from hardships if your aid is delayed.

Register for the appropriate number of credits. You must register for the appropriate number of credits which correspond to the funding level indicated on your Financial Aid Award letter.

Be sure to complete a loan/debt management counseling session if you are a first-time borrower at MSU-Northern. This may be completed online at http://www.mapping-your-future.org or at the Financial Aid Office. Your funds will be delayed until you complete this requirement.

Pay your own fees and other charges by the due date if your aid is late. Fees are due at the beginning of each semester. If not paid when due, you are subject to a late fee and/or cancellation of registration. The Financial Aid Office may be able to offer you assistance depending on the nature of the processing problem but cannot prevent cancellation for non-payment of fees. If you anticipate problems see either the Financial Aid Office or the Business Office for assistance.

If you are not sure how dropping or adding classes will affect your aid status, do not drop any of your classes or withdraw from MSU-Northern without checking first with the Financial Aid Office. If you drop below the required minimum credit load or fail to complete the appropriate number of credits, your aid may be canceled and repayment of the aid may be required.

Please notify the Financial Aid Office of any changes in either your permanent or school address.