Five Ways to Maximize Your Financial Aid
At Upper Iowa University, we take financial aid seriously. Our Financial Aid Office is here to help you find the most financial aid possible. Follow these pointers to maximize your financial aid rewards:
1. Complete your FAFSA early and accurately.
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the most important step in the financial aid process. It’s available online on January 1, and the earlier you complete it, the more financial aid you may be able to receive. It’s important to double-check your financial aid application for accuracy, and fill in every blank.
2. Maximize your investments for maximum financial aid.
Financial aid is based primarily on your income, but some income is considered exempt by the federal government. Work with your personal financial advisor to make adjustments—such as increasing contributions to retirement accounts—that may favorably affect your financial aid award.
3. Financial aid does depend on grades—keep them up.
Your grades aren’t only important before you apply for college. UIU has minimum academic requirements for maintaining financial aid rewards. Remember that you must reapply for financial aid every year, so keeping up your GPA is crucial.
4. Supplement your financial aid package with scholarships.
Scholarships are a great part of your financial aid package because, unlike loans, you don’t have to repay them. You may be eligible for a UIU Merit Scholarship, but additional private, independent scholarship opportunities abound. Check out Fast Web for one list.
5. Talk to us at the Financial Aid Office.
UIU’s Financial Aid Office is here to help you. If your financial situation changes at any time during the application process, let us know. If you’re confused or simply want to discuss financial aid options, contact us.
E-mail: financialaid@uiu.edu
Phone: 800-553-4150, ext. [2+4]; or 563-425-5274
