Financial Assistance

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Applying for Financial Aid

Hints and Tips for Applying

  1. The preferred filing date is March 1 for graduate students. A student whose FAFSA is received after the preferred date is awarded on a funds available basis. 
  2. Students are encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) electronically at FAFSA on the Web.
  3. Complete the FAFSA using information from an actual U.S., Puerto Rican, or foreign tax return, or if necessary, using estimated information that is as accurate as possible. Do not leave any blanks on the FAFSA. Inaccurate information on your FAFSA may delay receipt of federal student aid. Also, you will be required to return federal aid you improperly received based upon incorrect information.
  4. On the school release section of your FAFSA, please indicate: University of Miami, Coral Gables and its Institution Code: 001536.
  5. Be sure to use an accurate social security number on all forms.
  6. When completing the FAFSA, remember to include all asset information, such as business equity, stocks, bonds, real estate (not including primary residence) and other investments.
  7. Keep copies of all forms you complete including the FAFSA and tax returns. Also, please respond to any requests for additional information promptly to avoid any delays in the processing of financial assistance.
  8. Make sure to identify any additional information submitted with the student’s name and social security number.
  9. Keep in mind all of the priority deadline dates for outside grants and scholarships for which you are applying.
  10. If you are receiving an outside or departmental scholarship, notify the University of Miami Office of Financial Assistance Services (OFAS) by providing a copy of the scholarship award letter.
  11. Stafford borrowers should make sure to provide Lender and Reference information when completing the promissory note.
  12. All first-time borrowers that have applied for the Stafford Loan are required to complete Entrance Counseling. We encourage you to complete Entrance Counseling online before arriving at the University for registration.
  13. Students are expected to make satisfactory academic progress toward a degree or completion of a recognized certificate while receiving financial assistance.
  14. Remember that you must apply for financial assistance each year. You may submit your FAFSA any time after January 1.