Although Elms College offers financial aid only once a student has been accepted, there’s no such thing as applying too soon. Just follow this useful timeline to tell you where you should be in the process.
OCTOBER
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available October 1. For priority consideration, the FAFSA is due March 1 for new students and March 15 for returning students.
JANUARY
Spring semester bills are due for returning students. Accounts not paid in full or cleared by financial aid or payment plan are subject to a late fee (1.5% per month).
FEBRUARY
If selected for a process called Verification, submit signed copies of tax returns and other documents as requested by the Financial Aid Office.
MARCH
Beginning in mid-March, award letters are mailed to new students with a complete financial aid application.
MAY
May 1 is the National Candidate Reply Date and the deadline to apply for Massachusetts state aid. Early May award letters are mailed to returning students who met the priority filing deadlines.
JUNE
June 1 is the best time to sign up for the college’s monthly payment plan. In late June, fall semester bills are mailed.
JULY
In mid-July, begin research and application for alternative financing, if needed.
AUGUST
Fall bills and all related documents are due August 1. Accounts not paid in full or cleared by financial aid or payment plan are subject to a late fee (1.5% per month).
DECEMBER
Spring semester bills are mailed in early December.