Getting Started with your Financial Aid Application

Applying for financial aid is easier than you may think. The following is a list of the steps that are required to apply for financial assistance.

  • Create a FSA ID

    To create a FSA ID please visit https://fsaid.ed.gov/npas/index.htm. An FSA ID gives you access to Federal Student Aid’s online systems and can serve as your legal signature.

  • Complete the FAFSA

    Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at https://fafsa.gov/, which is available starting October 1. When completing your FAFSA, be sure to list St. Thomas University by using our school code: 001468.

  • Plan your Budget

    It is important to assure that you have a plan to cover any possible expenses that may come up during your attendance. That is why St. Thomas University advises all students to look at our Cost of Attendance page in order to assist in their budget calculations.

  • Review your Student Aid Report (SAR)

    If you provide a valid email address while completing your FAFSA, you will receive an email from noreply@FAFSA.gov with instructions on how to access an online copy of your SAR. The SAR report contains important information in regards to eligibility for federal financial aid, such as your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), corrections required for your FASFA, etc.

  • Submit Additional Documentation

    Once STU receives your FAFSA, you may be required to submit additional documentation (e.g.; proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizenship, proof of Florida residency for parent and/or student, selective service registration, letter of non-default, etc.). You can view all required documents by logging into your MyBobcat account, and selecting the Financial Aid tab.

Video Guides

How to Navigate the Student Self Service Portal

This video explains how to navigate the Financial Aid Self Service Portal to accept, change, and view your financial aid award package.

Important Dates

Note: The deadline to submit all financial aid documentation is 10 days prior to the beginning of the term. Any documents submitted after this date will be reviewed, but there may be a delay in the disbursement of your financial aid.

October 1
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the new academic year becomes available.

February 1
St. Thomas University’s priority deadline for the upcoming academic year is February 1st. Students who submit all Financial Aid documentation by this deadline will receive priority consideration for limited federal, state, and/or institutional funds. Students who complete their financial aid file after the priority deadline will be processed in order of completion date. Late applicants should plan to have adequate resources to meet their tuition, books, and living expenses.

Loans
Students are required to accept all loan 5 days prior to the end of the semester or 8-week mini-term.

Disbursement Dates
All financial aid funds will be disbursed within the first 2 weeks of the start of the term for students who have met all financial aid requirements.