If you filed a FAFSA last year (either on the WEB or paper version), there are two ways that you can reapply for aid.

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Renewal FAFSA

Which way is better?

If you are familiar with computers, choose the FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA on the WEB.The advantages of filing on the WEB are:

• FAFSA's are processed much quicker at the Central Processing Center (CPS)
• Lower chance of errors (0.2% vs 12% with paper FAFSAs!)

If you or your parents are not familiar with computers, the paper version is best. .

What is a PIN # and how do I get one?

A PIN# allows you to access your renewal FAFSA information, and will allow you to make changes to the current year's FAFSA once you have filed. Getting a PIN # is easy, you can request one at www.fafsa.ed.gov or www.pin.ed.gov

Paper FAFSA and Renewal FAFSA

• Make sure you list OIT (003211) as a school choice--if you are filing a renewal FAFSA, make sure you fill in that bubble!
• Make a copy of your FAFSA prior to mailing for your records.
• We recommend mailing in the postcard that is included with the FAFSA booklet. The CPS will date stamp it and return it to you--that's your proof you filed!
• OIT has a priority deadline of February 1st, for the 2007-2008 and 2008-2098 award year. In order to be considered in the Priority Pool, your FAFSA must be completely processed (with a valid efc) by the federal processor.
• Use estimated information if you and/or your parents have not yet filed your federal taxes in order to make the priority deadline.
• Remember to double check all of your information before sending to avoid mistakes and delay.
  

WEB Filers

• FAFSA is Free, don't pay to file it.
• Remember to electronically sign your FAFSA with you/and or your parents PIN number or print the signature page. If you are filing as a dependent, your parents must complete the signature page also. The CPS won't process your FAFSA without the necessary signatures.
• Make sure you get the conformation screen with a confirmation number--this should be the last thing you see before you log off. If you don't see this information, the CPS does not have your FAFSA!
• Use estimated information if you and/or your parents have not yet filed in order to make the priority deadline.