School

The Ultimate Guide To Boston University Financial Aid

Applying to college was beyond tough. Just when you put all of the late-night essay writing and SATs cramming behind you, and just when you thought the hardest part was over, the financial aid process sneaks up on you! What no one tells you is that applying for Boston University financial aid is actually the hardest part of it all. Staying on top of things and prioritizing deadlines is necessary because financial aid is really important, but it can be really overwhelming. Here’s ten tips that’ll lead you towards a stress-free application for Boston University financial aid!

1. Don’t just make a mental note of the deadlines – write them down!

There are two big deadlines that you definitely can’t forget: February 1st for the FAFSA and CSS Profile and May 1st for your enrollment deposit and acceptance of your Boston University financial aid package. However, these forms aren’t the kind of thing you want to procrastinate or forget about, so plan ahead and write things down!

2. Take advantage of all of the Boston University financial aid resources.

The financial aid process can be confusing, but there’s a ton of resources available that help you get through it. BU’s resources are great if you’re ever in doubt or unsure of what to do next! The BU financial aid website is a great start if you’re feeling intimidated. You can also contact them directly via e-mail at finaid@bu.edu or by phone at 617-353-2965 (available Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM).

3. There are tons of different documents and forms you need to pass in, so make sure you don’t forget one!

There’s a lot to do even to just be considered for financial aid, but it’s all worth it in the end, so make sure you stay on top of things and don’t forget about one! BU requires these forms in their financial aid application:

  • FAFSA application (due February 1st, 2017)
  • CSS Profile (due February 1st, 2017)
  • Income Verification
  • Noncustodial Parent Form (if applicable)

4. Understand the requirements and how to go about submitting each of those forms.

Everything is mostly online, so filling out thFse forms and submitting them isn’t too difficult. This page has a very detailed list of what to expect from the Boston University financial aid process as a freshman who applied regular decision. Just make sure you have the right information ready to go to make the process easier! You’re going to need your 2015 tax returns, your parents’ 2015 tax returns, and your parents’ income information on hand while you fill out these forms.

5. Your financial aid notification will take some time, so be patient.

If you applied for financial aid on time, you should expect to get a notification by late March. Make sure you accept your award by May 1st to reserve your offer!

6. You should get a notification e-mail from BU about your financial aid package.

BU will e-mail you when they finalize your financial aid package, which may be a combination of gift aid (like scholarships and grants) and federal aid!

 

7. Your enrollment deposit holds your spot in the class, so don’t forget to send that in!

BU’s enrollment fee is a non-refundable $650. Make sure you send it in by May 1st to reserve your spot in the incoming freshmen class!

See Also

8. What will a year cost me?

The cost-of-attendance for a BU student varies based on whether they choose to commute or live on campus. If you choose to commute, the total cost would be around $57,275/year. If you live on-campus, however, expect an increase to about $68,060/year, which is broken down like this:

  • Tuition: $49,176
  • Fees: $1,064
  • Books/supplies: $1,000
  • Room and board: $14,870
  • Incidentals: $1,950

9. And what does BU usually offer in financial aid to help pay that?

BU calculates their financial aid based on need, so the amount of financial aid awarded is often dependent on income. Here‘s a page from their website that details how much to expect from scholarships and grants depending on your grades and your family’s income.

10. If something changes, you can appeal your aid and have your financial package reviewed.

Nothing is ever concrete, and sometimes an unexpected loss of income or an illness can affect a student’s financial standing. If you think this applies to you, you can easily begin the appeal process in order to get your financial aid package reviewed. This page on BU’s website details what circumstances apply and which ones don’t. Just be sure to send in your appeal form by April 15th!

Featured photo source: www.bcgavel.com
Hannah Cole

Recent Posts

The 10 Best Foods At Walmart For Your Budget

Walmart is a broke college student's, or post grads,  go to hot spot for cheap meal planning and party snacks.…

3 hours ago

Go Down On Her Properly Starring Mila Kunis

Women always are given sex tips about how to give better blow jobs, how to please him etc, etc. There…

8 hours ago

10 Reasons Why Online Classes Will Make Your Life And Your CV Better

Online classes are the best thing that could happen to you and your CV! Not only because you have the…

11 hours ago

The Top 10 Best Food Places In Toms River

There are thousands of reasons to hangout in Toms River, New Jersey but one of the top choices definitely has…

19 hours ago

10 Denim Jacket DIY Tips And Tricks Worth Trying

Denim jackets have been a fashion staple of every decade in America. From the 1950s beatniks to the 90s grunge…

24 hours ago

8 Illegal Interview Questions You Should Never Be Asked

Knowing your rights in any situation is crucial. Believe it or not, job interviews have parameters; there are legal and…

1 day ago