Frequently Asked Questions

> Financial Aid

How do I apply for financial aid?

Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). File your FAFSA for FREE at https://studentaid.gov/.  The University of Silicon Valley Title IV code for the FAFSA is 001177.


Can I complete the FAFSA if I have not yet completed my taxes?

Yes. You may estimate income information in order to complete the FAFSA. Be sure to update this information after your taxes have been completed.


Must I be accepted for admission before I apply for financial aid?

No. However, you must be admitted to receive a final financial aid award letter.


Do I have to apply for financial aid each year?

Yes. Your financial situation must be reassessed each year.


I want to apply for a scholarship only. Do I have to fill out the FAFSA?

No. However, to be considered for scholarships where financial need is a criteria, you must complete the FAFSA.


I know I filled out a FAFSA and sent it in at least four weeks ago, but I have not received a Student Aid Report (SAR). What should I do?

Call the US Department of Education's Public Inquiry Contractor: 800.4.FED.AID, contact the financial aid office, or check the status of your FAFSA online at https://studentaid.gov/.


What is an Expected Family Contribution?

This is the amount that the federal government has determined your family can contribute to your education throughout the year. This number is not your final costs to the college, rather, it’s used when determining eligibility for certain financial aid programs, including the Federal Pell Grant.


What is a promissory note?

A promissory note is a signed legal document that indicates your promise to repay your student loan and formalizes your agreement to abide by its terms and conditions. The Stafford Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) is a contract between you and your lender and is good for either a single or multiple academic years. The Master Promissory Note may be completed at https://studentaid.gov/mpn/.


What is a disclosure statement?

A disclosure statement is an estimate of the actual cost of your loan and includes interest rates, fees, loan balance, and the size and number of payments. Due to the variable nature of interest rates and your individual circumstances, the actual cost of the loan may change.


Can I prepay my student loan?

Yes. You have the freedom to prepay all or part of you loans without penalty.


Who do I contact if I have more questions regarding Financial Aid?

You may contact the Financial Aid Office at 408.498.5100, or stop by and we will provide you with detailed Financial Aid assistance.

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