Application Process for Financial Aid
The financial aid office at Lakeside is committed to helping students and families to secure financial assistance needed for the cost of education. We realize that, while necessary, applying for financial aid is not a very customer-friendly process. We can, however, help you understand the process and help you understand the funding options available to you.
For specifics on the process of applying for financial aid, please visit:
Steps to apply for aid
SUBMIT the FAFSA (School code 030074)
All students who wish to be considered for federal financial aid must complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA should be completed online as soon as possible after January 1 for the upcoming academic year.
RETAIN a copy for your records
Keep a copy of the FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA for your file. Also, be sure to retain copies of all the documentation used to complete the FAFSA as that documentation may be requested later.
CHECK your email for FAFSA results
Within approximately four weeks of completing the FAFSA, you should receive a SAR (Student Aid Report) indicating that your FAFSA has been processed and sent to the institutions you designated. If you provided an email address, you will receive an email notification with instructions for viewing and printing your SAR. If you did not provide a valid email address, a paper SAR will be mailed to you. Check the SAR for accuracy, and make sure that Lakeside is listed as a recipient of your information. If Lakeside is listed as a recipient of your data, that information should be transmitted electronically to the financial aid department for review.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
- Copy of drivers’ license
- Social Security card
- HS diploma/transcript
- Financial Aid demographic sheet with references
Forward these documents to the financial aid department upon completion of your financial aid application.
You may also be required to submit copies of tax returns, verification worksheets, or other documentation to complete your financial aid application. The financial aid coordinator will advise you as to if these documents are needed. Respond promptly to these requests to assure timely processing of your application.
RECEIVE your award letter
Once you have been admitted you will receive an award letter.
REVIEW the award information carefully.
Be sure to read the materials accompanying your award letter for conditions and responsibilities and policy on satisfactory academic progress. Verify that the award assumptions are correct. Changes to your enrollment status, housing plans, residency status, or other changes may result in changes to your award. If any of the assumptions are incorrect, you must inform the financial aid department.
COMPLETE Entrance Loan Counseling
All students at Lakeside will participate in entrance counseling the day of orientation prior to the start of school. The financial aid coordinator will explain your rights and responsibilities as a borrower and explain the different types of aid available. You will also meet individually with the financial aid coordinator to review your award letter and to answer any questions you may have as it relates to your award package.
COMPLETE the Master Promissory Note (MPN) for any loans you will borrow
For first time borrowers of a Federal Stafford loan, Direct Loans requires that you sign a paper promissory note. You will meet with the financial aid coordinator after the first day of class to review your official award letter and to sign your promissory note. At this time you will get a copy of the award letter and the promissory note for your records. Your promissory note must be signed before any funds will be disbursed to you.
