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When applying for financial aid, do not wait. The entire process takes at least 12 weeks, and if all of the information submitted is complete and accurate. So it is important for you to get started as soon as possible and take the time to make sure you have completed all the right forms. Financial aid is not awarded until all required documents have been received by the Office of Financial Aid.
Step 1
Complete and mail the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in the envelope provided, or go to the FAFSA to complete application on-line. With the information provided, a Student Aid Report (SAR) will be generated for your records. In order to ensure that TMSL receives the SAR promptly include the Federal School Code and Housing Code on page 6 of the FAFSA. The Texas Southern's Federal School Code is 003642. When you list our Federal School Code, the Department of Education will release an electronic record of your financial information to the Financial Aid Office. We are not able to process your financial aid application until a valid electronic record is received from the U.S. Department of Education.
Step 2
If Part I of SAR states you have been selected for the verification process, submit a Verification Form to TMSL along with a signed copy of your previous federal tax return.
Step 3
Once your file is complete, TMSL will review all the forms you submitted to determine your eligibility for grants, Federal Work-Study and loans.
Step 4
A TMSL award letter explaining your aid offer will be mailed to you. If your award includes a Federal Stafford Student Loan, you must complete other compliance forms. The award letter and the additional forms must be signed and returned to TMSL. You must indicate your lender choice and complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN).
Step 5
Money received from scholarships, grants and institutional loans will be applied to your university student account at the Texas Southern University. After payment of tuition and fees, any remaining funds will be refunded by check.
Things to Remember
- The priority date for submitting all documents required for financial aid awards is April 15.
- Eligible non-citizens are required to submit a copy of their immigration visa and additional documents, if requested.
- You must be admitted to Texas Southern University before financial aid can be awarded.
- Satisfactory academic progress must be maintained in order to continue to receive financial aid.
Types of Aid
- Scholarships - Funds awarded based on academic excellence in a specific activity or upon criteria provided by scholarships donor. The funds can also be based on financial need. Generally, these funds do not have to be repaid.
- Grants - Funds awards by the Financial Aid Office based on financial need. Some grants have additional requirements. Generally, these funds do not have to be repaid.
- Loans - Funds awarded by the Financial Aid Office that must be repaid with interest.
- Federal Work-Study - A program that provides jobs for graduate students with financial need, allowing them to help pay educational expenses. Students work either on-campus or at an off-campus non-profit organization. Students are paid at least minimum wage. In order to be considered for the FWS program, students must request Student Employment on the FAFSA.
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