Student verification sheets
We put the students on a follow-up log if they need verification sheets for their budgets. There is always a time delay for getting these sheets back if they need a parent signature, etc. There should be an easier method for this.
Jessica,
We give the students a hard deadline on when to return their documents. Of course those dependent students are always a little more challenging.
If the student is non-responsive we look to other departments to help us. That may mean academics letting us pull the student from class to holding their book order until their financial aid is clear.
As a last resort we will send out cash payment plans for the expenses that are missing FA due to the student delay in turning in documents. Once they see a cash payment plan they are usually in the next day or calling to see what they need to do.
Kellie,
It sounds like you have two great strategies- reaching out to the classroom is the most direct and nearly foolproof way to ensure a student’s attention. Second, instead of relying passively on the FA process, you created new incentives for students to complete FA requirements- the cash invoice is a great idea!
While not always possible, it is helpful when parents are involved during the admissions and registration process so that we can build a good working relationship with them and help them understand what will be needed from the student and from the student’s family throughout enrollment.
Kellee Gunderson
Our FA dept also give a firm deadline as to when to get paperwork submitted. If they date arrives and paperwork is not received, the student is immediately put on a payment plan and an invoice is handed to the student that day explaining they will continue on cash payment until the paperwork is returned to FA.
Within a day or 2 the paperwork is turned in.
Carol,
Wow, that certainly is an effective strategy!
Since returning deferment forms or applying for income-based repayment plans is not something we can require in the same manner, we are always looking for new and better ways to encourage students to complete discretionary paperwork. Helping students understand all aspects of loan repayment is a challenge, but extremely important.
Kellee Gunderson
