Please Remember:

Incorrect addresses are the number one reason students do not receive their financial aid in a timely manner. It is YOUR responsibility to avoid potential problems associated with inaccurate addresses. It is critical that you immediately update your address with the Financial Aid Office, as well as the Admissions & Records Office any time you move, and that you give accurate forwarding instructions to the U.S. Post Office each time you move. It will not be possible to immediately reproduce checks that become delayed or misrouted in the mail.

Students who do not qualify for payment at the beginning of a term will be processed for payment as soon as their award and/or registration status qualifies them for a disbursement. Changes in your enrollment status or enrollment level, receipt of outside aid, etc. may cause a reduction in your financial eligibility and delay payment. You must report all such changes promptly to the Financial Aid Office.

Financial Aid Tips

Never assume you aren't eligible for Financial Aid. You should apply for aid every year, even if you think you don't qualify. There are many factors affecting eligibility for financial aid. For example, a student who didn't qualify one year might become eligible during the next year when a brother or sister enrolls in college. A job loss, divorce or other change in family financial circumstances might affect your eligibility for student aid. Be sure to contact our office if you feel you have special circumstances.

Don't wait until you've been accepted to college to apply for financial aid. If you do, you may miss out on grants, scholarships, and other free money for your education. The Financial Aid process normally takes up to three months from the time of application. Starting the process early will help ensure that your Financial Aid will be ready when school starts.

Spell your name as it appears on your Social Security card. Using a nickname or other name will delay processing.

Don't attach anything to the FAFSA. Don't send any letters, tax forms, or other papers with the FAFSA--they will only be tossed and delay processing. Instead, send any additional information regarding your special circumstances directly to the financial aid office at Cuesta College. Contact us at (805) 546-3143.

If you change schools, your financial aid won't always go with you. To find out how to receive aid at your new college, contact the college's financial aid office. If you have a Cal Grant, you'll need to notify the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) using the Renewal Recipient Change Form attached to the Cal Grant renewal letter.