How long does it take, on average, to get accepted or denied for financial aid? (College)?

Question

How long does it take, on average, to get accepted or denied for financial aid? (College)?

Answer 1

You should have found out by now if you filed before the deadline. My students have all received a SAR. Be sure to check your status on:http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

Answer 2

I have seen things processed in as little as 4 weeks, but sometimes that is even pushing it.  And if you are at a large school the time can vary a great deal.

I would say at least 12 weeks from start to finish.  Applying for fin aid is a PROCESS that has many steps and involves several agencies and departments.  

Ideally, you should apply for fafsa in Feb/March for finanical aid for the following spring semster.  (yes this is up to 8 months early) because many programs and schools have very early deadlines.  There is nothing worse than starting school with no money to pay for it.

Answer 3

mains  if it is the FAFSA it depends on how you filed it, but generally within 2 weeks.  unfortunatly most universities are much slower.

My university ( a small public university 2 hours outside of Houston) took 2 months to award me my aid.  It might be best if it has been more than 3 weeks to make a phone call or 2 to see how things are going