Apply for Federal Financial Aid
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if you have not already done so.
Complete verification
You may be selected for verification - the process of confirming that the information reported on the FAFSA by you and your parents or spouse, if applicable is accurate. You will receive a letter from our office which explains what documentation must be provided. Please follow all guidelines and directions outlined in the letter and respond quickly to this request to avoid a delay in processing your student aid
Sign the MPN
Go to studentloans.gov, and select "Complete New MPN for Student Loans," and electronically sign your Federal Direct Stafford Loan MPN using your Federal Student Aid PIN (the one you use to sign your FAFSA on the web). Print and/or save a copy of your completed MPN for your records.
Complete loan entrance counseling
If you are a first-time Federal Stafford Loan borrower, the federal government requires that you complete Loan Entrance Counseling at studentloans.gov. This will ensure you understand the responsibility and obligation you are assuming with the loan.
Complete Plus Loan Application
A parent may borrow up to the total Cost of Attendance less all other financial aid received by the student.
Want to learn how to apply for a federal Parent PLUS Loan at Penn State? Go to studentaid.gov for more information.
Complete your registration
You must confirm your registration on your tuition bill every semester - even when you do not owe a balance on your account - to avoid a delay in the processing of your student aid. For step-by-step tuition bill instructions, please visit: bursar.psu.edu/payment-options.