How and When to Apply for Financial Aid

All law students are considered self-supporting for federal financial aid purposes. Parental income/asset information is not considered in determining your financial need.

1. Complete and file the current Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Since some funds are limited, it is important to file the FAFSA and submit all required documents as soon as possible after January 1 of the current year. You may use reasonable estimates of your past year's income to allow you to complete the FAFSA early.  The federal school code for the University of Iowa is 001892.

2. Complete and return your current year's University of Iowa Verification Form (IVF) as soon as possible. You may access it through ISIS. Students will receive a  postcard with instructions regarding the IVF three to four weeks after you file your current year's FAFSA.

3. Submit a signed and dated photocopy of your past year's Federal Income Tax Return (including all schedules) or IRS Form 1722 to the UI Office of Student Financial Aid, 208 Calvin Hall, Iowa City, IA 52242. If you will not file a past year's federal income tax return, you will be asked to verify this on the University of Iowa Verification Form. We recommend that you mail the tax return(s) and IVF together.

4. Authorization for direct deposit of financial aid can now be authorized via ISIS (under Student Records/Bank Information).  Students may also set up automated payment deduction plans directly from this location.
   
   
5. Complete the Direct Loans Master Promissory Note(s)  (MPN). You must use your U.S. Department of Education-issued PIN to complete the electronic MPN.  For questions please go to PIN site or PIN Customer Service. This MPN only needs to be completed once during law school.
   
   
6. First-time borrowers of the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan must visit This Page and complete the Entrance Counseling requirement. This only needs to be completed once during law school.
   
   
7. In order to borrow under the Direct PLUS Loan program, you must complete a new PLUS Master Promissory Note (MPN) on-line using your federal PIN number.
   
   
8. It is important to keep your address and graduation date current with the University Registrar's Office.
   
   
9. Your admission deposit will be credited on your August U-bill. This will be done automatically; no further action needs to be done on your part.

REMEMBER: You must reapply for financial aid every year.

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