Lafayette determines a family’s need based on its institutional methodology and a comprehensive review of data from the CSS Profile along with federal tax returns, schedules, W-2s for parent(s) and student, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If applicable, supplemental forms are also required.
- The Profile may be filed as early as Oct. 1, but no later than Feb. 15, 2008. (www.collegeboard.com)
- The FAFSA may be filed as early as Jan. 1, 2008, but no later than
Feb. 15, 2008. (www.FAFSA.ed.gov)
- Applicants must submit signed copies of the 2007 federal tax returns along with all schedules and W-2s for both student and parent(s) and any applicable supplemental forms by March 15, 2008.
Lafayette uses the Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC) of the College Board to process the required 2007 tax returns for students and parents. Once you have completed the Profile, a cover sheet and instructions on how to submit the required signed tax returns, together with all W-2’s and schedules directly to the College Board will be provided.
- Financial aid applicants who complete the application requirements by the specified deadlines and are accepted under Lafayette’s regular admission program will be notified of aid awards within two weeks of receiving their admissions decision and no later than April 10, 2008.
- Lafayette cannot guarantee consideration for College-funded grants if the required documents are not received by the specified deadlines.
- Financial aid is limited to eight semesters. Students who wish to pursue a five-year, two-degree program must seek approval and request consideration for an additional two semesters of aid. Awards may be limited by the availability of funds.
- Appeals or changes in circumstances (such as unanticipated medical expenses, changes in employment, disability, etc.) may be submitted in writing to the director of financial aid and must include supporting documentation. Revisions are subject to availability of funds, demonstrated need, and merit of the appeal.
- The federal government requires Lafayette to verify information provided on the FAFSA. Applicants selected for verification will be notified and may need to provide additional information before financial aid can be disbursed. The financial aid office reserves the right to request Form 4503 from families for tax/income confirmation from the IRS if warranted during the file review.
- Students seeking aid from Lafayette must apply for federal and state aid by filing the FAFSA by the specified deadlines. Federal and state aid will replace the institutional grant portion of a student’s need-based financial aid award.
- If applicable, supplemental forms (such as the Noncustodial Parent’s Profile and Business/Farm Supplement) are also required.
Supplemental Forms
When a student’s parents are separated or divorced, Lafayette requires financial information from both parents. The custodial parent must file the Profile and FAFSA; the noncustodial parent must file the Noncustodial Parent’s Profile. Both must submit 2007 federal tax returns along with schedules and W-2s. In unusual cases, we may waive the noncustodial requirement. Unusual cases may include: no contact or support for the past 10 years, incarceration, domestic abuse cases and/or other extenuating circumstances. If you feel your case requires special consideration, please request a Request for Waiver by calling the financial aid office and return to us along with any relevant information you would like us to review. Please be assured that all information is treated with utmost confidentiality. The College is committed to assisting families with the funding of your Lafayette education however, we are unable to replace the parents' contribution based on refusal to submit the required forms and/or voluntary reduction or termination of parental support.
Parents and students who own a business or farm must submit the Business/Farm Supplement as well as corporate/partnership returns. This form is provided to you through filing the CSS Profile.
Early Decision
Lafayette guarantees to meet the demonstrated financial need of students admitted under the Early Decision Plan who adhere to the following criteria for consideration. Early-decision candidates who apply for financial aid are required to file the CSS Profile with
estimated information as early as Oct. 1, but no later than two weeks after filing the admissions application, and must also file the FAFSA by Feb. 15, 2008. Copies of 2006 tax returns, W-2s, schedules, and any supplements are required for the initial determination of need. Signed copies of 2007 tax returns along with schedules and W-2s for both student and parent(s) must be submitted through the College Board’s IDOC service (along with the required cover sheet) by March 15, 2008. Cover sheets are available at IDOC.collegeboard.com.
International Students
International students must complete the International Student Financial Aid Application (available from Lafayette, or here). Funding is limited and may affect the admission decision.
If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident living abroad, you must also complete the International Student Financial Aid Application along with the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
Transfer Students
Spring 2008 transfer applicants should submit the 2007-08 Profile, FAFSA, and 2006 federal tax returns, schedules, and W-2s for both student and parent(s) by Oct. 1, 2007.
Fall 2008 transfer applicants should submit the 2008-09 Profile, FAFSA, and signed copies of 2007 federal tax returns for student and parent(s) by April 1, 2008. College-funded aid for transfer students is highly competitive and subject to availability of funds. |