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How to Apply for Financial Aid

Paying for college shouldn’t hold you back. Follow these simple steps to unlock scholarships, grants, and aid programs that make Northwestern State University an incredible value.

A group of NSU students walk to class at the Leesville campus

Step 1: Apply

Apply for Admission

Begin your journey by applying to NSU.

 

How to Apply

Complete the FAFSA

Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

  • Opens each year October 1
  • NSU School Code: 002021
  • Submit before May 1 for priority consideration.
  • Don’t submit before October 1—your application will be rejected.
Complete the Title IV Authorization

Complete the Title IV Authorization

 (One-Time Document)

  • Log into your myNSU account to complete this step.
NSU student poses for a photo in the Alumni Plaza

FAFSA Tips

  • Use your legal name (matching your Social Security Card)
  • Include #002021 as your school code
  • If parents are divorced, report the one who provided more financial support in the last 12 months (include stepparent income if applicable)
  • Sign electronically with your FSA ID and Password
  • Processing takes about 2 weeks — if you don’t receive your FAFSA Submission Summary, call 1-800-433-3243
Group of NSU students gather for a selfie.

Step 2: Complete Your File

FAFSA Processing System

Once your FAFSA is processed by the FAFSA Processing System (FPS):

  • Review your FAFSA Submission Summary for accuracy
  • Make corrections at fafsa.gov if needed
  • Check your NSU email for additional document requests
  • If selected for verification, respond promptly to avoid delays
Students sit in rocking chairs at Varnado Hall

Step 3: Review Your Awards

Award Notifications

When your file is complete, you’ll receive:

  • Award notification by email
  • Detailed award info in myNSU

 

If your award includes loans and you’re a first-time borrower:

 

Accept or decline any Loans or Federal Work Study in your account.

NSU students sit on the front porch of Varnado Hall

Step 4: Disbursement

Disbursement

Funds will be disbursed if all requirements are met. Common delays include:

  • Missing Direct Loan Entrance Counseling
  • Missing Master Promissory Note signatures

Not enrolling at least half-time

A group of NSU students studying under the pavilion on campus

Understanding Verification

 

Verification confirms the accuracy of your FAFSA. If selected:

  • Submit requested tax transcripts, W-2s, and forms promptly
  • Watch your myNSU account for updates
  • Aid eligibility is limited if documents are not submitted before the last day of class
NSU students sit in classroom
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
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