Step 1: Fill out a FAFSA
Step 2: Review your financial aid award
Step 3: Apply for a U.S. Bank loan

Step 1: Fill out a FAFSA

Fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSASM), which determines how much you and your family must contribute each year for your education. Check with your school to make sure you have all the forms you need since some schools require you to also use their own applications.

Request a PIN To speed up completing your FAFSA, you can sign it electronically using a Personal Identification Number (PIN). To request a PIN from the U.S. Department of Education click here.

You can get a FAFSA:

• Online
• At your high school guidance office
• From the college you plan to attend, or
• By calling 1-800-4 FED AID

Complete the FAFSA and submit it to the processor as soon as possible. A few weeks after you submit your application, you and the schools you have designated on your FAFSA will receive your Student Aid Report. This report includes information from your application, including the amount you and your family are expected to contribute for your education.

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Step 2: Review your financial aid award

Your college financial aid office will use your Student Aid Report to create a custom financial aid package for you. They will send this information in an "Award Letter." This letter will show your expected family contribution and the types and amounts of financial aid for which you qualify. At this point you need to let the office know if you accept or reject the aid offered in the package.

Your award letter may note that your family has the ability to pay a specified amount toward your education. But that doesn't always mean you have the funds available. Many families need additional money to meet their expected family contribution. U.S. Bank Federal Stafford, Federal PLUS, or Supplementary loans can help.

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Step 3: Apply for a U.S. Bank loan

If your package includes a loan, you need to complete an application and indicate that U.S. Bank is your lender. Your school may send you the application(s) you need or instruct you where to apply. If you don't receive an application from your school, you may apply now, request information, or call 1-800-242-1200, and we'll provide you an application.

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