<p>I filed my FAFSA the last week of January to ensure that I met Penn State's financial aid priority deadline (FEB 15) so I would get a good amount of money. However, they had my wrong social security number on file so they didn't download my FAFSA (they do it by SSN). I finally called in Mid-March to see what was the problem, and then corrected it. They didn't download my FAFSA until 3/30, way later than the deadline, and I got a pewny $8,000 in grants when my EFC is 0.</p>
<p>I wanted to know if it's possible to get more money next year if I file my FAFSA early? or will I continue to only receive $8,000 a year for all 4 years?</p>
<p>It is possible from what I hear. There is another thread on here where somebody claimed that sophomores and juniors tend to get the most money. Of course, I’d call the office of financial aid to be sure. </p>
<p>Btw…8000 from Penn State is a lot. The average percent of need met is 61%. If you only count the grants, they met about 33% of your need. But I imagine you also received loans which you have to factor in. Ultimately, with your grants and loans combined, your financial aid package may come very close to meeting 61% of your need–the average. So I wouldn’t jump to the conclusion that you didn’t get more money just because your FAFSA was late. Penn State just doesn’t have much money to give to begin with. Of course, this is all purely speculation, so call the office of financial aid to be sure.</p>
<p>They’ve update my financial aid package. Originally, they gave me $8,000, but, the PHEAA Grant kicked in. Now, I’m offered $9,885 each semester.</p>