National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators

NASFAA University Self-Study Guides

We're pleased to introduce Self-Study Guides as part of NASFAA University. Self-Study Guides are the answer to your training needs. Written for the independent learner, each Self-Study Guide includes multiple lessons with a variety of exercises to reinforce each lesson.  You'll do independent study and take quizzes in a traditional paper format (not online). Then you can qualify to take an examination and earn a professional credential. NASFAA University Self-Study Guides are available for purchase in our online store as downloadable PDF documents or printed books.

Self-Study Guides include:

• Learning objectives 
• Key concepts
• Quick quizzes
• Reflection questions
• Learning activities

Self-Study Guide Topics 

Choose from five topics available this year in Self-Study Guides, including the newest release, Direct Loans Part 1.

Overview of the Financial Aid Programs

Introduces the federal student aid programs, providing information on the Title IV programs, state aid, the Health and Human Services (HHS) programs, and other sources of financial assistance. Order the Overview of the Financial Aid Programs Self-Study Guide.

Student Eligibility

Provides an overview of general student eligibility criteria and documentation requirements, acquaints participants with the role of the Central Processing System (CPS), the student eligibility database matches, and the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), as well as how certain educational programs affect student eligibility. Order the Student Eligibility Self-Study Guide.

Return of Title IV Funds

Gives an overview of the provisions and examines how to handle a student's Title IV funds when they withdraw from school before completing the payment period or period of enrollment. In addition, the guide teaches you how to properly identify a Title IV recipient and the formula associated with the return of Title IV funds. Order the Return of Title IV Funds Self-Study Guide. 

Need Analysis

Can you clearly explain to your students how their Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is determined? The Need Analysis Self-Study Guide reviews the calculation of a student's expected family contribution (EFC), and includes a discussion of the regular and simplified formulas as well as recalculations. Bonus material: Included with this Guide is an optional lesson on institutional methodology, developed in collaboration with the College Board. Order the Need Analysis Self-Study Guide. 

 NEW! Direct Loans: Eligibility and Frequency

Direct Loans: Eligibility and Frequency covers the fundamentals of the Federal Direct Student Loan (Direct Loan) programs, including loan types, loan features, and borrower eligibility. In addition, you will learn how to calculate loan amounts, including frequency of borrowing, annual and aggregate loan amounts, and proration. Guide activities, such as quick quizzes, learning activities, and reflection questions, reinforce key concepts and enhance the learning process. Individuals who complete this self-study guide must also complete the second Direct Loans self-study guide, Direct Loans: Counseling Requirements and Repayment, before taking the credential test for Direct Loans. The second self-study guide will be available in May, and the test available in August. Order the Direct Loans: Eligibility and Frequency Self-Study Guide (PDF only).