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Ocelot. New research shows the breakdown between institutions and students rests with inaccessible information, inconsistent advice, and confusing systems. Get the full results, insights, and case studies on how institutions can scale the personal touch and bridge the engagement gap. Download the report.

A retroactive payment is made while the student is still enrolled for the award year (or loan period for a Direct Loan). A late disbursement is made after the student is no longer enrolled for the award year (or drops below half time for a Direct Loan). View the full answer to this question to learn more and search for answers to your other pressing regulatory and compliance questions in NASFAA's AskRegs Knowledgebase.

Yes. Under normal circumstances, if a school is going to be the repository of a signature related to the completion of a FAFSA, the school would be required to maintain an original signature page with an original (“wet”) signature in the student’s file. However, according to guidance NASFAA has received from the U.S. Department of Education (ED), the school may accept a copy of a signature page for FAFSA completion purposes if both of the following conditions are met: a student or parent is unable to create an FSA ID; and the student or parent cannot print a signature page or deliver an original wet signature to an institution in a timely manner (e.g., office closures, inability to access a printer, undeliverable international mail, etc.) due to circumstances related to COVID-19. View the full answer to this question to learn more and search for answers to your other pressing regulatory and compliance questions in NASFAA's AskRegs Knowledgebase.

For the only time in 2021, NASFAA U is offering the Federal Pell Grant & IASG online course, starting tomorrow, February 9. NASFAA U instructors will bring participants an overview of the federal Pell Grant and Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant (IASG) programs. You'll learn how to select the appropriate formula for term-based and non-term-based programs, how to calculate remaining eligibility, the ground rules for required and optional Pell Grant recalculations, and how to determine eligibility for "year-round" Pell Grant. This course is the perfect learning tool for all levels of financial aid professionals, designed to provide the necessary tools and subject matter expertise to the Pell Grant and IASG programs. Upon passing the course, you will receive complimentary access to the credential test. Register now.

What's the best way to get ready to take the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Program Knowledge Exam? Informed preparation focused on closing any knowledge gaps. Begin with a realistic self-evaluation of what you already know based on your training and experience, using the Exam Content Outline in the Candidate Handbook. Focus your review on topics where you feel less confident or you've had minimal first-hand experience, using the recommended resources. Download the new beta version of the Exam Preparation Guide, which will be complimentary through June 30, 2021. Watch for additional training opportunities sponsored by regional and state associations. You could even form your own study group. Gain even greater confidence through informed preparation and you'll be ready on exam day!

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