The Financial Aid Process for Military Students
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1. File your FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is the key to determining your federal financial aid eligibility.
The financial information you provide will determine how much aid you may qualify for and what types of funding you may be eligible to receive.
Federal Student Aid has an award year that runs from July 1st to June 30th. The FAFSA has a 21-month application cycle that begins on October 1st, nine months before the start of the award year, and ends on June 30th, the last day of the award year. This application is available online at the Federal Student Aid website (studentaid.gov/fafsa).
2. Understand your military education benefits
AIU recommends reviewing the VA's tools and guides for information on the various VA Education Programs. In addition, we recommend speaking with your Education Officer, or reviewing your military branch’s tuition assistance policy. Also, if you are a spouse of a member of the military, you should review the MyCAA program to see if you might qualify for assistance.
3. Get to know the various types of financial aid available
While your FAFSA is being processed, take some time to read up on the different types of financial aid available to help fund your degree. This can help you get ready to talk with your Financial Aid Advisor and feel confident about the aid package you discuss.
Getting a handle on your options now can make a big difference later on.
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4. Talk with an AIU Military Financial Aid Advisor
AIU's Military Financial Aid Advisors will review your Financial Aid and Military Education Benefits with you. An advisor will also walk you through your award letter and be available throughout the aid process. They can:
- Help you with paperwork
- Explain your aid package
- Remind you of upcoming deadlines
- Answer questions
Other Forms You May Need to Complete
- Master Promissory Note (MPN)
- Authorization to Retain Funds
- Entrance Counseling Quiz
- Responsible Borrower Election Form
- Verification documents, if applicable
5. See if you qualify for AIU grants and scholarships and apply
AIU offers a variety of grants and scholarships for AIU Online, AIU Atlanta and AIU Houston students. See our grants and scholarships guide for more details.
AIU has also established some grants and scholarships specifically for active-duty military members, veterans and their families. Eligibility for AIU's military grants is determined by your military branch and the Veteran's Administration. See the University Catalog for full details and conditions.
Your award letter will include the grants you may be eligible for, based on your admission application and your FAFSA.
6. Apply for outside grants and scholarships
Since most grants and scholarships typically do not need to be paid back, they’re well worth the time it takes to apply.
Keep in mind that outside grants and scholarships operate on their own schedules, and funds you qualify for may not be immediately available.
Financial aid is available for those who qualify. University grants and scholarships are based on established criteria as published in the University Catalog and are awarded after verification that the conditions of eligibility have been met.
Classes Start October 25, 2023