Navigating ODU's financial aid - any tips?

Yo, has anyone here dealt with Old Dominion University (ODU) financial aid process? I need some firsthand information. Did you find the process easy or was it a hassle? Any advice would be dope!

Hey there! I'm glad that you're gearing up to tackle the financial aid process at Old Dominion University (ODU). Although I've not been through the specific process at ODU, I've worked with many students who have, and I can assure you that the process is quite manageable.

First and foremost, remember to complete the FAFSA on time. It's key to making sure you receive as much aid as possible. ODU's priority deadline for the FAFSA typically in early February, so make sure to submit yours before then. The FAFSA uses your family's financial information to calculate the Student Aid Index (SAI), which ODU uses to determine your need-based financial aid.

Pro-tip: Make sure to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool, which can help you populate your tax return data directly into your FAFSA - it's a real time-saver!

Secondly, apply for scholarships! In addition to federal and state aid, ODU offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Check out Monarch Scholarship, for example, which is a merit-based scholarship that ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 annually. Besides this, ODU has the Robert C. Nusbaum Honors College, which provides incoming students with several scholarship opportunities.

ODU also offers a variety of departmental scholarships. So, if you have a specific major or department in mind, be sure to look for scholarships in that area.

Remember, the key to the whole process is staying organized and meeting the deadlines. So mark your calendar, set reminders, and follow up on your applications.

Best of luck with your financial aid application at ODU! You're taking the right steps by asking questions and seeking advice.