After spending weeks trying to resolve a similar issue, I finally got through to a helpful FAFSA representative who explained that there are actually two separate problems happening: 1. The general FAFSA processing delays affecting everyone 2. Specific IRS-to-FAFSA data transfer delays affecting some applicants You're dealing with #2, which unfortunately takes longer to resolve. However, the rep confirmed that schools can absolutely process a provisional aid package based on tax transcripts while waiting for the official data transfer. They recommended submitting: - IRS Tax Return Transcript - W-2 forms - A signed statement explaining the situation Based on my experience, I'd strongly recommend not signing the current loan-only package without an explicit written agreement from the school about adjustment once the tax data transfers. Most financial aid offices understand this situation is not your fault.

I'm dealing with this exact same situation right now! My daughter's FAFSA has been stuck since February with the IRS data transfer issue. After reading all these responses, I wanted to share what finally worked for us yesterday. I called the financial aid office and specifically asked to speak with someone about "FAFSA processing delays due to IRS data transfer issues" - using those exact words seemed to get me transferred to someone who actually knew what they were talking about. They immediately offered to process a provisional package based on our tax transcript and said they've been doing this for dozens of families this cycle. The key was being very specific about the problem rather than just saying "my FAFSA is delayed." They also mentioned that the Department of Education has given schools specific guidance on handling these cases, so if your school isn't being helpful, you might want to escalate or reference that guidance directly. Don't give up!

I'm a newcomer here but wanted to share something that might help - I recently learned that some colleges have emergency aid funds that they don't widely publicize. These are often for exactly situations like yours where there's an unexpected gap in funding. When you meet with financial aid for your appeal, specifically ask if they have any emergency grants or completion funds available. Also, I've heard that timing can matter with appeals - if you can get your appeal in before other families do (like right now), there may be more institutional aid available in their discretionary funds. Some schools also have alumni emergency scholarship funds that kick in later in the process. Your plan to consider the branch campus option shows really smart financial planning. Many students don't realize that the first two years of coursework are often identical regardless of which campus you attend, but the cost savings can be huge.

I'm new to this community but wanted to share what worked for us in a similar situation. My daughter faced a $12k gap last year, and we were also denied for Parent PLUS. Here's what ultimately helped us close most of the gap: 1. The additional unsubsidized loan for PLUS denial gave us $4,000 more 2. We found a local credit union that offered student loans at much better rates than the private lenders the school suggested 3. Her school had a "gap grant" program specifically for families caught between middle-class income and actual ability to pay - we had to ask three different people before someone mentioned it 4. We set up a payment plan for the remaining balance, which made it more manageable The key was being persistent and asking very specific questions. Don't just accept the first "no" - keep asking about different types of institutional aid. Also, if your daughter has any special talents (art, music, leadership, etc.), some departments have small scholarships that aren't tied to the main financial aid office. Wishing you the best with your appeal process!

Quick tip: Make sure you check your spam/junk folders regularly! My daughter almost missed her financial aid offer from her top choice because it got filtered to spam. Also, create a spreadsheet to compare offers when they come in - they use different formats and it can get confusing fast. We tracked: total cost, grants/scholarships (free money), work-study, subsidized loans, unsubsidized loans, and expected family contribution for each school. Made the final decision much easier!

Congrats on getting your SAI! As someone who just went through this process last year, here's what I wish I'd known: Yes, the FAFSA data gets sent automatically to your schools, but I'd recommend being proactive. Create a checklist with each school and their financial aid deadlines, then check their student portals weekly. Some schools needed additional verification documents we weren't expecting. Also, don't panic if your SAI seems high - schools have different institutional aid policies, so you might still get decent packages. The waiting is the hardest part, but most families start seeing award letters 2-6 weeks after SAI is processed. You've got this!

After reading all the comments, I'd recommend just a quick call to your financial aid office to confirm everything is on track. It sounds like the process is working as intended, but peace of mind is worth a phone call. Ask specifically if both the Direct loans and Parent PLUS loan are still active in the system and when you should expect to see them reflected in her account. Most schools have all aid finalized about 1-2 weeks before tuition deadlines.

As someone who just went through this process with my daughter last semester, I can confirm what others have said - accepting the subsidized/unsubsidized loans absolutely will NOT affect your Parent PLUS loan approval! These are completely separate loan programs. The sub/unsub loans are federal student aid that goes directly to your daughter, while the PLUS loan is a separate parent loan. Schools actually expect students to use their Direct loans first before parents take out PLUS loans to cover the remaining gap. The timing you're experiencing is totally normal - I didn't see both loans reflected together in our portal until about 10 days before the tuition deadline. Don't stress, you're on the right track!

Any update on your situation? Were you able to get through to financial aid?

That's such great news! I'm so glad you were able to get it resolved. It's crazy how a simple processing error can cause so much stress and confusion. Your story will definitely help other families who might run into the same issue - knowing to specifically ask about being marked as "not interested in federal loans" could save someone a lot of headache. Good luck with the appeal process for additional aid based on your current income situation!