FAQ
A page within It Make$ Cents!
What is the deadline for applying for financial aid?
- 2021–22 Academic Year
-
- FAFSA® forms must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central time (CT) on June 30, 2022. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on Sept. 10, 2022.
- 2022–23 Academic Year
-
- Opens October 1, 2021
- FAFSA® forms must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central time (CT) on June 30, 2023. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on Sept. 10, 2023.
What is the process for applying for financial aid?
- The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov. Be sure to include UWL’s school code (003919) on the FAFSA. Once UWL receives the FAFSA, the Financial Aid Office will send the student an e-mail as to whether our office may need additional documentation.
What are the different types of federal aid?
- The types of federal aid offered, from most to least helpful, are: grants, subsidized loans, unsubsidized loans, and Parent PLUS loans. Check out https://www.uwlax.edu/it-makes-cents/affording-college/#tab-13068 for more information
When do I have to start repaying loans?
- For most types of federal student loans, you have 6 months after graduation before you must begin making payments. This gives you time to save money and select a repayment plan.
Where can I check my federal student loan balance?
- To view all of your federal loans, interest rates and the current holder of the loan and the contact information for that servicer, log in to https://studentaid.gov/
Where do I find scholarships?
- The UWL Foundation Scholarships are the best way to get scholarships as a UWL student. The Scholarship Resource Center is also a great resource for finding additional scholarships. Fill out their Get Scholarific Survey to be matched with hand-picked scholarships fitting your unique characteristics, or schedule a consultation for essay writing and scholarship research help!
How do I make a resume?
- We recommend making a resume from scratch rather than pasting info into an online template. Although the peer mentors at IMC! would be happy to review your resume, the folks at the Career Services Center are best suited to help you begin the resume making process.
How do I save money?
- Budgeting is the most important tool for saving money in the short and long term. Check out https://www.uwlax.edu/it-makes-cents/online-tools/#tab-budgeting for more information.
Where do I begin with budgeting?
- The first step is tracking your expenses. Keep track of 1-2 months worth of income & expenses, separating them into categories such as food, entertainment, utilities, transportation, etc. Once you have done that, check out our budgeting tools at https://www.uwlax.edu/it-makes-cents/online-tools/#tab-budgeting. Feel free to schedule a consultation with a peer mentor to help with formulating your budget!
How do I invest money?
- Considering the risks inherent in investing, we recommend that students prioritize paying off student loans first. If you would still like to invest, check out the “investing” tab on our website.
What can IMC! help me with?
- Any financial questions you may have! Whether you are looking to start a budget, get into investing, pay off your student loans, get a credit card, or even just chat with someone you can trust, our peer mentors are happy to help with any issue that may arise. Odds are if it involves money, we can help. Schedule a free consultation at https://itmakescents.setmore.com/
What is the cost of attendance at UWL?
- The average cost of attendance, including room and board, food, and tuition, for an on-campus Wisconsin resident is about $16,000. Check out https://www.uwlax.edu/cost/ for more information.
How do I find places to live off-campus?
- Check out https://www.uwlax.edu/it-makes-cents/affording-college/#tab-off-campus-housing for great resources on off-campus housing!
How do I afford food when living off campus?
- UWL offers a food pantry for all students, as well as dining plans for off-campus students. Check out https://www.uwlax.edu/it-makes-cents/affording-college/#tab-food for more information.
How do I get a credit card?
- Getting a credit card is a relatively simple process. Before you accept the first offer that you come across, it’s smart to look at all of your options and compare cards online. NerdWallet offers this service for free on their website. The UW Credit Union and most other financial institutions also offer credit cards.
How do I afford a car?
- Due to the size and convenience of La Crosse, a car is not necessary for most students who are living on campus. If you decide that a vehicle is necessary, the following resources will help you prepare to purchase a car during your time in college.
- Buying a Used Car covers using online research, the Buyers Guide, a vehicle history report, and an independent inspection to be sure you know what you’re getting before you buy.
- Spotting Deceptive Car Ads warns that some car ads promise low payments, no interest, or zero down – but might come with a catch. Researching a dealer’s reputation before visiting the dealership can help you steer clear of problems.
- Financing a Car encourages you to shop for financing before shopping for a car, and bring your best offer with you to the dealer.
- Understanding Car Add-ons talks about price-hiking products that dealers may offer after you’ve negotiated a car price and arranged financing.