Georgia Student Financial Aid Application System

(GSFAPPS)

Primary Means of applying for financial aid Scholarships Grants Service Cancelable Loans

Replaces multiple paper-based and e-HOPE/ e-TEG applications 24 separate applications/renewal applications Multiple deadline dates

GSFAPPS Introduction

Key Considerations:

Electronic interface

Security

Accuracy

Accelerated processing

Positive feedback

GSFAPPS Considerations

Key Features:

Web-based, with option to print a paper application

Real-time, on-line edits

Pre-populate fields where possible

Ability to suspend application and return

GSFAPPS Features

Key Features (continued):

Branches to obtain program unique data

Built-in HELP throughout

Ability to review application and print

Provides a list of follow-up documents

Email confirmations and notifications

GSFAPPS Features (continued)

Simplify and standardize Application Forms Submittal dates

Centralize eligibility checks at GSFC GSFC to create eligibility verification process Schools only certify relative to:

– Enrollment, course load, GPA, hours, etc.

Reduced workload on Schools

GSFAPPS Benefits

Discussions Underway with CPS Vendor (NCS Pearson)

Can provide data matching within 48hrs with US Selective Service US Department of Justice NSLDS US Immigration US Social Security College Board US Department of Defense Office of Foreign Asset Control

Centralized Eligibility Checks

Have contacted following GA Agencies

• GA Dept of Revenue for GA Residency & Dependency• GA Dept of Motor Vehicles for GA Drivers License• GA Dept of Education for Teaching Certifications

Georgia residency is a key eligibility check

Some checks are one-time, some recurring

• US Department of Justice (Drug Conviction) • NSLDS (Loan Default)• Office of Foreign Asset Control (Terrorist-Related)

Centralized Eligibility Checks (continued)

Careful design & testing by GSFC

Conducting Working Group Sessions

• Deborah Barbone, No. Georgia Col & State University• Janis Bowles, Columbus State University• Jean Dobson, Emory University• Lenora Jackson, Spelman College• Susan Little, University of Georgia• Rich Loftus, University System of Georgia• Andy Parsons, Dept of Technical & Adult Education• Pennie Strong, Central Georgia Technical College• Vincent Walters, Gwinnett Technical College• Robin Winston, DeVry University

GSFAPPS Implementation

Will be conducting state-wide implementation workshops

Implement for “new” (first-time) applicants

Current recipients “grandfathered”

GSFAPPS Implementation (continued)

Communication & Training

March: GSFC Conferences

May: Demo to GSFC Staff

June: GASFAA Spring Conference

June – Oct: On Going Activities of GSFC Newsletter GACollege411 Activities GSFC Web Site

GSFAPPS Implementation (continued)

Communication & Training

August: System Training for GSFC Staff

Sept: PROBE Counselor Workshops

PROBE Student Fairs

GSFC Mailing to Schools

Half-day Workshops

(Savannah, Macon, Albany, Dalton, Atlanta)

October: Implementation & Press-release

GSFAPPS Implementation (continued)

Applicant

Access GSFAPPS as a registered user of www.GACollege411.com

Follow on-line instructions to complete application and submit

Mail supplemental/supporting documents, if required

To Use GSFAPPS

Colleges & UniversitiesMust have submitted a School Academic Data Template (details on

next slide)

Exchange data files via SURFER or update student data on-line

Certify certain data as accurate

Certification reporting for HOPE funds via submission of an invoice

To Use GSFAPPS (continued)

Electronic data entry screen

Ability to update school information on-line

One form for all programs

Schools submit annually, by June 1st, for next academic year

Provides specific date data required by GSFAPPS

School Academic Data Template